Job searching is all about being careful. Be careful about what you write, what you say, how you apply, and how you pitch your qualifications to employers. Done right, it will help you get hired. Done wrong, you’ll make your job search much more of a challenge. Review some of the most common mistakes job seekers make so you can avoid making them. Keep your cover letter concise and focused on why you are the right fit for the job and worthy of an interview. Take the time to write a targeted cover letter and match your qualifications to the job, so the employer can see why you’re a good candidate. It’s important to take the time to match your qualifications to the job description. It’s up to you to show the hiring manager why you’re perfect for the job. Leave the guesswork out of the equation. It’s important to research the company and the workplace, or ask if you’re not sure, so you fit in with the employees that you will be working with if you’re hired. What you are wearing is the first thing the hiring manager will notice, to be sure to make the best impression. Focus on making a match between yourself and the job, not on why you want it. Saying too much can knock you out of the candidate pool. However, there are some interview mistakes that are easily avoidable. Review this list of frequently made interview blunders, so you can be sure not to make one of them. Get a list of references ready to provide to prospective employers in advance, but don’t include them on your resume. Rather, create a separate list you can hand out to employers who ask for them. Following up also gives you a chance to mention anything you wish you had said during the interview.
