Candidates: Avoid These Top Job Search Mistakes

Is there something preventing you from landing the interview? After speaking with hiring managers across the global mobility industry, we have learned that there are some mistakes that job seekers frequently make. Find out if you are guilty of one of these mistakes:

Bombarding Potential Employers with Too Much Information

Whether you’re a recent grad or a seasoned professional, you have to understand how competitive today’s market is and respect the hiring manager’s time. A two-page cover letter along with a four-page resume is simply too much for them to digest. Short and sweet is the way to go these days. Your goal should be to highlight what you bring to the table in a clear and concise way to get their attention.

Not Meeting The Employer’s Needs

Many people will tell you to shoot for the stars and apply for any job that has an opening, even if you are not fully qualified. The truth is that hiring managers have a specific set of needs to meet. If you are not sure whether or not you fit the bill, one of the best things you can do is contact them and ask more specific questions about their needs. Online job descriptions tend to be vague and use lots of bullet points, but there is always room for clarification. Even after you land the interview, you need to be sure that you demonstrate to the interviewer that you understand their needs and can meet them while you are face-to-face.

Failure to Follow Up

A follow up is an important step in showing the employer that you are appreciative of their time and that you are serious about the job. Even if they choose not to hire you for the first job you applied to, a follow up is a great way to stay top-of-mind for future job opportunities.

If you do find yourself making these mistakes, it may be time to review your resume and interview strategies to focus more on what the employer wants and needs, rather than telling your whole life story. Always make sure that your follow-up is personal and ties in your value proposition to the employer.