Finding a job is becoming an increasingly difficult task these days.
Listed below are some of the most common mistakes that job seekers are doing these days that you must avoid.
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1. Spending Too Much Time on Job Sites
The problem with job sites is that the competition is overwhelming. The ratio could easily be 250 to 300 applicants per job. The odds of your CV being seen are slim at best. Use job sites to register your CV so that it appears in talent search. You should however still spend a few minutes every day clicking on the "Apply" button.
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2. Not Approaching Companies Directly
Not all job openings are published. Mailing and emailing your CV to companies are good ways of having your resume considered before a vacancy is published. Just don't spam!
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3. Being Unprofessional
Funny mobile greeting tunes, funky email addresses, informal language, a blank email with only an attachment are all examples of the things that can turn employers away from you.
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4. Not Applying Directly on Company Website
You should not discount this tactic. Companies usually look into their own database of resumes before heading over to job sites.
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5. Weird Social / Online Presence
In a perfect world, no one has the right to judge your ability to do the job based on your personal lifestyle, unfortunately that is not the case. Employers will look up your social pages. Keep that in mind.
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6. Not Seeking The Help of Family and Friends
11% of all surveyed employees reported that they got a job with the help of someone they knew. Share your CV with your friends and family, your chance might be just there.
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7. Ignoring Small Job Portals
Small job portals have fewer jobs to offer but also attract a smaller number of applicants. It is a ratio game and there is no harm in taking a shot at the smaller sites as well. Also, many employers prefer small sites because they charge less.
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8. Searching For a Job Instead Of a Career
You need a job quickly, I understand. Don't be hasty and accept job offers that are not best suited for you or that are unrelated to your expertise. Specialization pays in the long run. When you do what you do best you get better paid and you enjoy it more. At times you may consider a less paying job but one that you like to do.
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9. Not Being Focused
Focus your search on jobs that are tightly related to your experience and education. You can expand the circle gradually but not too much. Don't waste your time by applying to a wide range of different jobs that are not necessarily related to your experience. It is a waste of your time and the employers'.
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10. Relying on Recruitment Agencies Only
The biggest mistake many people commit. Not only the volume of applicants is big but also there is no guarantee that they will hook you up with a job even when you pay them. It is not wrong to submit your CV to recruitment agencies but not to do anything else is just insane.
