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Job hunting can be a challenging and competitive process, but with the right approach, you can increase your chances of success. It’s important to be aware of common mistakes that can hinder your
- Neglecting to customize
your resume andcover letter . - Failing to research the company.
- Overlooking networking opportunities.
- Applying for jobs you’re not qualified for.
- Neglecting your online presence.
- Lack of follow-up.
Only applying to vacancies
Just because a company isn’t advertising vacancies doesn’t mean you can’t still inquire about job opportunities. Some highly competitive companies never advertise due to the influx of applications they receive. They might not need to post job ads.
Additionally, you can gain an advantage by applying early to companies considering new hires, before they even advertise. Take the initiative to contact desired employers directly via
Lying on your application
Lying about your identity or your prior experience on your resume to a potential employer is never a good move. Nowadays, many employers use an identity verification service to check that an applicant is who they say they are – this makes it harder to get away with lying. If anything, you’ll feel terrible for lying and won’t feel that you’ve achieved anything if you do end up getting hired as it will all be based on false merit.
Job hunting? Avoid these 7 common mistakes like a pro! Learn how to ace your search and land your dream job with this must-read blog post. Don't let these pitfalls hold you back! #jobsearch #careeradvice #successguaranteedClick To TweetProviding too much information
While you shouldn’t lie on
Giving no evidence of skills
It’s also possible to give too little information. Cliched jargon such as ‘good
Not securing references
References can help employers trust you more by providing proof that you’re a great person to work with. Try to secure references from past employers and influential people in your life so that you can offer these to employers if they request them. You could even create a digital portfolio and list your references as testimonials.
Dressing inappropriately for the interview
When it comes to the interview, dressing the part is important. Obviously, you don’t want to dress too informally – this will give the impression that you’re not serious about the role. However, you also don’t want to overdress for the role – wearing a suit to a job interview at a hip design company might make you come across as too conservative for the role. Always ask about the dress code beforehand so that you know exactly how to compose yourself.
“Cover letters might sound like that last thing you want to produce, especially in an age when all it takes to apply for a job is a few clicks. Nevertheless, when most candidates share a common background, your cover letter can make the difference between another resume in the pile and a promising candidate. Your cover letter is necessary; it is designed to catch the attention of a Recruiter. ” – 8 Things That Differentiate You From Other Candidates
Not following up
Once you’ve had your interview, make sure to follow up if you don’t hear anything in the next few days. Following up after an interview shows that you’re keen and an employer could be more likely to look upon you favorably. Obviously, you shouldn’t keep harassing an employer to find out if you’ve been hired, but a single follow-up generally won’t hurt.
Additional Resources
The 2-Hour Job Search : Using Technology to Get the Right Job Faster
The 2-Hour Job Search by Steve Dalton is a practical guide to using technology to streamline the
Use the latest technology to target potential employers and secure the first interview--no matter your experience, education, or network--with these revised and updated tools and recommendations.
Cracking the Hidden Job Market: How to Find Opportunity in Any Economy
Cracking the Hidden Job Market by Donald Asher is a great resource for anyone looking to uncover job openings that are not publicly advertised. The book offers strategies for networking and tapping into the “hidden job market,” where many job openings are filled through personal connections rather than online job postings. It also provides advice on how to tailor your
The key to success in the current job market is breaking through to the hidden job market. Over half of all jobs go to someone who did not apply to a posted opening at all. What are they doing and how are they doing it? They’re finding new jobs before the posting hits the Internet.
The Art of Possibility: Transforming Professional and Personal Life
The Art of Possibility by Rosamund Stone Zander and Benjamin Zander is not specifically about job searching, but it offers valuable insights that can help job seekers approach the process with a positive and creative mindset. The book offers practical advice on overcoming obstacles and achieving goals, with a focus on the power of imagination and creativity.
Discover the twelve breakthrough practices for bringing creativity and a sense of possibility into all of your endeavors in this bestselling guide from the author of Pathways to Possibility
Knock ’em Dead: The Ultimate Job Search Guide
Knock ’em Dead by Martin Yate is a comprehensive guide to the
Get Hired!: Winning Strategies to Ace the Interview
Get Hired! by Paul C. Green is another great resource for
Packed with inside advice and secrets about what companies look for when hiring in today's competitive job market.
