Three very common job seeking mistakes and how to avoid them

There are three common mistakes that are made by the majority of job seekers. Mistakes that will slow your progress when it comes to finding a new job. Here is how you can avoid making these mistakes.

Mistake 1: Not Knowing What You Want

Telling a hiring manager that you are “just looking to move jobs” or “want to get more experience in x, y or z” will not make you seem more flexible and willing. These are red flags for anyone hiring professionals. When you apply for a job and meet a hiring manager or recruiter, they want to hear that you specifically want the job they have advertised.

Before you start applying for jobs get clear on what kind of company you would like to work for, what kind of culture you thrive in and everything job related that is important to you. Consider everything from the salary level to commute and hours of work to team size.  Stay organised by keeping records of the jobs that you apply for so that when you are interviewed you can tell the recruiter what it was that attracted you to a particular job.

Mistake 2: Taking Things Personally

These job seeker experiences may sound familiar to you:

You have applied for an advertised job only to be told it is no longer available because; ‘It’s on hold’, ‘Filled internally’, ‘Long delays’, ‘Staff changes’.

You have applied for a job and heard nothing back. Ever. Like your CV has disappeared into a black hole, never to be seen again.

You have been to an interview with a potential employer but have received no feedback.

These scenarios are all too common. However, take comfort in their commonality. Know that these scenarios are not a reflection of you or your abilities.

The job descriptions that you see are only the tip of the iceberg. Job descriptions only contain about 10% of the job details. There is so much being considered behind the scenes that aren't included. Things being taken into consideration by recruiters and clients include culture fit, job pace, environment and so on.

Do not let outside forces affect your confidence. Confidence affects your performance so your reaction is key. Focus on keeping your momentum going and don’t take these scenarios personally.

3. Mistake Inaction

Don’t kid yourself that you can apply for a handful of jobs and expect to have success from that alone.

Finding the right job takes effort, AND you are not the only person applying.

Avoid inaction by having a clear action plan [Download your Wallace Myers International Job Search Task Template here]. Like this

Write your plan down. Get it done! Repeat.

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