Let me just share what they are as I had wanted to post a video, but I sounded too bitchy when I tried to express how important it is to NOT make these all too common job-seeking mistakes :)My goal is to help, and so I shall! Sending a resume without being asked for it. This is HUGE. Many of you here sent your resume to me first, asking if I had a job. This isn't how 'job seeking' or 'networking' works. Only send your resume after you KNOW what the job entails. If you don't wait for a position description, you have pretty much knocked yourself out as you didn't get a chance to adjust your resume to the role. AND- no one asked!
Lack of Preparation: Candidates who haven't researched the company or role seem like they aren't too interested. No one wants to spend time reminding you what the position is when there are likely more than a hundred people who have applied after you and ARE interested in the position...
In short, do not answer the recruiter's call (after you applied) and ask them, "What position is this again? I have applied to so many..." It may have worked in a great economy, but not now. When the recruiter calls, ask them to send a copy of the position description in an email and request a link to their calendar.
There's a process for these things, you want to show you are professional and understand the process of job seeking.
Ignoring Instructions: Not following instructions or disregarding specific requests only shows you aren't able to manage job seeking as a process or that you simply don't care. This is HUGE as you are being evaluated from the moment you answer the phone or hit send. Inconsistent Resume: Discrepancies between your resume and your interview responses, such as differing job titles or responsibilities, can raise concerns about honesty. Be sure to explain your situation on "paper" as well as in the interview.
Negative Attitude: A negative attitude, including complaining about past employers or colleagues, can get you knocked out of the process EVEN IF you are a perfect fit. Talking about past employers? Just DON'T! It kills me every time when I want to share that I had a manager who never even spoke to me for my first YEAR under him. I tell myself to ZIP IT and vent to friends. Keep it professional in the interview. Besides, why make yourself look bad for venting to a stranger when you are destined for greater things (and better management). Overemphasis on Compensation: You don't even know much about the job until you are in the interview process. No point in bringing up compensation. Besides, the person who brings up compensation/ pay 1st LOSES. Read "Never Split the Difference" by Chris Voss. Here's the link to Amazon (I'm NOT an affiliate) https://www.amazon.com/s?k=negotiate+like+your+life+depends+on+it&crid=38CZNTOA3EAB8&sprefix=nego%2Caps%2C330&ref=nb_sb_ss_ts-doa-p_4_4 Inadequate Questions: Candidates who don't ask thoughtful questions about the position, company or team may not really be thinking about what life will be like to work there. Ask better questions! No need to ask the manager if they like their job. You aren't applying to their job. A great question to ask is: "Does your team enjoy what they do?" and follow up with "How do you know?" Put them in the hot seat for a change :)
Lack of Enthusiasm: If you seem bored or even monotone in the interview, you will not be winning any gold stars for participation. SOMETHING about the job should interest you, or you are applying to the wrong job.
Inappropriate Behavior: Any unprofessional or disrespectful behavior during the interview, such as arriving late, using a phone, or interrupting, is a significant red flag. Also, DO NOT CUSS. I don't care if the interviewer does it, just don't.
Difficulty with Communication: Candidates who struggle to communicate clearly what they have done in the past will likely fail the interview. Practice with someone, ANYONE, to effectively communicate your experience.Reach out with questions on these! Happy to help!
#opentowork~Cass Murray
