Making a good first impression with a hiring manager remains one of the most crucial keys to actually getting to the interview stage of your job search. However, several red flags may reduce your chances of progressing in the process. Avoid these mistakes on the hunt for your dream job, and see how quickly you get a call back for an interview.
1. Templates
Tailor your cover letter and resume to the job at hand by using the right keywords from the job description that shows your work experience and qualifications. Your hiring manager does not want to see generic verbiage that simply copies and pastes words from the job listing.
2. Not Following Directions
Submit your application materials precisely as specified in the instructions in the posting. Employers like hires who listen and follow directions. Your hiring manager should be able to count on you to listen to what he has to say during the course of your job.
3. Long Gaps
Large gaps between jobs that last more than a few months are a red flag, especially if you cannot explain the gap. Fill your time between positions with internships, volunteer work, freelancing, spending time with family or going back to school to prove that you did something with your time away from work.
4. Typos and Grammatical Errors
A misspelled word or a grammatical error in your cover letter or resume could make a hiring manager stumble over your words. Managers love employees to pay attention to detail, so go over these documents carefully before submitting them for consideration. Run spell checks, have someone else look over your work, and read your documents aloud to determine if they look and sound correct.
5. Lack of Proof
When you list a skill, reference or previous employer, you should have some kind of proof of those facts. Your hiring manager thoroughly vets potential team members. If something seems off, you may not get a call. Your references should vouch for your skills and talk about you in a positive way. Meanwhile, human resources staffers from past employers should verify your employment dates from previous jobs.
6. Unprofessional Mannerisms
When you answer the phone when a company calls, do so in a polite and courteous manner. Avoid saying "Yeah" or being too casual when you speak. Employers may see your lack of professionalism as a red flag for how you would behave at the office. Instead, say "Hello, this is..." and give your name. Research the phone number of the employer so that you recognize the incoming number on your caller ID.
A first impression is vital to securing an interview, but you still have to wow the hiring manager in person later in the process. Work on eliminating these seemingly small mistakes first before practicing for the interview. Once you get the time and date for the interview, you can focus on your 30 minutes of face time.
Photo courtesy of Tim Green at Flickr.com
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