Even if you really need a job, it is not a good idea to show prospective employers signs of desperation. Hiring managers want to employ confident employees who know their worth, so you need to be vigilant during your job hunt to squash any signs of desperation that creep into your routine. Here are a few signs to watch out for along with some ideas for alternate behaviors that show your professional side.
1. Checking In Too Often
The quickest way to let your job hunt desperation show is by following up on every interaction to the point of being annoying. Yes, it is a good idea to check on the status of your application if you did not hear back from the hiring manager. However, making multiple phone calls requesting information about next steps or sending daily emails about your qualifications are quick ways to be labeled a nuisance. Most importantly, always respect the employer's wishes if they ask you not to follow up. Some job postings get hundreds of replies, and if everyone sent a note or called in, recruiters would be overwhelmed.
2. Overselling Yourself
When you're confident, you don't need to go into a selling mode during an interview. Your job history and answers to interview questions says a lot about who you are. Instead of overselling yourself, show your genuine curiosity and interest in the position. Talk about how you can help the company and how you see yourself fitting in with your new team.
3. Not Asking Questions
When your job hunt feels desperate, it becomes more difficult to ask questions during the interview process. You may worry that the interviewers may judge your need for more information. The opposite is usually true. Questions show that you are genuinely interested in the position and want to know as much as possible about the role.
4. A Lack of Salary Expectations
Not expressing any preferred salary range during the interview process might send the message that you don't highly value your work. It can also be a sign of laziness, because it looks like you didn't make the effort to learn about the expected salary for the position. Avoid lowering your expectations during your job hunt. Keep a fair salary range in mind that is in line with industry norms.
5. Applying for More Than One Job With the Same Company
Applying for several jobs with one company makes you look scattered and uncertain about your own career goals. Instead, choose one position to focus on so that you can target your resume and cover letter towards that position, showing how your unique skills and experience make you the right person for the job.
If you're feeling desperate during your job hunt, take some time to relax and think of your worth each day. Return to your job hunt the next day with renewed determination, and let your talents shine without overselling yourself or becoming a nuisance. Displaying confidence and genuine interest is the best way to show interviewers you're the best possible candidate for the position.
Photo courtesy of Stuart Miles at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Become a member to take advantage of more features, like commenting and voting.
Register or sign in today!