Why You’re Not Getting Interviews—and How to Fix It
By Career counseling, Resume and Interview Tips

You’ve applied to multiple jobs in the Outdoor Power Equipment (OPE) industry, but your inbox is eerily quiet. No callbacks, no interviews—just silence. It’s frustrating, but the good news is that you can take steps to turn things around.

If you’re not hearing back after applying, the issue might not be your qualifications but how you’re approaching the job search. Here’s why you might not be getting interviews—and, more importantly, how to fix it.

1. Your Resume Isn’t Doing You Justice

Your resume is your first impression, and if it doesn’t clearly communicate your skills and experience, it may be getting overlooked.

Common Resume Issues:

  • Too Generic: A one-size-fits-all resume won’t stand out. Hiring managers want to see a resume tailored to the specific role.
  • Lack of Keywords: Many employers use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen resumes. If yours doesn’t include the right keywords, it might not even make it to a human reviewer.
  • Poor Formatting: A cluttered or hard-to-read resume can quickly land in the “no” pile.

How to Fix It:

  • Tailor your resume for each job by highlighting relevant skills and experience.
  • Use industry-specific keywords like “small engine repair,” “diagnostics,” or “customer service.”
  • Keep the format clean and professional with clear headings and bullet points.

Real-World Tip:
“One of the biggest mistakes I see is candidates listing irrelevant experience instead of focusing on transferable skills. Highlight what makes you a fit for the role,” says a hiring manager at a Midwest OPE dealership.

2. You’re Not Following Up

Applying for a job isn’t a “set it and forget it” process. Following up shows initiative and keeps your application top of mind for hiring managers.

Why Follow-Up Matters:

  • It demonstrates genuine interest in the role.
  • It gives you an opportunity to reiterate your qualifications.
  • It helps you stand out in a sea of applicants.

How to Fix It:

  • Send a polite email or make a quick phone call 5–7 days after submitting your application.
  • Keep it professional and brief. For example:
    “Hello [Hiring Manager’s Name], I recently applied for the [Position Name] role at [Company Name]. I’m very excited about the opportunity and would love to discuss how my skills align with your needs. Please let me know if there’s any additional information I can provide. Thank you for your time!”

Real-World Tip:
“Candidates who follow up professionally always stand out to me. It shows they’re serious about the position,” shares a hiring manager from an OPE dealership in Texas.

3. You’re Applying to the Wrong Roles

If you’re consistently applying to jobs that don’t align with your skills or experience, it’s no surprise you’re not hearing back. Employers are looking for candidates who closely match their requirements.

How to Fix It:

  • Be Realistic: Focus on roles where you meet at least 70–80% of the qualifications.
  • Read the Job Description Carefully: Look for key requirements like certifications, years of experience, or specific technical skills.
  • Start with Entry-Level Roles: If you’re new to the industry, apply for positions that offer on-the-job training or don’t require extensive experience.

Real-World Tip:
“We often get applications from people who don’t have the certifications or experience we need. If you’re missing a key qualification, address it in your cover letter and explain how you plan to bridge the gap,” advises an OPE hiring manager in Florida.

4. Your Application Isn’t Standing Out

In a competitive job market, it’s not enough to just meet the qualifications—you need to show why you’re the best fit.

How to Fix It:

  • Write a compelling cover letter that highlights your enthusiasm for the role and how your skills align with the company’s needs.
  • Include measurable achievements on your resume. For example:
    “Increased repair efficiency by 20% by implementing a new diagnostic process.”
  • Research the company and personalize your application to show you understand their goals and values.

Real-World Tip:
“Candidates who take the time to research our dealership and mention specific things about our company in their application always catch my attention,” says a hiring manager from a leading OPE service center.

Final Thoughts

Not hearing back after applying can be discouraging, but it’s often a sign that small tweaks are needed in your approach. By improving your resume, following up professionally, targeting the right roles, and making your application stand out, you can increase your chances of landing interviews and securing the job you want.

Ready to start applying? Visit OPEjobs.com to find opportunities tailored to the OPE industry and take the next step in your career!