Category Archives: Job Hunting

Are you on a job hunt? Have you been unable to get through to any of the prospective companies even though you are qualified enough? It’s time for you to analyze your performance, right from preparing a resume to appearing for an interview.

We have listed 14 important things you could be doing that are costing you job offers. These are the common mistakes made my many job seekers.  This will help you correct the mistakes and perform better next time.

1. Don’t look for ‘high profile’ jobs if you are just starting out

This is one of the common mistakes made by beginners. They want to get their ‘dream job’ and till then, their wait continues. You must understand that you will likely have to gain some experience to reach that ‘dream job’.

2. Don’t give irrelevant references

You must always be very careful while giving references. Some people give the reference of their friends who are unrelated to the job you are looking to get. Always give the reference of your seniors or managers who are in a position to assess and evaluate your performance at work.

3. Don’t limit your options

Many jobseekers stop searching for jobs once they are shortlisted by a company. Never do this. Look around for more options. You may find better job options.

4. Don’t be disorganized

Always be neat and tidy when you go for interviews. Keep your certificates and other documents in a file. Remember to maintain a clean briefcase where things are properly organized and within your reach if needed.

5. Don’t harbor a negative attitude

Nowadays, most interviews are conducted over the phone. When you get a call from your employer, be pleasant and charming. Don’t make your employer/s feel you have a negative attitude. They may feel that you are not fit for their organization.

6. Don’t nag your employer

You must always be patient. Wait for the call or message from your employer. Don’t pester him/her by calling up every day to know the results of your interview.

7. Don’t write long thank you notes

Once you land the job, be careful in writing the thank you note. Keep it short, preferably at 7-8 sentences.

8. Don’t be rude

Many managers take their interviewees out for lunch. This is mainly to notice your behavior in public. Be nice with the people around you such as waiters, cab drivers, etc.

9. Don’t keep a self-indulgent online profile, especially on social networking sites

Remember that your employer may check you out online, especially on social networking sites. Maintain a respectable online profile to better your chances of landing a job.

10. Don’t put too many bullet points in the resume

Bullet points make for easy reading, but don’t bombard your resume with them. This will create a bad impression.

11. Don’t put your old professional email address on the resume

Never put your work email address that was provided to you in your previous job in your resume if you’re looking for a new job.

12. Don’t include too much work history

If you have more than 20 years of work experience, don’t write the entire history from your first job in the resume. You just need to write about your job history of the last 10 years.

13. Don’t be disappointed with your temporary job post

Many companies employ individuals only part-time after a recession. If you perform well, you be appointed permanently. Don’t get disappointed with your ‘temporary’ post at the outset.

14. Don’t try jobs that are not meant for you

Before applying for jobs, get a better understanding about your skills and educational qualifications. Don’t waste your time by applying for jobs that are not meant for you.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Mark runs the site ResumeIndex.com which provides hundreds of quality sample resumes and cover letters for prospective job seekers.