With so much competition, it’s important to avoid common mistakes that could make your application weaker when applying for jobs. The last thing anyone wants is for their application to needlessly end up on the slush pile when they desperately need a job. This article outlines key errors to avoid when job hunting.
Not Tailoring Your CV and Cover Letter
One of the biggest mistakes is submitting generic CVs and cover letters. Each application should be tailored to match the job description and showcase how your skills and experience align with the role. Highlight relevant responsibilities from past jobs and use keywords from the adverts throughout your CV and cover letter – look at different cover letter examples and pick one that’s a good fit for the role. Avoid just listing generic duties. Show how you’re a great fit for that specific position at that particular company.
Being Unprepared for Interviews
Thorough preparation is crucial for interviews, yet many people go to a job interview with no preparation and expect they can wing it. Spoiler alert: this is a terrible idea unless you don’t care whether you get the job.
Here are some tips for preparing for job interviews so you can show yourself in the best possible light.
- Prepare examples of times you demonstrated key skills needed for the role. For each example, briefly explain the context, your responsibilities in that situation, the steps you took to address it, and the ultimate outcome. Structuring your examples as succinct stories will help you effectively showcase your qualifications.
- Research the interviewers if known. Connect with them on LinkedIn to find common ground for rapport. Learn their backgrounds to customise your responses.
- Anticipate the types of questions likely to be asked for that role and prepare accordingly. Expect behavioural questions for soft skills and technical questions testing hard skills.
- Plan your interview outfit so it aligns with company culture and makes you feel confident and professional. Ensure that it’s neatly pressed.
- Compile a list of smart questions to ask the interviewer about the company, culture, challenges of the role, etc. Avoid questions where answers can easily be found online.
- Review the job description again before the interview to refresh your memory of the position’s key responsibilities and requirements.
- Practice aloud until your interview answers sound natural, not memorised. Relax with deep breaths to ease nerves. Confidence and authenticity are key.
- Research the company’s products, services, values and major news. Reference facts you learned when expressing interest or asking questions.
- Prepare for video interviews by testing the technology, lighting, background, audio, etc. Look directly at the camera when speaking.
Including Irrelevant or Old Information
Your CV should only include information relevant to the target role. Avoid listing outdated skills or responsibilities from over a decade ago. Keep it concise and focused on highlighting your most recent and applicable experience and achievements. Only provide the details that show how you’re qualified for this particular job. Anything extraneous just dilutes your experience.
Having Spelling or Grammar Errors
Typos or poor grammar on your CV or cover letter suggest a lack of care for detail. Always thoroughly proofread your job search documents several times and ask others to review them too.
Being Unclear on Salary Expectations
When asked about salary requirements, avoid giving unrealistic expectations or refusing to provide figures. Research typical salaries for that role and company size in advance. Have a reasonable range ready to discuss based on your experience level and location. Declining to discuss pay at all can harm your chances. Be prepared to negotiate for a salary fitting your value.
Applying for Too Many Roles
Focus your job search on roles well suited to your qualifications instead of applying for dozens of random positions. Tailor your application accordingly each time rather than spamming your generic CV. Quality applications for ideal jobs increase your chances rather than quantity of poorly matched applications. Target companies you’re genuinely interested in.
Applying at the Last Minute
Don’t wait until right before the deadline to submit your application for a role. This rush can lead to mistakes and a weaker application. Begin the process as early as possible. That way you can take the time needed to properly prepare each part of your submission. Applying early also helps your CV stand out rather than getting lost in a flood of last-minute submissions.
Avoiding these common errors in your job search process will help your application stand out for all the right reasons. Taking time to prepare a tailored, high-quality application demonstrates your genuine interest and qualifications for the role.
