Some are new to the game, some have been hunting for a while and some are simply checking out the job market. Mistakes can occur in any job-hunting situation, especially when one becomes complacent or even lazy. Here are some of the mistakes we still see, and how to avoid making them during your own job search.
Sitting back and waiting
So many candidates put a lot of effort into scouring the job pages and sending out a barrage of CVs to prospective employers. Then, they sit back and wait for things to happen. This is passive job-searching and it is not a good idea. You have to be active in your job search to reap any rewards. This applies even when you are using the services of a recruiter. Yes, they will assist you in chasing up jobs you’ve applied for, but you still have to be pro-active in communicating your goals. Sitting back and waiting for something to happen is simply wasting your time. Get out there and network, connect and see your job search efforts pay off in spades.
Making broad applications
By this, we mean applying to any and every job that even vaguely falls within your field. Job specs are specific for a reason – the employer is looking for someone who fits it as perfectly as possible. By applying to jobs you aren’t well-suited for, you can really ruin your reputation within an organisation. Your job search has to be goal-driven and honed to your specific skills, qualifications and background. This will make your job search far more successful and save you a lot of knock-backs.
Not tailoring your CV
There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to CVs and applying to jobs. It might be tedious, but if you’re going to give yourself the best chance at landing the job you want, you need to tailor your CV to the specific role you are going for.
Not tailoring your cover letter
Or not sending one at all! Cover letters are important and can greatly improve your chances of getting through to an interview, but they must be written from scratch every time you apply for a role. A generic cover letter will not get you very far.
Not making it clear why you want the job
Too often, job-hunters focus on singing their own praises and forget to actually state why they want the role they are going for in the first place. It is crucial not to forget to make it clear why you want the job, not simply why you’d be good at it.
It’s easy to become complacent about job hunting, especially for those who have been at it for a while. However, if you want to give yourselves the best chance of landing an interview, it’s all about the effort you put in during these early stages.