If you are in the process of looking for a new job, you already know how challenging it can be. When job leads are few and far between, it can feel like fishing. You are putting bait out there and waiting until something bites.
What if you found out that you were using the wrong bait? What if you found out that you were fishing in the wrong pond? It could be true in your job search, and these common mistakes could be putting you further out into uncharted waters.
Mistake #1: You Allow Yourself to Feel Unmotivated
Bad energy can feel soul-sucking, especially when you are doing something important like looking for a new job. Lack of motivation may be the kicker, convincing you not to go to a networking event or not to submit your resume for a position you might actually be perfect for.
You can stay motivated by finding a new direction in your search and being specific about your niche. You should also know when to take a break from the search, stepping back to refocus as necessary.
Mistake #2: Applying for Everything at the Expense of Quality
It may be tempting to apply for every job you see, and it is, of course, better to apply for many jobs rather than just a few. Still, it is essential that you do not apply to so many jobs that you do not have the time to create quality materials.
You still must take the time to write a strong cover letter, for example. Take the time to write a letter specific to each company you apply for, avoiding the dreaded form letter that all businesses can recognize.
Mistake #3: Waiting Around for Answers
It is tempting to apply for a few jobs and then wait to hear back from them, but this is not necessarily the best idea. You should be applying for a steady stream of jobs in the interim so that you are not constantly moving at a “stop and go” pace.
You lose motivation during those times when you are not applying for work, and filling out new applications at a constant pace will allow you to stay motivated.
Mistake #4: Listening to Past Rejections
How many times do you think your favorite authors have heard rejections? How many times have your favorite actors been told that a role simply wasn’t a good fit for them? Some of the biggest successes in the world have faced more rejections than you can even imagine.
Rejection is a part of life, but you do not have to take it as a personal failure. Think of rejections or lack of interviews as lessons. What can you do to improve your cover letter or resume in the future?
Take a look at your materials from time to time to see how you can improve for the next application. For instance, you might learn to pay closer attention to the details of a job description so that you can perfectly cater your application to the employer. You can also improve your responses to common questions with each go-around.
There is no doubt about it: looking for a new job is hard. No matter the circumstances, there is a lot of stress involved in putting your best foot forward in the hopes of moving on in a new direction. This is why education is so important.
Mistake #5: Waiting Until Graduation to Network
Finding your dream job can be challenging. That is why you should start networking from day one at the Interactive College of Technology. You will form life-long bonds with fellow classmates and meet many different people from all walks of life. Start networking and connecting on social media because you never know when you may need to further your career or get advice from an instructor about a job opportunity.
Mistake #6: Being Too Informal with Hiring Managers
It is important to take all interactions with employees at the company you are interviewing with seriously. Whether it is the initial phone interview with the HR manager or even the receptionist that you meet when visiting for your first interview. Everyone in the organization is involved with the hiring process and you want to increase your odds of getting the job by being professional with everyone that you encounter. You never know who is in the meeting to pick the candidates for additional rounds of interviews or when the final decisions are made to hire.
Career Services
We pride ourselves in matching jobs to your knowledge and passion. In addition to helping you build out your resume, prepare you for interviews, negotiate employment offers and prepare you for certifications, we have ties to the community and may hear about a new opening even before the public. We also offer additional career preparation to dress for success, job search resources, what to expect in an interview and much more knowledge to help you find your dream job.
We also offer lifetime career placement support so we can help you find a job after graduation or whenever you need to further your career regardless of how long it has been since you graduated. Our commitment to providing career placement assistance never expires. We’ll start the process before you graduate and work closely with you to help you reach your career goals.
Final Thoughts
Ready to start preparing for your future. Remember not to make these mistakes after graduation. The Interactive College of Technology is here to help you prepare for the job market and learn the habits of successful employment candidates.
Interactive College Of Technology is here to help you understand your needs not only as a student but also as a future professional in the working world. Consult with one of our professionals today to learn more about your educational options.
