With 2022 coming to an end, like many other professionals, may be thinking about looking for a new job this New Year. Whether or not you have started sending your CV out as a job seeker, it’s important to be aware of mistakes you should avoid so you can land your dream job in 2023.
Making mistakes is an inescapable part of being human. However, due to the highly competitive marketing which is particularly heightened by the advent of social media and technology, you cannot afford to make mistakes. The slightest mistake could completely cost you your chances of getting the dream job you want.
With that being said, you must fully understand how to navigate potential pitfalls and avoid mistakes that could cost you the job you want, lead to burned bridges or result in wasted time and efforts in this new year. Here are some mistakes you must avoid in 2023:
1. Searching for jobs without a strategic plan
Searching for a job can be extremely time consuming and draining which is why having a well-defined strategy is important. It makes the job-search process less strenuous, more organised and improves your chances of getting your perfect job. However, a lot of job seekers tend to skip this process and instead jump right into sending applications.
Creating a strategic plan requires some level of commitment and dedication. Firstly, you have to list your career objectives, experiences, abilities and skills. This helps to guide you in the right directions for your job search.
Secondly, carefully select companies you’d like to work for. You can do this by going through their vision and mission statements. Scanning thought their social media platforms and researching information about their executives. Doing this helps you avoid sending applications to time wasters and companies whose ethos and culture do not align with your values.
Thirdly, develop your personal brand. A personal brand distinguishes you from other candidates by aligning your skills and experiences around a personal story.
It could include:
- Create a personal portfolio website.
- Promote your personal projects on your own social media.
- Publish informative articles and blogs posts on professional platforms.
Lastly, arrange a list of companies you have sent your CV to and your respective levels in the hiring process then highlight your next steps.
2. Having mistakes on your CV
One of the biggest turns off for employers is having spelling mistakes on your CV. To a certain extent, spelling mistakes can limit your chances of landing the job. Many people may feel patronized and even insulted when they are told to double check their CV in relation to spelling. There is a shocking number of CV’s received by recruiters with copious number of errors. You must make sure that you steer clear of having CV mistakes if you intend to land that dream job you applied for.
Here are some other common mistakes job seekers make in their CV’s:
- Spelling mistakes and bad grammar. A lack of attention to detail could outweigh your otherwise perfect CV
- Focusing on duties rather than achievements
- Using clichés
- Incorrect information
- Poor format
- Failure to tailor
- Job-hopping and employment gaps
- Too long
3. Failing to ask questions during the interview
The candidate that asks the hiring manager questions during their interview automatically have an edge over other candidates that do not ask questions. This is because candidates that ask the questions shows intelligence, interest and enthusiasm in the role. Three critical characteristics for any seeker to have.
Not only will asking questions impress the hiring manager and may help you land the job, but it is also a benefit for you as the job seeker. By asking questions, you have the opportunity to be in charge, clarify your doubts, and confirm that the company’s culture aligns with your values.
Here are just some questions that you can ask within your interview:
- the turnover like in this company?
- What is your company culture like?
- Is there room for progression in this job role?
- What would you like to see me achieve in the first 3 months of working here?
- How are employees recognized for their success and hard work?
- What’s the next step of this process, and when can I expect to hear from you?
4. Forgetting to follow up after an interview
When you are invited for an interview, you are stamped as a serious contender for the job position in question. Assuming the hiring manager was having a tough time deciding between you and another candidate, a follow-up would give you an edge over the other candidate. Additionally, it demonstrates your enthusiasm for the role and gives you a chance to discuss subjects that weren’t mentioned during the interview stage.
5. Including references without requesting their permission
It never leaves a good impression when the hiring manager contacts one of the references you have included but the person doesn’t know what is going on. It demonstrates a lack of adequate preparation and planning that could cost you the job. Ensure that every reference you present to the hiring manager has been contacted beforehand with their express permission given. Remember to also provide them with enough information including your CV and the job description so they can be ready to speak to your skills and experiences.
6. Searching for jobs only when you are unemployed
Being employed isn’t a reason to stop your job search. Unless of course, you are completely satisfied with your current position and have no interest in wanting something better. Truly, looking for a job can be very demanding, but opportunities are constantly opening, and it is easy for you to miss them when you aren’t looking.