A first date is much like job-hunting: you want to make a great first impression! When you’re sloppy, disorganized, and unprofessional, you won’t land your dream job (or ruin your chances at a second date).
Low unemployment means employers are competing for workers. You want to get the best job possible and show an employer your ability. Avoiding some common mistakes shows you’re on your game, and you’ll represent the company well.
Here are common job-hunting mistakes and how to avoid them.
Job-Hunting Mistakes Begin With a Messy Resume and Cover Letter
Regardless of the types of jobs you are applying for; you want your resume and cover letter to be the best. Make sure your resume and cover letter are free of grammar errors, typos, and spelling mistakes. Before you and a potential employer meet in person, your resume and cover letter make the first impression.
Keep both your resume and cover to one page each. Highlight your accomplishments. If you have a special certification, make sure you note it on your resume to get you a cissp salary!
Use Your Network
Many people fail to use their network when looking for a job. Who do you know, and what employers do they work for? While looking for jobs online is excellent, sometimes you won’t find the best job on an online job board.
The best jobs often come through referrals. Not using the people in your network is one of the biggest job-hunting mistakes. They can usually point you in the right direction at an organization and put your resume and cover letter right at the top of the pile.
Prepare for the Interview
Preparing for the interview is one of the most significant steps in the process. You may look great on paper, but you won’t get the job if you fail the interview test. Preparing for the interview correctly shows the employer you can handle the job and are worthy of the position.
Practice with a friend or family. Make them ask you tough or uncomfortable questions, and be sure they get you to highlight your accomplishments. Knowing how to answer questions correctly without negativity or lack of focus is key to landing the job.
Online Presence
After submitting an online job application, one of the first things an employer will do is search for your online presence. Depending on the type of job, they may see how you conduct yourself in your personal life.
What does your social media look like? Is it professional? Is there anything overtly embarrassing, potentially illegal, or unethical?
Job-Hunting Mistakes to Avoid
Job-hunting mistakes can cost you your dream job. A messy resume and cover letter, not using your network, and failing to prepare for the interview are all costly. Be sure to have an excellent online presence to make a great online impression.
Land the job of your dreams! Don’t make these common job-hunting mistakes!
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