When searching for a job, it's natural to get stressed. However, many job seekers put too much time and energy into details that don't even matter. Rather than over-thinking every decision, focus on the factors that are most important. Consider this list of 10 things that employers don't care about to help reduce your stress during your job search.
1. A Formal Greeting
Many job seekers stress about addressing their cover letters to a specific person, but it's not a necessity. If you can get the name through a simple phone call, that's great. If you can't, "Dear Hiring Manager" is acceptable.
2. A Snappy Cover Letter
Don't waste your time trying to craft a creative cover letter that's clever, witty and completely one-of-a-kind. A professional document that demonstrates why you're the best candidate for the position is all that's necessary.
3. A Unique Resume
You don't have to think outside of the box when it comes to your resume. A clean, professional format is appropriate. Avoid flashy fonts and over-the-top formatting.
4. The Perfect Length
A lot of job seekers spend hours finessing their resumes and trying to ensure the document doesn't go over one page in length. Don't let this detail get to you. If you have an extensive work history or impressive, relevant skills, it's okay to turn in a two-page resume.
5. An Impressive Alma Mater
Don't feel bad if you didn't go to an Ivy League school. Most employers are more concerned about the job seeker's area of study rather than where he went to college.
6. A High GPA
You should be proud of that 4.0 grade point average, but a lot of employers don't even give it a second look. They're more interested in the leadership experience you obtained.
7. Your Extensive Work History
If you've worked a lot of jobs over the course of your career, your resume could get rather lengthy. If it's relevant to the position for which you're applying, by all means, include it, but don't include those summer life guarding jobs from 15 years ago.
8. Your Year Abroad
You probably learned a lot during your year abroad in Paris, but most potential employers are not going to be impressed by that detail. Unless you're applying for a position with a firm that has international ties to France, leave the experience off your resume.
9. Insignificant Interview Mistakes
It's typical for job seekers to be nervous in interviews, so don't beat yourself up over small hiccups. If you stumble over a response, simply apologize and move on with the interview.
10. Your Thank-You Note Style
Some job seekers fire off a quick thank-you note through email, while others take the time for a handwritten correspondence. Don't fret over this decision. Either response is acceptable, just make sure you extend the courtesy in some form.
Job seekers, check this list to ensure you're not wasting time and energy on things employers don't care about. The job search process is already stressful. Don't add to the stress by worrying about minute issues.
Photo courtesy of iosphere at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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