Don’t blow your next job application with any of these rookie mistakes. Ensure you’re giving yourself the best possible chance at that dream position and pay attention to these common job application mistakes.
1. Applying for too many jobs
When you’re searching for job opportunities, it’s good to keep an open mind and cast a wide net. That said, each job application requires time, energy, and research. If you’re valuing quantity over quality, step back and try to prioritize the positions that interest you the most.
2. Turning in a generic resume that hasn’t been tailored
Each job application requires a slightly different resume. It’s crucial to investigate what exactly a job entails so that you can highlight your relevant experience on your resume. You may not be shifting around much on your resume, but it’s still important that each time you apply for a job, you’re sending in application materials that are catered to a specific position. If you’re not sure how to model your resume, look online for the CVs of professionals in your career that are a few steps ahead of you. Copy what makes their resume successful and then make it your own.
3. Including errors on your resume
Your resume should be 100% accurate without any mistakes, typos, or misspellings. That means it’s probably a good idea to give it a thorough edit 3 or 4 times before you send it in. It may also be worth asking a trusted friend or family member to look over it. You never know what tiny mistake you might have missed.
4. Having too much information in your cover letter
A cover letter should let you expand on your work experience, professional aspirations, and accomplishments – not be a tell-all history of your life. A cover letter should be succinct, straightforward, and always relevant to the position you’re applying for. Keep it to one page.
5. Missing the deadline
If you can’t follow directions and turn in a job application on time it shows a lack of commitment and responsibility on your part. You don’t want to come off as unprofessional from the very start.
6. Refusing to write a cover letter
Refusing to write a cover letter will lower your chances of getting called in for an interview. It’s a fundamental element of a professional introduction during the hiring process. Even if they aren’t asked for, cover letters are an important tool that can help a job candidate explain their experience and why they are interested in a position.
7. Not following instructions
Pay close attention to each job and what application materials are asked for. Following these instructions correctly is an important part of your application – it tests whether or not you can follow directions, an important skill for any job. If you have any questions about the job application or what to turn in, it’s best to reach out to the hiring manager to clarify any uncertainties.
8. Not applying to enough jobs
Going overboard with job applications can end up setting you back, but so can not sending out enough applications. Dedicate a few hours each week towards finding open positions and then narrow down your list to 2-5 jobs you can apply to each week. It’s important that you’re sending in quality applications, but make sure your resume is in enough stacks. Applying to jobs can be time-consuming – many consider it a full-time job in itself.
9. Applying for positions you’re clearly unfit for
Be smart about where you’re spending time applying to. If you don’t have a shot at a position – like it requires 5 years of experience and you have 0 – move on and look for something that is a little more catered to your prior experience.
10. Not following up
Always take the time to reach out and thank your interviewer. It’s a gesture that could help give you the edge in a competitive search for candidates.
11. Forgetting to line up your references
Make sure your references know you’ve listed them as references and that all of their information is listed correctly. If their job positions have changed, include whatever position they held when you were working with them as a way to contextualize.
