The 7 Deadly Sins of Job Seeking

Job searching is by no means an easy task, however it’s important to avoid the most common pitfalls during your job search to increase your chances of landing the role you desire. You might start to have feelings of frustration and exhaustion, but remaining positive and staying focused is crucial. In order to have the best chances during your job search, it’s important you avoid falling victim to these seven career-killing mistakes:

Recruiting Sin #7: Applying for Jobs You’re Not Qualified For

Don’t assume you need to fulfill 100% of the job requirements that are listed, however you need to know how to make the right call on whether you you’d be a good candidate or if you’re underqualified. For instance, if the job requires a degree in Marketing, and you don’t have one, but you do have 10+ years of Marketing experience, then it might be worth sending a resume. However, if the job requires 10+ years of experience and you’ve only had one, then it’s probably best to move along. It’s crucial to read the job description and look at your qualifications before determining whether you’d be perfect for the role. Don’t waste a company’s time by applying for a job knowing there’s a 99% chance you wouldn’t get it.

Recruiting Sin #6: Failing to Utilize Social Media

Social media is a great way to get your face out there and network. The more people that know you are in search of a job, the better chance you have at making connections with the right people that may be able to help you. LinkedIn is the most crucial social media platform when it comes to your job search. Be sure you keep your LinkedIn profile up to date and make it obvious that you are searching for employment.

Recruiting Sin #5: Showcasing your responsibilities instead of your results

When looking for candidates, organizations want to know how you made the company you previously worked for better than it was before, not just what you were responsible for. Using performance statistics demonstrates that you contributed to the company and highlights your achievements. For example, rather than describing what your role was as a sales lead, discuss how you boosted sales by 10%. Hard evidence of your successes will benefit your chances and bring you to the forefront.

Recruiting Sin #4: Not Having a Well-Rounded Resume

One of the initial steps when applying for jobs is submitting your resume in hopes that this will put you in the running as a possible candidate. It’s important to take the time to ensure it is not only professional, but accurately depicts your experience and accomplishments. In order to have a well-rounded resume, be sure to avoid any typos or grammatical errors, keep it concise and to the point, and have someone else look it over for accuracy. Taking the time to perfect your resume will stand out to a potential employer and land you an interview.

Recruiting Sin #3: Skipping the Cover Letter

Your cover letter allows you the opportunity to include information you otherwise wouldn’t be able to in your resume. It also allows you to explain why you would be the right fit for the role you are applying for and what compels you to work for the company. Without this personal connection, you risk being overlooked. It takes time, but having a tailored cover letter and resume will ultimately pay off.

Recruiting Sin #2: Neglecting to Follow Up

Interviewers want to know that you are interested and eager for the position. Neglecting to send a thank you note or a follow up email may give the impression that you are no longer interested in the position and cause the employer to look elsewhere.

Recruiting Sin #1: Being Unprepared for Your Interview

Being prepared for your interview is one of, if not, the most important thing you can do to help your job search. Be sure you show up well dressed, on time, and prepared to both answer and ask questions. Showing up unprepared will demonstrate to the interviewer that you don’t take it seriously. If you can’t show up to the interview prepared, how do you expect the interviewer to believe you would be any different once hired? Interviewing candidates takes a lot of time, preparation, and energy, therefore they deserve the same effort in return – especially if you hope to get the job.

Avoid these common mistakes job seekers often make, and spend adequate time doing your job search the right way. Cutting corners, and doing things the easy route will only hurt your chances at landing a position in the long run. While it may seem tedious, slow and steady always wins the race.