What Are the Biggest Mistakes Made by Job Seekers?

Whether you're unemployed and hoping to break into the industry or currently working and looking for a career change, the job search process can be overwhelming. If you're feeling exhausted by the lack of results, check out nine of the biggest mistakes job seekers make. It may be time to evaluate your methods and make a change.

1. Employing a Broad Job Search Scope

Job seekers who search aimlessly waste valuable time in their job search. Before applying for positions, establish your career goals and determine what type of position you want. Focus your search and strategies accordingly.

2. Limiting Your Options

While it's important to narrow your job search, you don't want to limit it to the point of missing out on promising opportunities. Don't hang all your hopes on one potential employer, and keep an open mind about temporary positions.

3. Failing to Explain Your Work History

Some employers may view a job seeker with a varied work history as a job hopper, while other hiring managers may worry about a candidate with a long tenure at one organization becoming complacent. Regardless of your work experience, take a few minutes to explain unusual situations or gaps in employment.

4. Missing Out on Networking Opportunities

Never pass up a chance to make connections with others in your desired industry. Attend job fairs in your area, and use LinkedIn for networking.

5. Interviewing Poorly

Many job seekers look great on paper but create a bad impression at the interview. Think about how you present yourself. Are you dressing professionally? Is your body language sending the right vibe? Are you oversharing? Hold a mock interview with a friend to get some honest feedback.

6. Talking Negatively

Regardless of the circumstances, never badmouth a former or current employer, supervisor or colleague. If the hiring manager asks why you want to leave your current position, simply say you're looking for a new challenge.

7. Sending a Subpar Resume

If you're sending out a lot of resumes and getting no calls for interviews, take another look at this all-important document. Review the formatting, proofread for errors and make sure the length doesn't exceed one page.

8. Choosing the Wrong References

Job seekers should never list another person as an employment reference without first getting permission. Choose professional references rather than personal acquaintances.

9. Focusing Too Much on Your Own Needs

Don't use the interview as an opportunity to tell the hiring manager why you want and need the position. Instead, demonstrate what value you can bring to the organization. Use your unique skills and significant career accomplishments as proof.

You could be hindering your chances of getting a job without even realizing it. Don't set yourself up for failure. Consider this list of the nine biggest mistakes job seekers make to ensure you're not guilty of any violations.

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