There is much competition for jobs, but some people make it harder to get an interview or get hired. The difficulties arise from making mistakes that demonstrate a lack of confidence and belief in the job search. The lack of clarity could be in the resumes they present or a supporting cover letter.
Sometimes job candidates introduce themselves well by submitting the relevant documents for the job. However, they fail to demonstrate how recruiters or employers will fit into a role and work harmoniously with others. For instance, some jobs require teamwork, so candidates who do not show their ability to work with other people make the mistake of showing they have qualifications but are still unfit for available positions.
Others get to the interview stage but fail to emphasize the points that persuade their interviewers that they are the ideal candidates. Below are some of the mistakes that job searchers make and cost them opportunities time and again.
1 - Failing to Prepare a Job Search Plan
Searching for a job does not just mean sending a resume to all open positions because the description seems interesting. It is a mistake to send a resume to all local companies while thinking that applying to all available vacancies in a field increases the chances of hiring. Blasting resumes everywhere usually leads to dead ends. Chances of hire increase with careful mapping of a plan that targets specific companies to create connections and a career within qualified positions.
2 - Submitting One Resume for Different Applications
One resume for all applications reduces the chances of hiring. Recruiters can sense applicants who did not make an effort to write a resume specifically for the advertised job. They interpret it as a lack of a special commitment for the job. A solution to this shortcoming is by customizing a resume to fit a role or company. Employers prefer candidates who make them feel special by writing a resume specifically for their organization. Customizing a resume also demonstrates how an applicant fits for a position. Customization is crucial during these days of online applications and recruitment. Recruiters enter the skills they require as the keywords. They are unlikely to find a resume and profile without keywords.
3 - Too Much Information
A resume should present information that shows what an applicant can offer to an employer without ambiguity. It should not mix up capacity with what a job searcher wants to gain from the job. It should also not include all milestones like years of work history, graduation years, and fun activities. A resume should make an impression within seconds, so personal information and reasons for interest in a job distract the readers. Many applicants use a cover letter for self-introduction, yet it should be targeted to show why they are good candidates. A good cover letter supports the resume by demonstrating fitness for a job but not introducing personality.
4 - Bad Impression on Social Media
Employers are likely to search the internet and find out information about candidates. Social media profiles, information, posts, or other activities put off potential employers if they are offensive or negative. They prefer those with a positive representation on social media and are more active with issues concerning their field. Keep your online profile looking clean.
5 - Wrong Impression During an Interview
Some candidates sail through the application but ruin their chances by making a wrong impression at the interview. Inappropriate attire is a widespread mistake. Job searchers should not go to an interview dressed too casually or overdressed. A safe bet is to research an organization's dress code and wear clothes similar to everyday wear for employees. Hiring managers get the first impression of a candidate from the clothing they wear.
Presentation during an interview should not stray beyond what a job seeker can do for the employer if hired. It is an opportunity to lay out qualifications and skills. Candidates should not start by stating the benefits they expect from a job before showing they are ideal for the job. Negative comments about previous employers, failing to answer questions well, or saying things like "details or on the resume" turn off the interviewers.
6 - Failing to Follow Up
Many job searchers risk being forgotten by failing to follow up and assuming hiring managers will keep thinking about them. It is essential to follow up an interview or network meeting with a phone call or email thanking the individuals for their time. Recruiters remember job seekers who follow up and are likely to create a future meeting, even if the current position doesn’t work out.
