why are so many unqualified candidates applying for the job we advertised?

A reader writes:

I am about to make my first hire. We posted the job a couple of days ago. The job is semi-specialized work with specific qualifications. The job description clearly says cover letter and resume.

Of the many applications I’ve received, one, maybe two, indicate that they’ve read the application before applying. The others appear to be following a job search plan that is along the lines of “throw spaghetti at the wall and see what sticks” – ranging from generic cover letters that don’t mention either the name of the employer or the job itself (if there’s a cover letter) to resumes that show nothing in the form of meeting requirements.

Is this really a common job hunt strategy? Is it fallout from unemployment and a bit of desperation on the part of job-seekers, or are people just getting bad advice, and not figuring out what works for them?

I answer this question — and two others — over at Inc. today, where I’m revisiting letters that have been buried in the archives here from years ago (and sometimes updating/expanding my answers to them). You can read it here.

Other questions I’m answering there today include:

• Should I not say “my team”?
• How to explain interviewing for a new job after working for yourself

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