Mistakes to Avoid During Your Job Search

27 Jan Mistakes to Avoid During Your Job Search

Looking for a new position is a daunting task. You’ve gone over your resume dozens of times trying to make sure all bases are covered and all details are perfect. 

But after a month or more of applying, the phone still isn’t ringing, or interviews are happening but the offers aren’t coming in. What’s going on? 

It’s possible you’ve made a mistake while applying to these positions — it could be something small or something large, but the end result is the same. 

Here are some things to think about, and avoid doing, as you look for a new job: 

1. Applying to everything in sight

You don’t want to waste your time applying to a job that doesn’t particularly interest you, or match up with your qualifications, just to get the meeting. Use a more targeted approach that aligns well with the experience you already have and the skills you’ve already acquired. 

2. Using the same resume for every application

There are different models of vehicles to suit different uses and road conditions. There are different types of clothes for different types of climates. Your resume should, similarly, reflect each job. Tailor your skills and your experience to the type of job you’re applying for and highlight the most pertinent details to show why you’re worth an interview. It’s also best to tailor your cover letter to each position, to reiterate why you are the one to consider for the job. Tell your story well and clearly. 

3. Walking into an interview without doing some research 

One of the most common questions asked during a job interview is why you’re interested in the position. A follow-up might be why you feel you’re a good fit for the job. Take time before the interview to really get to know the company and the position and be prepared to make some strong points. This will show that you’ve cared enough to do some homework and that you’re invested and serious about the opportunity. 

4. Not thinking about what you’ll wear to the interview

Especially for first interviews, you want to make sure you look like you belong there. Dress to impress, but don’t go overboard. If you know someone who works at the company where you’ve applied, ask them what people wear to work. Most importantly, make sure your clothes are clean, tidy, and (as much as possible) wrinkle-free. 

5. Not following up 

After the interview is over and you’ve gone home for the day, take a minute to think about the conversation. Then get out the email, or, better yet, a card and pen, and say thank you. Contact the people you’ve met with, thank them for their time and consideration. If there’s something you want to add that didn’t come up during the interview, mention it here, but briefly. Offer to provide any additional information that might be needed. But most important is the act of following-up. It shows a level of interest and it’s a simple act of kindness and appreciation that could set you apart from the other candidates. 

Go into your interviews prepared, with confidence and a good handshake. You might talk too fast or get someone’s name wrong, but show that you’re sincere, honest, and genuinely interested and you’ll go a long way toward getting a second, and maybe third, look. 

Find your next opportunity!

LeadingEdge is ready to help you find your next opportunity! As one of the top staffing firms in San Antonio & Austin, TX, we are here for your job search needs. When the time comes to find a new job, we’re ready and waiting to help, with a deep list of companies eager to find employees just like you.