When looking for a job: mistakes to avoid

A job search can become severe stress, especially if the process has been going on for a long time without any success. But try not to despair because of refusals. Give yourself some time to relax between your job search efforts and maintain a positive attitude – and your job search can be a very useful experience. To do this, you need to work on your mistakes to find your dream job eventually.

Let’s see what the main mistakes applicants make and how to avoid them.

You shift responsibility

An important point: finding a job is your responsibility, and there is no need to blame other people for your difficulties and failures. Focus on positive actions, not negative thoughts. One cannot change the incident, but you will be able to cope with difficulties by taking control of the situation.

You allow the search to take possession of your life

Many job seekers shift all other duties and concerns while looking for a job. Of course, on the one hand, it is understandable – the desire or even the need to urgently find a new job makes every effort. But no matter how important it is to devote time to developing well-thought-out cover letters and resumes, do not waste 100% of your time on it. Let yourself have some time to relax. Spend time with your family, play sports and do what you like. Otherwise, finding a job will turn into complete stress for you.

You are offended by refusals

Unfortunately, the probability of receiving a job invitation by sending a resume for the first interesting vacancy is very low. The fact that one employer refused you does not mean that the work of your dreams is not waiting for you very soon. Acceptance of refusals is part of the search process, so it is very important to receive feedback from the recruiter. Perhaps it will help you identify your weaknesses and eliminate them.

You ignore alternative sources

Job search sites are, of course, the main source of job search. However, there are also other places that can help you find interesting offers. Social networks and friends’ recommendations are also excellent sources of information about vacancies.

Your message is too long

The employer does not need to know about every detail of your experience. It is enough for him to understand what you can bring to his company. There is no need to tell the entire history of his life and work – moments that are interesting to the employer; he will always be able to learn in detail at the interview. Do not oversaturate your resume and cover letter with information; it should be a kind of trailer – let the employer be interested in advance, and you can tell everything about yourself in person.

You send feedback to all vacancies in a row

It makes you look desperate, and you lose focus. It is better to respond to fewer vacancies and make each contact with the employer more individual. The principle of “I’ll send my resume everywhere to increase my chances” doesn’t work, in fact. To get a good offer, your resume and cover letter should look as if you are applying only for this particular vacancy. Take half an hour to add nuances and subtleties to your standard resume that correspond to the right position and the right company. Such a response will not be standardized and will interest the employer much more.

You don’t understand that times are changing

If you haven’t been to the labor market for a while, ask for advice from someone who recently looked for a job. It may seem that nothing has changed since you were looking for a job last time, but time does not stand still (especially if you did it a few years ago). Get acquainted with current trends – read articles and tips on how best to present yourself in modern conditions, what requirements employers now have, and how to attract a recruiter’s attention.

You forget about competition

You need to stand out from the crowd. The labor market is very competitive, so you need to convince employers that you are much better than the rest. Emphasize your greatest strengths, do not forget to provide information about advanced training or self-study. Now one of the main requirements in the labor market is the ability to learn quickly and efficiently – show your employer that you can do it.

You’re trying to hide that you’re looking for a job

Although the job search is a personal experience, do not make it a secret. Share with family, friends, colleagues – maybe someone in your environment will tell you the direction in which it is better to look for yourself or offer a vacancy. Moreover, your loved ones will always be able to help you morally – to support after refusal or give the necessary advice about your resume.

We hope that our advice will help you eliminate all mistakes, and finding a job will be a useful and valuable (and most importantly – short) experience for you. Keep a positive attitude, approach this task responsibly, and your dream job is sure to be found!