The job market continues to be one of the most competitive in recent years. According to a 2022 Bureau of Labor Statistics report, there has been a 3.7 percent rise in the unemployment rate in the United States alone.
Although this figure is not as high as it was during the Great Recession, it is still a cause for concern for job seekers, especially those just entering the workforce. And to land the job you want, it’s essential to be strategic in your job search and avoid making any of the following mistakes.
Applying to jobs that are way out of your skill range
When you’re job hunting, it’s essential to make sure you’re applying for positions that match your skills and experience. However, it’s common to make the mistake of applying for jobs way out of your skill range. Often, people will see a job posting and get excited about the possibility of landing the gig without taking the time to consider whether they’re qualified. As a result, they’ll end up wasting their time (and the employer’s) by applying for jobs they cannot get.
So, what can you do if you find yourself applying for positions that are way out of your league? First, take a step back and assess your skills and experience. Are there any areas where you need to brush up? Are there any relevant qualifications you’re missing? If so, it might be worthwhile to close those gaps before reapplying.
Especially today, many schools offer learning opportunities for those who want to broaden or update their skill set. One example is the technical-vocational (tech-voc) courses. This learning strand involves a more hands-on approach and often leads to certification, which can help prove your worth to an employer. What’s more, you can accomplish tech-voc college courses online, so you don’t have to put your job search on hold.
Alternatively, you could also look for jobs that better match your skillset. There’s no shame in applying for a position that’s a little less exciting but more within reach — after all, landing the job is what matters most. And by applying for jobs you’re more likely to get, you can avoid the discouragement that comes with being rejected from positions you’re not qualified for.
Not tailoring your resume and cover letter
Another common mistake job seekers make is failing to tailor their resume and cover letter to the job they are looking for. In today’s competitive job market, it’s more important than ever to demonstrate why you are the perfect fit for the role you are applying for. If not, your application is likely to get lost in the shuffle.
A generic resume and cover letter that lists your skills and experience are unlikely to capture a hiring manager’s attention. Instead, take the time to tailor your materials to each job you are applying for. Highlight the experience and skills most relevant to the position, and use language that mirrors the job listing.
Taking the extra time to customize your application materials can make all the difference in landing the job you want. So if you really want to stand out from the crowd, don’t neglect this important step. It will pay off in the long run.
Failing to do your research on the company you are interviewing with
Any job interview is nerve-wracking, and it can be tempting to wing it. However, one of the most important things you can do before an interview is research the company. Not only will this help you to ask informed questions, but it will also demonstrate to the interviewer that you are determined to get the role.
Failing to do your research sends a red flag that you’re not invested and could be looking for any job and not the particular posting the company offers. So, before your following interview, be sure to take some time to learn about the company’s history, culture, and values. Doing so will not only help you in the interview but could also be the deciding factor in whether you get the position.
And with the internet, there’s no excuse not to be prepared. A simple Google search can reveal a wealth of information about almost any company. By taking the time to do your research, you can set yourself apart from other candidates and increase your chances of getting the job.
Seeking a job can be a full-time job in and of itself. And while there’s no guarantee of landing the perfect position, there are certain things you can do to improve your chances. Avoiding the above common mistakes is a good place to start, and following these tips can help you on your way to a successful job search.
