When it comes to finding a job, different candidates practice different techniques – resulting in different outcomes. Some candidates or job seekers spend more time polishing their CV while others focus more on their communication skills. Upon browsing the web, you will stumble upon dozens (if not hundreds) of tips related to – ‘How to apply for a job,’ ‘How to crack an interview,’ and more.
Without a doubt, it is easy to practice such tips – but when the time for action comes, most of us make the same common mistakes. The result? We land on the rejected list of candidates, ending that opportunity. So, it is essential that as a job seeker, we have a clear understanding of the “Do’s and Don’ts” of this game. Understanding this will inevitably turn you into a better, smarter, and more capable candidate for the many job opportunities available.
The “Do’s” that matter a lot:
Let us begin by first focusing on the things that you must do as a job seeker. Following the below-mentioned points will undoubtedly increase your chances of being selected for an interview – so take a good look at them:
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Job Search Engines: Rather than just browsing multiple job sites, you should focus on the effectiveness of job search engines, including Google. Utilize the features of job search engines and narrow down your search results as per your requirements – and not the default job display options of job boards. In this way, you will also save a lot of time and effort. When using job search engines, pick a couple of favorite niches and use the advanced search options to get the best and most relevant results.
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LinkedIN: It is true that LinkedIN is a very agile and powerful platform, not only for the job seekers but recruiters too. If you do not have a LinkedIN account, create one immediately. The more established your profile, the easier it will be for you to build new connections – and for recruiters to find you. As a popular online directory for job seekers and organizations, LinkedIN is packed with tons of information that can be useful for you. In short, it will speed up your job hunting prospects. Remember, having an account in LinkedIn is not enough – you also have to remain active.
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Resume: The prime purpose of a professional resume is to project yourself as a strong and capable candidate for the job. Your resume is their first impression of you as a candidate – and we all know that the first impressions poorly gone turn into the last impression. So, if you do not want to ruin your first impression on a potential employer, it is vital to pay close attention to the format and content of your resume. Unless you are a professional resume writer with design skills, a professional resume builder is recommended as it helps prevent you from making mistakes, from simple to severe. A good resume builder that lets you keep your money (so you can spend it on nice interviewing clothes instead) is Shri Resume at www.shriresume.com. We like Shri Resume because it does for free what most companies would otherwise charge you for, including free resume downloads in MS Word.
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Dress appropriately: Apart from your resume, you also need to hone your personality and “likeability skills” to make a good impression. In this regard, the way you dress certainly matters. Right or wrong, we are human beings – and we make quick judgments based on the appearance of a person. As you need to present a professional appearance, refrain from wearing sneakers, flip-flops, jeans, shorts, or sexually suggestive clothing. Lastly, keep in mind that not all hiring managers are “into” tattoos and piercings. It would be better if you can hide those.
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Send a Thank You note: As your impression matters a lot, it can be made better by sending a Thank You letter or note via email to the employer who just interviewed you. When you appreciate the efforts made by the recruiters for conducting the interview session, it certainly makes them feel appreciated, which in turn subtly earns you a place in their mind. In other words, a Thank You note can surely increase the possibility of your being selected from the interview, or scheduled for a second. In the Thank You note, you may also write about the things that you wanted to say during the interview, but somehow missed. Sending the Thank You note within 24 hours of the interview would be the most effective.
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Focus on your Key Accomplishments: Yes, you should not shy away from discussing or writing about your life’s relevant accomplishments. Likewise, nobody likes a “bragger”. Find the appropriate balance by focusing on your career highlights and the qualifications that make you capable and suitable for the job – and distinguishably different from other candidates.
Those were the main “Do’s” that you must keep in mind as a job seeker. Now, let us jot down the “Don’ts” that can sometimes matter even more.
The “Don’ts” that may ruin your party:
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Over confidence: Nobody likes to be surrounded by overly confident people. Presenting yourself as a ‘Jack of all trades’ can significantly reduce your chance of being selected for an interview. Confidence and demonstrating domain knowledge and expertise are essential – but bringing an amount of modesty into the process is also important. Remember, this person also has to like you – so don’t push them away before being selected for an interview, or after the interview.
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Not preparing: Do homework if truly serious about cracking a job interview. Learn basic details about the company, such as who the founders are, company history, mission, philosophy, goals, etc. If it is a publicly traded company, familiarize yourself with their annual turnover, gross revenue, growth rate, and so on.
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Don’t expect too much: Some job seekers get disappointed too soon. It is important to understand that failure is also a great teacher – learn from it. Hence instead of feeling disappointed about being rejected, know why it happens – and “pull yourself up by your bootstraps” and start preparing for the next one.
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Put your resume everywhere: Relying on just one job hunting platform will not provide you with the best outcome. Remember, you have to send and distribute your resume everywhere (of course on relevant platforms only). Don’t be the job seeker that is too lazy to use different job-hunting platforms, resulting in not getting many job interview or offer calls. Use all relevant Platforms and Job search engines.
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Don’t procrastinate: In the professional world, procrastination will cost you everything and “eat up” all of your opportunities. Once you have created a solid and impressive resume, apply for jobs immediately. Remember, there are thousands of candidates already in the race, and crossing the finish line means that you have to first start the race.
Apart from the “Don’ts” mentioned above, there are few minor things that you might refrain doing from. They are mostly related to your body language, use of correct words in your resume, and manners. These aspects cannot be changed or honed all of a sudden. You certainly have to keep working on them. So, follow the tips mentioned above and get more interview calls, have successful interviews, and get job offers. It is your time to shine and have a bright career ahead!
