The worst job search mistakes you need to avoid

Being on the job hunt isn't easy, and you might be making it harder for yourself without realizing it! Here's some of the top mistakes that might be hurting your chances.

1. You have too much information on your resume. You only have a few seconds to make a good impression — consider what's most relevant to the position you're apply for.

2. You're only applying online. Although there are many great sites with job postings, make sure you're using your network to find opportunities as well. Over 70% of jobs come from networking.

3. You're not focusing on what you can do for the company. While it's important that the company works for you, you'll first need to prove that you're the best choice for the company — and all of the wonderful skills you can bring to the table.

4. You're casting too wide a net. Focus on finding the right opportunities for you, not just "any job."

5. You don't follow up. Following up is a great way to show your appreciation and include any extra details not on your resume or in the interview.

Have you made any of these job search mistakes before? What did you change and how did you grow from it? What other job search mistakes do you see often?

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5 Comments

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  1. Lynn Williams

    I completely agree with #4! I was staying within a bubble and not casting my net to where it needed to be. Once I did, I started receiving requests for interviews and found a position!

  2. Anonymous

    Here's a dumb question. But how do you follow up when your applying on job search page like Indeed? You are somewhat blindly sending your resume and cover letter to Indeed, then the bots scan it and if you're lucky it goes to the company. What do you do in that case? Who do you even follow up with?

  3. Karen Magarelli

    I often use the job boards as just a listing source, then go to the company site to apply. Once there, you can often find an email or phone number to call for follow-up. This process takes time, but could be worth the effort.

  4. Maria Mullins

    I always see a lot of questions on here, but there are never any answers.

  5. 39

    Not following up? How do you follow up these days?
    Everything is so impersonal it's hard to find a way.

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