The jobs market is fiercer than ever. So beware of these common job search mistakes to avoid being taken out of the running for your dream job.
Five Common Job Search Mistakes
Anyone looking for employment during this weak economy and period of high unemployment rates knows how difficult a job search can be. There is stiff competition for positions that may not have had many qualified candidates to choose from. In addition to your solid education and desirable skill set, there are common mistakes that even the most seasoned professionals must be careful to avoid.
Using the Same Methods of Job Search
Some people like to conduct online job searches, while others like to use networking and word of mouth to hear about employment opportunities. Sending out multiple applications and resumes can make you feel productive, but that does not give you face time with possible employers. And only strictly networking can make you miss out on opportunities listed online. “It’s best to use a variety of methods when conducting a job search. As a result, you will come across more opportunities and possibly shorten your job search,” explains Minority Network Exchange founder Vernard Alexander. His organization works with entrepreneurs to get their businesses up and running, including coaching them to hire employees. He is also a Site Manager of the Reemployment Transition Center, which helps displaced workers re-enter the workforce. He sums things up this way, “Network, use online job search tools, and let the people in your social circle know you’re looking for employment.”
Not Tailoring Your Resume and Cover Letter to Specific Jobs
Many people never change their objectives and skillset on their resume. Both should change for each job an applicant applies for to meet the specific needs of each potential employer. Even if you have fifteen years in Customer Service Management, each company has a different set of qualifications they are looking for. “Your resume is not a template. Be sure that it reflects the skills and qualifications the employer needs that you have in your possession,” Alexander adds. And be sure to change your cover letter as well.
Not checking for errors in your materials
When applying for numerous jobs in a short period and looking over resumes and cover letters for hours on end, the words can start to run together. It’s easy to make errors while editing your own work. If possible, get a trusted colleague, friend, or family member to look over your resume and cover letter for mistakes. If that isn’t practicable, take regular pauses to re-evaluate your materials.
Sticking to a One Page Resume
Employers threw out the one-page resume rule years ago. People no longer remain with one firm for 30 years. Professionals are likely to have switched employers and possible careers five to seven times in their lives. Deleting relevant information from a resume for the sake of page length can be detrimental to your search. “Employers don’t mind if your resume is two pages, as long as it’s two pages of relevant information,” Alexander advises.
Getting Discouraged
Nothing can stop a good job search from getting off the ground than discouragement. When seeking employment, some employers might not make you an offer. They might have found another candidate or just not have made a connection with you. It’s okay to feel upset about not getting a job you wanted, but try not to dwell on it.
Looking for employment can be stressful under the best of circumstances. Employers can be very picky when hiring candidates because they have many to choose from. Avoiding these common job search mistakes bypass a long line of applicants and head straight to your exciting, new job!
