Four Common Job Search Mistakes You May Make
You often know when you just made a big mistake on your job application. You forget to attach your resume. You have submitted the wrong version. You send your cover letter to Mr. Chris Allen – and then you realize that there is a high probability that Chris is a woman. But in other cases, you don’t even know that you are making a mistake.
You might even think that you are doing everything right! In fact, there are several common job search methods that candidates use over and over again because they think they work well. In reality, however, these very same strategies can get in the way of you and this important interview.
To make sure you have the best chance of getting closer to your dream job, here are four common mistakes and far more effective methods to try instead.
1. Try to find as many vacancies as you can find
People often think that finding a job is a numbers game. The more CVs you send, the more likely they will call you back, right?
Mmm, not really. Because reaching out to hundreds of jobs means you’re probably not wasting time really researching the company and position, adapting each application accordingly, and reaching out to current employees who can provide you with inside information. (And if so? I’m jealous of how many hours you should have a day.)
Likewise, candidates sometimes find that applying for multiple positions with the same company increases their chances of being called back to one of them. In fact, though, it sends one of three messages: that you’re not sure what you want, that you’re desperate and ready for anything, or that you don’t have a solid idea of what each job entails. Not good anyway.
Solution: Think Quality, Not Quantity
Instead of applying for every semi-relevant job within a 60 mile radius, start your search by shortlisting dream companies and learning everything you can about them. When they have jobs that match your skill set, take the time to carefully design your application – adjust resume markers to show exactly how your experience matches your experience, write a personalized cover letter and ask your new contacts if they have any advice how to stand out.
Yes, this approach takes more time and energy than submitting the same resume over and over again, but your chances of success in an interview will be much, much higher.
2. Application as soon as possible
So you’ve narrowed down the list of companies, and one of them just posted a role that matches your skills exactly. Awesome! So, you start everything up as quickly as possible and hit submit – wanting the hiring manager to see this first app. Not only will you show how excited you are with the work, but the team may also like your app so much that they won’t have to interview anyone else.
News: It rarely benefits you.
Solution: wait a day or so
In nine cases out of 10, I have to discard applications that I receive within the first hour after the position is published because they are incomplete. When you focus on speed and not everything else, it’s easy to overlook details – correct titles, including extra stuff, etc. Better to give yourself a day or two to write, rewrite and edit your stuff , make sure you include everything you need and ask someone else to look at them. (And, again, a general bonus if you get advice from a current employee.) A stellar app will be better every time than not quite finished, but prompting.
3. Sending a resume to people of their own free will
Let’s go back for a second to those people who work in the companies of your dreams. Meeting them and getting on their radar: good. Asking their advice on working there: good too. Send them your resume without asking with a note that says, “Here’s my resume – let me know if you know anything I would be a good fit for!” Surprisingly not always the best.
Of course, in some cases you can get lucky, but usually only if the company is hiring for a position that fully matches your qualifications. But this step can also be interpreted if you are asking your new buddy (who already helped you with talking to you about the company) to do the hard work for you – going through your resume, checking if any openings are suitable, and forwarding your information.
Correction: Apply normally, then inform your contact
Yes, you can (and should) ask your contact for advice before applying. And if in the process he or she offers to pass on your resume or recommendation, that’s fine. But never make this assumption. Use these tips you’ve learned and then do the hard work like any other candidate. Take a look at the company’s job page, find your dream role, and then submit an application with all the necessary elements.
4. Submitting a great job application for which you are not eligible (fingers crossed)
Don’t get me wrong: I think everyone should apply to roles that are just a little strained. Achieving goals is good – and you can be more qualified than you think, and with a little luck and preparation , you can get an interview.
But there is a difference between applying for a job that is a little unaffordable and a job that you never get. For example: work at a managerial level with three years of work experience; Lead a 10-person department team when you have never been in charge; applying for a product manager position because you think it sounds cool and hey you figure it out. I’ve seen people in all of these situations think they can make up for the lack of experience with passion and great application, but most of the time hiring managers think differently.
Solution: focus on the right jobs
Again, your time is much better spent in positions that match your current skills and level of experience well. Spend most of your effort in roles for which you meet the vast majority of requirements, adding a few “attainable” jobs here and there.
If you’re making a small leap, read on for tips from Muse writer Katie Doutwait Wolf on how to stand out from more qualified candidates. Or work with a coach on a job search strategy that will get you noticed.
Finally, consider the approach of career expert Kari Reston: “Instead of directly applying for a job, submit a speculative application to the company. Recognize that the position that grabbed your attention is for someone older, but explain your interest and say that you would be interested in joining the team in a different capacity. “
I know these job search methods are used with the best intentions! But make sure you put yourself in the hiring manager’s shoes. But turning to too many jobs too quickly, shooting too high, or expecting others to do too much will not bring the desired results. Try these simple shifts and you’ll be much more likely to get interviewed.