6 Mistakes to Avoid While Searching For Your Next Job
The job search is often daunting and full of disappointment. However, it doesn't have to be that way. By avoiding some of the most common resume mistakes, you can improve the results of your job hunt. If you're doing any of the following, you could be sabotaging the job hunt.
1. You Don't Have a Target
When you start the job search, you should have a specific job or goal in mind. Without specifics, the job search will be all over the place. You won't be able to focus on searching for the job you want or need.
Before you start the job search, think about your dream job. What is the title? Ideally, you will have between one and three jobs to search for. If you have any more than that, you will have too broad of a search. You'll end up applying for too many jobs, which could be a waste of your time and energy.
In addition to helping you find jobs to apply for, having a target also helps you with your resume. You can edit your resume to include the responsibilities you want to take on, and to showcase why you're a fit for the specific role. Without this targeted approach, you would need to edit your resume for every job listing.
Having a focus makes the job search much easier. As you search, resist the temptation to apply for every job you come across. In the end, a targeted approach will pay off.
2. You're Applying to Multiple Jobs with One Company
Similar to the mistake listed above, applying for too many jobs will hurt your chances of employment. While it's crucial to apply for as many jobs that fit your wants and needs, you need to be cautious.
For one, don't apply to multiple jobs with the same company. This shows desperation and lets hiring managers know that you don't have a passion for one particular job. By applying for multiple jobs with the same business, you actually hurt your chance of receiving an interview.
If you see multiple jobs listed by an employer, read each job listing. Then, think about what you want from your career. Pick the job that will best allow you to accomplish your career goals.
3. You Haven't Done Your Research
Before you send in an application to an employer, take the time to research the company. If you know who you're applying to work for, you can create a resume and cover letter that grabs interest.
When calling in people for interviews, hiring managers don't have much information to make their decision. They look at resumes and cover letters, and often struggle to find a way to differentiate one candidate from another. Your research into the business could be what makes you stand out.
In your cover letter, showcase your knowledge about the company. You could mention something about their company culture, their goals, or their achievements. Be sure to explain how you tie into the information you found. In doing so, you make your cover letter unique. You also show the hiring manager that you're passionate enough about the position to research it.
As an added benefit, researching the company lets you know whether or not you should pursue a career with them. If you don't like what you see on the company's website or social media, you may want to think twice before applying for a position. Applying for a job you don't want is just a waste of time, and it keeps you further from finding your dream job.
4. You Don't Follow Up After the Interview
Whether or not the economy is doing well, the job market is highly competitive. The internet makes it easier than ever for people to hear about job listings, so there could be thousands of applicants for one job. If you want to beat out the other applicants, you need to do something to stand out.
It takes work to make yourself noticeable. And there's only so much you can do in your resume or during the interview to stand out. Fortunately, there's a simple step you can take after an interview to rise above the other candidates - send a follow-up email.
After your interview, wait one full week for a response from the hiring manager. If you don't hear anything, it's time to send an email to the employer. Explain that you're still interested in the position, and would like to thank them for their time. Your email will show passion, interest, and professionalism. It may also remind the hiring manager of your worth as an employee.
5. You Don't Search for Jobs When You're Employed
If you're not actively looking for work, you could be missing out on incredible opportunities. Even if you have a job, you should continue to look for new opportunities. The perfect position could come your way.
As you search for work, don't make the mistake of spending hours every day looking for another position. Instead, get job alerts or dedicate one hour, one day a week to searching for jobs. The job search doesn't need to interfere with your current position.
6. Doubting Yourself
One of the biggest mistakes you can make during the job search is to doubt yourself. If you're not confident in your abilities, no one else will be. Every day, remind yourself of your worth and capabilities.
It can be easy to allow negativity to cloud your judgment as you apply for jobs. After all, you will face rejection. An employer might never acknowledge the receipt of your resume, or you could be turned away after an interview. When rejection occurs, you need to remind yourself to stay positive.
Along the same vein, don't doubt that you're qualified for certain positions. If you don't meet the educational requirements but have the skills, apply for the position. The worst that can happen is a rejection. Give yourself enough credit and know that you're more than capable of success.