Avoid these Job-Hunting Mistakes When Applying for Open Positions!

Finding a job is tricky enough without making rookie errors that can leave you out of the running. Take a few minutes to create a strategy that covers all your bases. Avoid the carelessness that job-seeking stress can bring and your road to finding a new job will be a shorter one.

Don’t Be Generic.
Unless you’re creating resumes on an old typewriter you found in the attic, customizing your resume and cover letter takes just a few moments. Examine the job posting carefully and connect your experience directly to as many requirements as you can. While it’s fine to create a template for the opening and closing of your letter, the bulk of it should be specifically customized to the position you are trying to win.

Don’t Skip the Cover Letter.
When you’re considering the purchase of a book or a DVD, what’s the first thing you do? Flip it over and read the back. That’s your cover letter. Your resume tells your career story, the cover letter tells a hiring manager why they should bother to read it.

Don’t Fudge the Numbers.
Don’t lie or exaggerate on your application. You will get caught. In the information age,  potential  employers are two clicks away from verifying any claim. On the off chance you make it through and land the job, you’ll likely be found out when you don’t have the skills you listed.

Don’t Apply for Jobs You’re Not Qualified For.
While small differences are fine and can be addressed in the cover letter – they request five year’s Oracle experience and you have four – larger discrepancies are not. If the employer needs a PeopleSoft developer, don’t apply if you’re not one. Even if you are a “quick learner.”

Clean Up Your Online Presence.
Take down or block anything you don’t want potential employers to see. Untag yourself in Facebook pictures, make sure your LinkedIn profile is up to date. Google your name to see what comes up and address whatever you can.

Need some assistance finding the right job? The Squires Group provides short-term, long-term and permanent ERP, IT, Cyber and Accounting/Finance jobs in private and public sector organizations. If you’re seeking employment contact us today and see how our team of talented recruiters can assist you in your job search.