Anyone who’s braved the job market knows how difficult the application process can be. One mistake, and the effort is wasted.
CareerBuilder®’s Chief Human Resources Officer Rosemary Haefner says most mistakes are avoidable.
“Workers realize that the job market is stronger than it has been over the last eight years, and technology is allowing them to pursue new opportunities faster and more efficiently than ever,” said Rosemary Haefner, chief human resources officer for CareerBuilder, in a statement. “But, just because they are able to submit an application easier, doesn’t mean candidates can skip basic steps—or requirements—like submitting a cover letter or customizing their résumés. These items get the attention of recruiters and hiring managers, and leaving them out of the process can hurt a job seeker’s chances of securing a new job.”
One common mistake, according to Haefner, is not customizing a résumé for each prospective employer. Employers can spot all-purpose résumés a mile away—tailoring your résumé to match key words in the job description can make all the difference.
Another mistake job seekers regularly make is not personalizing the application. Haefner says applying directly to the hiring manager not only increases your chances of being noticed, but also shows you’ve gone the extra step and invested time getting to know the company.
Job seekers are also often caught not including cover letter with the application. Cover letters are an opportunity that should not be squandered, Haefner says. A letter allows you to introduce yourself, as well as sell your experience and skills beyond what’s presented in your résumé.
Many job seekers are guilty of not following up with an employer after applying, Haefner adds. This mistake can be significant—often, a hiring manager is overwhelmed by applications, and following up is the only way to ensure they’ve received and considered yours.
One of the most egregious mistakes, Haefner says, is not sending a thank-you note after an interview. Most hiring managers expect a thank-you in some form or another—forgoing this action will not go unnoticed.
Job seekers must take extra care when it comes to all aspects of the hiring process, Haefner concludes. Begin by avoiding the most common mistakes!
Source: CareerBuilder®
Reprinted with permission from RISMedia. ©2016. All rights
