Top 10 Job Search Mistakes to Avoid

June 30, 2021
Posted in Job Seekers
June 30, 2021 ThePost

You know how long and hard the process of finding a job can be. All the hours put into researching, planning, and waiting. It makes it all worth it in the end when you get that interview. Sometimes along the way, though, there are mistakes that can arise.

Knowing these common job search mistakes can prevent you from making them in the future.

Here at Interior Talent, we provide outstanding service to ensure that your needs are met and come first when it comes to job searching.

Being Careful and Smart Are Key

When you consider the fact that many people are after the same kind of job you are, it can add even more unwanted stress.

In a competitive job market, doing or saying one wrong thing can mess up your chances at getting the position you want. That’s why it’s imperative you consider the following before even getting started:

  • Be aware of how you apply
  • Be aware of how you pitch your qualifications and attributes to future employers
  • Be careful with what you write
  • Be careful with what you say

10 Common Job Search Mistakes You Should Know

Everyone makes mistakes – it’s human nature. However, by making sure you’re aware of potential mistakes ahead of time in your job search, you will yield more positive results.

Here are 10 common job search mistakes you should avoid:

1.     Not Knowing What Goes into a Resume 

Your resume should be what you can offer from your experience and skills in your next step, and not what you want in a job.

It should be a relevant professional experience and skills, including keywords that align with the roles you are seeking in your next step. You only have seconds to make an impression – don’t waste it.

2. Your Qualifications and the Job Don’t Match Up

There needs to be an alignment between the job you’re applying for and your qualifications. It’s important you take the time to ensure that you fit the criteria the employer is looking for.

Employers and job listings define the qualifications that one should have align with the role, review those before submitting your resume. 

3. Not Prepared for the Interview

Job interviews can be difficult for most, bringing nervousness and uncertainty, but being prepared is key. Being prepared allows you to focus on whether the company is the right match for you and the role is in alignment with your next step. Be sure that you do extensive research on both the company and interviewer beforehand.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions and make small talk during the interview. Most companies are looking to make a connection with the interviewee in that first interview. That connection can allow you to stand apart from the interviewees they are meeting with.

4. No References

It’s important to have references set when you are applying for jobs, especially when most employers will be inclined to call them. Make sure your references know about your accomplishments, as well as the type of job you’re looking for and are qualified for.

5. Being Open to Too Many Jobs

While it’s good to have multiple opportunities instead of just one, be sure not to spread yourself too thin. Focus on finding the right opportunity, not just any job. Be clear on what type of position you want rather than focusing on one specific role.

6. Being Unprofessional

It’s okay to feel comfortable during an interview, but you need to remember to still stay professional. That means dressing appropriately and refraining from using foul or derogatory language – either of which can cost you the job.

You may seem like a good candidate on paper, but make sure you match that reality in person. It happens often in interviews, when an interviewee makes that connection immediately so they feel comfortable and forget it’s an interview.

7. Showing up Late

Of course, you want to get the job. In order to be considered, showing up is half the battle.

Make sure to plan accordingly and be aware of any potential delays on interview day, whether with traffic or weather. It’s also not a bad idea to show up earlier than expected.

Advice we share with candidates is to plan on arriving at least 15 – 20 minutes early, but do not enter the building until 5 minutes early.

During that extra time you can calm your nerves and utilize the time to gather your materials you are bringing into your interview or review any last minute questions you wanted to ask during the interview. 

8. Negotiating

You need to research and compile your desired earning before going into an interview with anyone. Otherwise, you’ll be negotiating for a salary without understanding the data and what you need.

Keep in mind, though, the first interview or depending on the process, the first few interviews are not the time to discuss salary or start negotiating.

The focus at the beginning is to make a connection with your potential employer and make sure the role aligns with your next step. Once you approach the offer stage is when discussing salary or when negotiations begin. 

9. Networking Done Wrong

Networking is an important part of every job search. It’s important to remember that networking takes time but can pay off in the end. Having a structured, professional approach to networking that you can track easily is key.

10. Not Doing a Follow-Up

Following up after a job interview is another chance to make a good impression on the employer. Good examples include sending a thank you note, emailing, or even calling.

For the follow-up, you can also give them some information you may have forgotten during the interview itself.

Even if you don’t get the job after a follow-up, it still helps the employer keep you in mind if another position were to open up in the future. Leaving a great impression is key in any industry. 

It’s All Up to You

At the end of the day, you are the deciding factor on whether or not you want to pursue that job.

Now that you know what you should avoid doing, the job search process might seem less scary and more encouraging.

At Interior Talent, we help to make sure that that job you’re looking for now is the last one you’ll search for. All it takes is one click to change your life.