We all make mistakes. But when you're looking for a job--especially in a tight market--mistakes can be fatal. Even if you're doing everything else right,
that one little misstep just might be putting you out of the running. Not just once, but time after time.
After time.
Overlooked a simple detail? Become complacent? Let down your guard? Or are you otherwise unknowingly dooming your perfectly employable self to failure in the ongoing job search?
If so, you can make your job search more successful by knowing what not to do. This checklist will help.
Dumb and Dumber: Making any of these stupid job search mistakes?
So get to your point quickly! When you are writing a resume, cover letter or any other document aimed at capturing the attention of a potential employer,
make sure the most hire-worthy facts about you appear somewhere in the first four lines. Any later than that, and they might not see it.
If you find yourself talking yourself down, cut negativity off at the pass by changing your internal dialogue. Focus on your strengths, not your weaknesses--on how well you've prepared for this interview,
not how nervous you are. If this doesn't work, talk to people who can lift your spirits, such as a good friend, or even a group of like-minded job seekers on Meetup.com.
In fact, apply that mindset to everything you post online. Status updates, tweets, Instagram posts, even "likes" and comments. Try to read them as a hiring manager would.
Posting silly cat videos? They'll worry that you will be a major time waster. Making mean comments? You might antagonize your colleagues. Uploading drinking photos? Well, that's just poor judgment.
While you're thinking about social media, check your privacy settings and lock them down. Friends only. Yes, it's boring to think like this. But you want your job search to end, don't you?
Once it does, you can consider a lighter approach. For now, keep it clean and professional.
If you need help rebooting your job search, turn to the experts.