We all know that going to college provides a great education and the possibility of a future, but there are some things that you do not learn in college that are important. Job search skills are often overlooked by people who see the ticket to a better future as just a college diploma. A college diploma is important, but it is not the entire picture. In today’s competitive job market it is those who know how to search for jobs, craft winning resumes, and interview like professionals that will get the best jobs.
To help you out in your post college job search, here are the top job search mistakes that will sabotage your chances:
1. Relying on outdated information
Job searching has changed so much within the past 10 years that most sources are out of date and antiquated to say the least. Social media has changed the way we look for jobs and hire people. It is important to utilize up to date sources that have usable information relevant to today’s market place. This means up to date market research, job search strategies, and the like.
2. Listing job duties on your resume rather than accomplishments
How does an employer know if you were successful on the job if you just list your duties? You might have sucked at those duties. Job descriptions belong on a job posting – not your resume. You need to separate yourself from the pack by showing your job effectiveness.
3. Thinking your resume has to cover everything you’ve ever done
Your resume should be a targeted document specific to the job. Your resume should fit like a glove in the context of the job you are applying to. That means you should highlight some accomplishments and skills while leaving irrelevant ones out.
4. Sending resume without a cover letter
Sending out your resume without a cover letter is a waste of time, effort and paper. That might have worked back in the bull market days, but today’s market place demands you send out a cover letter.
5. Too much follow up
You might be anxious, but do not let that make you become an annoyance to the employer by following up too much. Its okay to call if you have not heard in awhile or the date has passed when they said they would contact you. Anymore than that and you risk becoming a pest.
6. Not prepping for interviews
This is inexcusable. Not preparing for interviews is a rookie mistake. Employers can immediately tell those who have prepared and those who have not. Simply not preparing will often rule you out.
7. Using gimmicks
Your qualifications and accomplishments should stand on their own merit. You do not need to use a gimmick such as weird resume paper, sending cookies, and making a video resume on YouTube.
8. Using updated references
You want to make sure you use up to date references that you are in contact with. And always provide up to date contact information.