Abasiakan DennyThis post reveals the top job search mistakes and how to overcome them for a successful job search. Many candidates make errors in their job search. This has been the reason behind their major failings. Knowing these mistakes is crucial to overcoming them. Beyond looking for a job, some specifics must be followed for a successful job search. These job search mistakes ultimately affect the outcome of their job application.
Lack of Clear Goals
- Many job seekers enter the job market, looking for just anything. Without specifications of what they want, they are left wondering why they are not hired or relieved of their position. Some other candidates apply indiscriminately for job opportunities generally without customising their application. Due to the lack of compelling evidence to command acceptance such application is scraped out.
- To avoid this mistake define clearly what you want. Not all opportunities will suit your eligibility. This truth is one many job seekers do not want to accept. Streamline your interests based on your skills, experiences, educational certifications and other qualifications. Outline your qualifications and skills and streamline your search for opportunities in those fields.
Limiting Job Search to Posted Opportunities
- Many job offers are not advertised but can only be accessed through networking. Other job seekers focus only on jobs that are posted
- This mistake can be avoided by applying to companies you are interested in even if you don’t see their job ad. Be proactive in your search and reach out if they do not advertise opportunities.
- Â Leverage your networks and relationships for opportunities that are not made public. Be in contact with significant relationships to access unannounced job opportunities.
Using a General Resume
- Using a general resume for different job offers and positions is a mistake. This will render the resume weak and irrelevant to meet the job specifications. Employers require different skills, qualifications and other criteria that are particular to a job position.
- Customising your resume, cover letter, and other important application documents is crucial to meeting the criteria specific to each job offer. This tailored approach makes you an ideal candidate for the job position.
Neglecting Online Presence
- The world is evolving and many opportunities are available in the online space. Employers conduct research on an applicant by gauging their online profile and impact. Not having a positive online presence can be detrimental to your job search.
- Leverage platforms like LinkedIn to create and maintain a professional presence. Join groups and connect with professionals in your field. This will enhance your visibility to potential employers and expose you to job opportunities.
Failure to follow up
- Many candidates are ignorant of the dividends of following up after an interview or application. This has led to many missed opportunities. Not following up tends to push your application down the pecking order.
- After interviews, send thank you emails or write to the hiring company. Appreciate your potential employer for the chance to be interviewed for the position. Reiterate your qualities, skills and experiences that match the job.
- If you do not get a response after an application, consider sending a polite email to know the status of the application.
Lack of clear goals, limiting job search to advertised opportunities, using an all-in-one resume, lack of online presence and failure to follow up after a job interview are some mistakes by most job seekers. Knowing the common mistakes of many job seekers and following the different strategies can make a major difference in your next job search.
