Looking for a new job is hard. It takes a great deal of effort, concentration and work. From recent college graduates to experienced professionals, many people tend to make the same mistakes, making the search for their new job harder than it has to be. Check out these 5 common mistakes that job seekers make and how to avoid them!
1. Job searching without a plan
Your search for a new career should not consist of blasting your resume to every open position that interests you. Many candidates feel that getting their resume to every company and applying to any position within their field will increase their odds of getting hired, it won’t.
Carefully mapping out a plan with target companies, finding connections in those organizations and then choosing a specific career path with positions you’re qualified for is the right way to increase your odds of getting hired. Resume blasting will most likely lead you to dead ends. Making lasting connections and having a clear objective are incredibly important.
2. Submitting a one size fits all resume
Do not use the same resume for every application. Instead, customize your resume for each position by comparing the relevant keywords in the job posting to those in your resume. Customizing your resume will help a recruiter match your skills to the skills they are looking for and increase your chance of a phone call or an interview. When a recruiter searches a network like LinkedIn, they use the skills they are looking for as keywords and if you don’t include this in your resume or profile, you won’t be found.
3. Not utilizing your online presence
From LinkedIn to Twitter, your connections should know that you’re looking for a new job (as long as you aren’t currently employed.) The more people that know, the better chance you have to make connections with people and network with their connections. If your LinkedIn profile isn’t updated, recruiters may think you’re still employed and could pass you by. Don’t be shy, that’s why LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter are called social networks, so use them to the fullest potential!
4. Being unprepared
Being prepared for interviews is one of the most important things you can do to help your job search. Research the company you’re interviewing at, learn about the person conducting the interview if you can, practice tough interview questions and be able to speak about your experience clearly and confidently.
5. Not following up
Whether it be an interview or a networking meeting, make sure to follow up with a simple email or phone call to thank the individual for their time. This will allow them to remember you and create the opportunity for another meeting in the future. Keep the door open and find ways to be helpful to everyone in your network.
Already kicked these bad habits? Check out our current openings and apply today!
