Updated December 4, 2021
by Tara E.
People are quitting their jobs by the hundreds of thousands, hoping for a better job somewhere. It’s become clear to many people in the workforce that it’s time for a new job. However, there are six career mistakes every jobseeker should avoid when applying for a job. Despite possessing a history of good work experience and a healthy set of skills, some applicants can miss out on an excellent opportunity for a job that transforms into a career. Believe it or not, your recruiter holds a fair amount of power. They are a gatekeeper. No matter your work experience or skillset, any candidate can lose out on an excellent opportunity if they make basic mistakes during the application and interview process.
This article will discuss six career mistakes that job-seekers should avoid.
Applicants Fail to Complete the Application
One of the six career mistakes every jobseeker should avoid when applying for a job is submitting an incomplete application. Recruiters do not have the time to translate your work experience to fill in the blanks. Many barely understand the role you are applying for to perform. Instead, they leverage the input of the hiring manager to form a picture of who you are and whether your application paints you as a fit. You must provide relevant details of your work experience. Recruiters often have hundreds of resumes to review. Thus, they can only invest mere minutes or even seconds in scanning your resume.
Failure to Follow Instructions
Read or listen to instructions from the hiring company closely. For example, recruiters often specify if phone calls are or are not welcome with the application process. If a recruiter identifies that phone calls are not welcome, it is best to follow those instructions. It ensures that the resume reaches the right person at the right time with the correct information and underlines your willingness to adhere to instructions.
Generic Applications
The next item on our list of six career mistakes to avoid is submitting a generic application. Job portals allow you to apply by clicking on the “Apply” link. Some recommend that you avoid this action and instead take a moment to preview the upload of your resume or job experience. You want to make your resume stand out. Many job searchers often send group emails and generic resumes to recruiters. This action may be the worst mistakes you can make. It can present a shabby picture and demonstrate an applicant’s desperation and lackadaisical attitude.
Applying for a Job in a Rush
Organizations hire based on what the candidate brings to the table and not on a first-come-first-serve basis. So never rush! Double-check your application details on the job board, resume, and cover letter before sending them. Applications and cover letters filled with typos, accompanied by poorly formatted resumes, will create a negative impression.
Attracting the Recruiter’s Attention
To attract recruiters’ attention, many candidates resort to flashy formatting. This flashiness may include fancy footers, flamboyant language, or even personal pleas in the comments section. Recruiters do not spend more than a few seconds perusing a CV, and only if it evokes their interest are they likely to go through it in detail. So ensure there is smart formatting and the correct choice of words. Not following up: Online applications also need follow-ups. For instance, if you do not hear from the recruiter within seven to 10 days, it is best to follow up on your application. Don’t call or mail recruiters every other day. The key is to be polite and show interest in the position while inquiring about your application.
In closing, we have discussed six career mistakes every job applicant should avoid. These things can make or break your job hunting experience. Do not fear. Even if you break one of these rules, all is never lost. Learn what you can from every interview experience and carry it with you to the next. You are likely to achieve amazing things with a bit of effort.
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