Struggling to Land HR Roles with 5 Years Experience: Why Aren't Recruiters Responding?

I am looking to make a job change in the HR domain. I have 5 years of experience in HR generalist roles with a manufacturing MNC. Despite my efforts, I have not received any positive responses. I have been submitting separate applications for each position and following up as well. However, my resume has not been shortlisted at all. I kindly request all members to assist me in understanding the current market situation and recruitment processes. I have noticed that most recruiters often open emails and during phone conversations simply say, "will check and come back to you," without providing further details.

I know this situation is overwhelming and often builds up anxiety. Nevertheless, there are greener pastures ahead! So relax, you are going to be okay.

Job Application Strategy

Answer me a few things: Are you applying for jobs within manufacturing units only? Which city are you currently working in, and where are you applying for jobs? Can you brief me on all the activities you have worked on in the generalist profile?

The market situation is not all that great at the moment, and in the HR domain, the cut-throat competition makes the situation even worse. There are so many applications recruiters receive that often further shortlisting of relevant candidates is done based on experience, CTC expected, stability, and even at times proximity to the workplace.

Exploring New Opportunities

I suggest you keep applying the way you have been until now; who knows, you might land a lucrative offer. Apart from this, are you ready to consider changing the industry? (In case you are too desperate to change.) Are you applying to jobs directly on the job portals or to the hiring managers of the company, or have you considered sharing your CV with consultants also? Generally, they might have something better for you. Try and choose consultants who specialize in recruitments in the industry you are seeking. Are you using LinkedIn to the best of its ability? Keep sharing your CV with the companies.

Resume and Specialization

Also, do research on whether the way you have built up your resume is professional enough and gives a proper window into your job responsibilities. Again, research where in your profile you are lacking pertaining to the industry you are serving. Are you also considering specialization in a certain area in HR? This is because companies are hiring HR Business Partners who can work strategically in one area. For example, PMS, Talent Acquisition, Employee Engagement, Training & Development, etc. In case you are called for interviews, go attend them; it could help you understand the current scenario a lot.

Good luck!

Regards

Thank you so much for your kind support and information. I am working as a Senior HR Executive with a Japanese MNC company (New Setup) since September '14. I have a generalist role, including recruitment, policy making and implementation, payroll, performance management system (PMS), legal compliance related to the factory, training and development, and general administration such as employee welfare and engagement activities.

I am working in Neemrana, Rajasthan, and looking for a change to the Delhi/NCR area. You're right, as I have almost 5 years of manufacturing experience but am now looking for new opportunities in manufacturing industries or elsewhere. I have had good stability in my career but still feel I have the potential to learn more.

From an HR point of view, my drawback is low networking. That's why I am struggling more and sometimes lack the latest updates and trends. I am now taking the initiative to build my network and establish healthy relationships with professionals who share the same interests through this group. I really hope and trust that I will surely receive support and guidance.

Regards,

I am working for a public limited company for the past 4 years, and this is my first company since completing my MBA in HR. I started my career in recruitment, handling end-to-end recruitment processes, conducting induction programs, and managing all documentation for new hires. Later, in addition to recruitment, I began managing administrative tasks such as the canteen, flight ticket and vehicle bookings, stationary supplies, and vendor management. I also took on payroll responsibilities without using any software. In payroll, I handle leaves, exits, new joiners, ESIC, and any arrears, and all this data is sent to a third party for processing.

Currently, the company's situation is challenging, and the management has informed employees to start looking for new opportunities. I have also begun my job search, informing my friends, contacting consultancies, and exploring various job portals. However, the responses I have received so far have been disappointing. Despite attending a few interviews, I have not secured a new job yet.

I would appreciate it if you could advise me on where I may be falling short, what changes I should consider, or any improvements that are needed. Please provide me with concise feedback on this matter. I am looking forward to your positive response.