Looking for employment isn’t typically an enjoyable task, so reducing the amount of time spent on it is valuable. However, there may be a few things you are doing as a job seeker that are sabotaging your efforts, which can extend your job search and reduce your chances of finding your next job. As a provider for staffing solutions, we help people avoid the pitfalls. Here’s a look at three of the worst ones.
- 1. Submitting the same resume to every employment posting
We recommend that you have several versions of your resume to fit the job postings. For example, a management or assistant manager job in a retail store should have a resume that focuses on those tasks, rather than the time you spent in a call center.
Read the job post and see what qualifications it requires and highlight what matches in your cover letter or even in a statement at the top of your resume. Make sure all the skills they are looking for are clear to find on your resume, including using the same words if possible. For instance, state that you have experience with Microsoft Word, instead of simply “computer skill.”
Many employers are searching through several candidates, so when the job seeker makes it easy for the hiring manager to connect the dots, it is a win-win.
2. Ignoring your LinkedIn profile
Make sure your LinkedIn profile is as complete as possible, including job history. Change your headline to the title you are looking to have and mark that you are a job seeker looking for employment opportunities.
Have a professional headshot and double check your spelling, grammar, and punctuation. Employers may look at your profile to determine the breadth of your experience, so treat it as an extended resume. As a side note, keep other social media posts PG-rated or private, so potential employers aren’t swayed by information they see there. Remember, what you post socially is public information.
3. Not using your connections
Who do you know and have you asked them for a connection? Studies show employee referrals lead to more hires than non-referred candidates.
“When you’re coming in recommended by a current employee, the company has a better sense of who you are…and you likely have a better sense of the company, too.” (Source: Business Insider: Who You Know Effects Your Chances of Landing a Job)
The same article notes that staffing agencies also have above-average results in employment placement. Are you working with an employment agency? They can be a valuable resource to connect you to the employment opportunity you desire and end your career as a job seeker.
If you are in job search mode, let Colorado Network Staffing (CNS) help you find your next employer. CNS is a leader in staffing, staff augmentation, and contract management by acting as a sole human resource provider for our clients. We are continually looking to fill employment opportunities with the right fit for our clients in a variety of industries. CNS has the experience, resources, and top-level management expertise to place the right candidates with the right employers. Search our jobs and apply today.
