By: Megan Jones

Searching for a job can be difficult. There are multiple obstacles that potential candidates must go through throughout their job searching process. The good news is that these factors are within your control. As a potential candidate you want to put your best foot forward and standout among your competition. If you are looking for your next great opportunity, here are 7 potential mistakes candidates can make when searching for a job.

How do Candidates Make Mistakes in the Job Searching Process?

Job searching is time consuming. Whether you are looking for a new position or a first-time job, it can be exhausting trying to find the time to job search and go through the application process. You may be tempted to quickly apply to numerous organizations just to get your name out there but that can lead to numerous mistakes and inevitably, a lack of responses from potential employers. In order to put your best foot forward and stand out among other candidates ensure you apply the quality time that job searching needs and avoid making mistakes in the process.

Having Unclear Goals

Job Search engines are a vast machine, from LinkedIn, ZipRecruiter, to your local staffing agency PsiNapse, there are hundreds of websites and positions to search from. If you do not have a clear goal about the type of position you are looking for, it can easily feel overwhelming. Before you begin your search, take the time to figure out what type of position you are looking for. If this is your first time applying, think about what field you are interested in. Then look for beginner entry jobs or internships in that field.

Not Having an Online Profile

With the majority of job postings and applications being online, it is beneficial to create an online profile. LinkedIn is a great way to begin to build your online repour. You can connect with colleagues and showcase your experience. It is also a great to link your LinkedIn profile to your job application for recruiters and hiring managers to have an additional place to learn more information about you and your experience.

Not Using Your Network Connections

When looking for a new position it can be tempting to solely rely on the online applications and not involve others in the process. However, you have a network, use it! Whether it is an old friend or a former colleague consider reaching out to them if they are working for a company you are interested in. It is a great way for you to learn more about a potential company. Moreover, you can ask them if they can refer you to an open position. However, if you are new to networking, consider attending a network event to meet new people and expand your network. If you are looking for more networking tips, check out Let’s Get Networking.

Having Errors in Your Resume or Cover Letter

Your resume and cover letter are your one shot to impress a hiring manager. They receive hundreds to thousands a day and search through to find the best candidates. Therefore, it is imperative to make a good impression. Having a resume with errors indicates that you did not take the time to go through your resume (and if you didn’t, why should the hiring manager). Take the time to review your resume, check for spelling and grammatical errors. If you need a resume refresher, check out our articles on How to Create an Outstanding Resume.

Not Emphasizing Your Skillset

When preparing your resume, ensure you are emphasizing your skillset. From your collegiate to previous work experience you have a unique skillset that potential employers deserve to hear about! However, when creating a resume, create one for the job you are applying for. Remember resumes are not one size fits all! Look at the job listing and then curate a resume that fits within the skills that the listing is looking for. If you need additional buzzwords or skills to emphasize in your resume, check out our article on Buzzwords to Use on Your Resume.

Being Unprepared for an Interview

Getting an interview is exceptionally exciting, you are one step closer to landing your next opportunity! However, you must come prepared. Before an interview, look up the company, research what work they do and the achievements they have made. Look for their core values and practices. Most of this information can be found on the about us page of their website. Additionally, come with questions. You should always ask questions throughout and at the end of the interview. Although interviews can be scary, reframe it as a conversation of just getting to know each other. If you need extra advice check out our articles Acing Interviews and Ending an Interview.

Not Following Up After the Interview

After an interview it is imperative to send a thank you note to the hiring manager. Take the time to thank them and emphasize a few notes and takeaways you got from the conversation. A simple thank you goes a long way in the application process and can help you stand out from other candidates.

We wish you the best of luck in your job search and if you need a helping hand consider PsiNapse!