How to Apply for a Job: 5 Job Hunting Mistakes to Avoid

Did you know hiring managers spend six to seven seconds reviewing a resume? You only have a limited time to make an impression. Landing a good job is more challenging than you think. After graduating with a bachelor’s degree, it won’t guarantee a job right away.

Searching for open positions, customizing your resume and cover letter, and preparing for interviews can quickly become overwhelming. If you’re not careful, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can sabotage your job search. This article will teach you how to avoid five common job-hunting mistakes. Let’s get started.

Contents

1. Using a generic cover letter
2. Not following instructions
3. Plenty of spelling and grammatical errors
4. Creating a complicated resume
5. Forgetting to follow up after an interview

1. Using a generic cover letter

A cover letter explains your qualifications and interest in the position. It’s typically one page long and tailored to the specific job listing. It’s the first thing that potential employers will notice about you. It should also provide an overview of your professional experience and highlight relevant skills or accomplishments.

Writing an individualized cover letter may seem tedious, especially if you apply for multiple job opportunities. However, a short, sweet but compelling one can get the hiring manager’s attention.

Generic cover letters are a big red flag for hiring managers, showing that you haven’t taken the time to learn about the company or the specific job opening.

2. Not following instructions

Hiring managers look at how you follow simple instructions. When submitting your resume or cover letter, consider the application process. Managers will intentionally leave directions to test applicants.

When submitting a resume or cover letter to the company’s job portal, take your time. If there is a special instruction like submitting a recorded video as you introduce yourself, then prepare for it.

Glam up, dress up and record it with high-quality video. Otherwise, you run the risk of your application getting ignored. This happens in high-volume applicant scenarios.

3. Plenty of spelling and grammatical errors

Prepare a well-written curriculum vitae and resume free of spelling or grammatical errors. Don’t get too excited about submitting your resume without reviewing it. This gives the hiring manager the impression that you are careless and don’t take the time to proofread your work.

It also makes it look like you don’t have a strong command of the English language. This can be a real turn-off for employers, mainly if the position you’re applying for requires excellent communication skills.

To improve your chances of landing a great job, proofread your resume before hitting Send. Ask a friend to review it. It could make all the difference in whether or not you get an interview.

4. Creating a complicated resume

Job hunters often spend hours tailor-making their resumes, trying to make them as impressive and professional as possible. However, this can be a mistake. In many cases, it’s better to keep your resume straightforward. You will also spot typos and grammatical errors when you keep it short but compelling.

Highlight only those relevant skills and experiences to the job you are applying for. Present your achievements using measurable metrics such as the increase in percentage in revenue, the number of people you successfully managed, and the highest sales volume.

5. Forgetting to follow up after an interview

Following up shows that you are interested in the position and willing to put in the extra effort, both of which are qualities that employers value. Additionally, this gesture allows you to thank the interviewer for their time and reiterate your interest in the job.

It is a chance to address any concerns the interviewer may have about your qualifications or fit for the position. You can set a reminder for yourself – either on your phone or on your computer – to send a thank-you note or email to your interviewer within 24 hours of the meeting.

The bottom line

Job hunting is a process that takes time, focus, and energy to be successful. Now that you know the five most common job-hunting mistakes to avoid, you can confidently start your job search. Do everything you can to put your best foot forward.

By following these simple tips, you will be on your way to landing your dream job in no time. So don’t wait any longer. Get out there and start applying today.