In the grueling marathon of a modern job search, one Reddit user found success by prioritizing speed over perfection, using a “spray and pray” approach that challenges conventional wisdom. By applying broadly and quickly with a few solid resume variants, they landed an IT job in just three months, ending an eight-month drought.

The strategy, shared on a subreddit, advises job seekers to apply to new postings as quickly as possible, as many companies shortlist candidates from the first few resumes they receive. By having multiple resume templates ready and applying broadly, applicants can increase their chances of being in the first batch of applicants seen by hiring managers.

The post resonated with many, exposing the reality of the recruiting world where speed can often trump customization. Former hiring managers affirmed the strategy, noting that most applicant tracking systems work on a first-in, first-out basis. By streamlining the job application process and being prepared to apply quickly, job seekers can increase their chances of being noticed by potential employers.

The key takeaway for job seekers is to focus on speed and readiness when applying for jobs. By having a few solid resume templates ready to go and applying to new postings promptly, applicants can position themselves to be among the first batch of candidates seen by hiring managers, increasing their chances of securing interviews and job offers.

Read more at finance.yahoo.com: The ‘Spray and Pray’ Strategy That Finally This Job Seeker Landed An IT Job