5 Mistakes Job Seekers Make

In a tough job market, job seekers need to find a way to gain an edge in any way possible. Unfortunately too many job seekers make trivial mistakes that cost them the job. Consider some of the major mistakes that candidates often make while seeking employment.

Lack of Positivity and Enthusiasm

A long, grinding job search can be highly stressful for job seekers, and it can even zap their enthusiasm and negatively affect their attitude. It is imperative to convey enthusiasm in person to help you stand out. Commit to searching for jobs weekly on a schedule to maintain a professional mindset. Smile and stand tall when you finally meet with an interviewer, so you don't appear like an image of defeat before you even start talking. Always put your best foot and face forward, for you never know when the perfect job opportunity will spring up.

Using a Bad Resume

Some job seekers have had the same stale resume for years, and they wonder why they get overlooked for good jobs. Studies also show that a fair percentage of job seekers have at least one mistake or discrepancy on their resume. It is important to update your resume regularly and fine-tune it so it is error-free. In addition, you can customize a resume for each position you are seeking, and highlight information that is compatible with the job’s qualifications to improve your chances of nailing the job.

Failure to Build a Network

As long as you are seeking employment, you must focused on building a professional network of connections. Other industry professionals you befriend can give you a referral that gets you in the door. Keep in contact with representatives of companies you are interested in, because an employer that did not hire you for one position may think you are an ideal fit for another one.

Lack of Interview Preparation

Another mistake that job hunters make is neglecting to prepare for the interview process. Many candidates strut in confidently without careful preparation, but they often walk out without the job. It is crucial to prepare for the interview process by rehearsing for the interview with a fellow friend, family member or professor. Ponder the answers to common interview questions, so you are not caught off guard later. Record yourself doing a mock interview, and make changes accordingly to improve your interview style.

Not Following Up

Too many job seekers fill out an application, attend the interview and neglect to follow up with the hiring manager. It is important to remember that job seekers who follow up with employers after the interview is over are more likely to get noticed, and may even get the job. When a hiring manager has a mass of resumes on his desk, those that follow up bring positive attention to themselves.

The simple mistakes job seekers make can bar them from employment and extend the job search. Again and again, the proactive job seeker wins, even if there is stiff competition on the radar. The key to snagging the job of your dreams is to avoid the common errors many job seekers make.

Photo courtesy of iosphere at FreeDigitalPhotos.net