Five Mistakes That Can Deter Your Job Search

Many job seekers make common job search mistakes that can sabotage their chances for securing employment. Consider some common mistakes and what you can do to improve your chances for landing a job.

Neglecting to Build and Utilize Connections

Failing to make professional connections — often by not reaching out to their inner circle — is one of the biggest job search mistakes that job seekers make. In fact, a large number of individuals receive job opportunities through people that they already know — friends, family and members of their professional network. These beneficial connections can be the solution to ending your job search quickly, so don't hesitate to explore your circle for a variety of job leads.

Networking within a company and rubbing shoulders with influential people on board can help you join the workforce faster. In addition, snagging a good internship with a reputable company is one strategy to get your foot in the door and build your professional network. A good internship can lead to a great position if members of the company put in a positive word for you.

Submitting an Average Resume

Using the same stale resume for every position can slow down your job search, but customizing your resume can lead to more job opportunities. Consider what skills and qualities each employer may be looking for to help you create a unique, excellent resume. Focus on adding any skills to your resume that make you a great candidate for a particular organization, and be sure to mention those skills first. Remember to create a separate resume for each job that you apply for to further increase your chances of employment.

Failing to Include Keywords on Your Resume

Forgetting to use keywords in your resume is one of the worst job search mistakes. Making a simple, plain resume does not make you stand out, but what's worse is that many applicant tracking systems are designed to toss resumes that do not fit the employer's basic parameters.

Learn how to get past applicant tracking systems by strategically adding select keywords to your resume. Adding keywords from the job description allows you to optimize your resume so you can get noticed. Bear in mind that an employer may keep your resume on file for up to a year, so creating a resume that includes compatible keywords may help you get a position in the future.

Being Shy About Your Accomplishments

Another job search mistake that job seekers make on their resume is downplaying their career and educational accomplishments. Be proud to share your achievements with employers by infusing information into your resume. Use specific details, share statistics and refer to past projects to show that you are already capable of achieving success at work.

Presenting a Lack of References

One debilitating job search mistake is failing to submit adequate references. A lack of references could indicate to an employer that you lack experience. Modern employers are often prone to contact a job candidate's references to learn more about their general performance and character, so choose your references carefully.

Utilizing the right connections and submitting an excellent resume may not guarantee you the job, but it significantly can improve your chances of getting hired. Place yourself far ahead of the competition by avoiding common job search mistakes.

Photo courtesy of jesadaphorn at FreeDigitalPhotos.net