Common Job Search Mistakes

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We recently received an email which said, "I've been out of work for 6 months and don't seem to be getting anywhere. Can you help?". So, following on from common CV writing mistakes, please find below, a selection of the most common job-hunting errors:

Displaying a negative attitude following bad experiences with a previous employer.
Not taking action...lots of people get sent application forms and never get round to completing them. Some people don't think of calling agencies back in the hope that they will call them, remember; successful people make things happen rather than waiting for things to happen.
Not showing total commitment towards your job search. Set yourself specific times / days dedicated for your job search – looking for a job is a big enough job in itself.
Becoming disheartened following rejection. 99% of us will have been turned down for a job. Don't let this get you down and don't think you are applying for jobs out of your reach. If possible, don't put all your eggs in one basket - apply for a few jobs and keep your options open.
Thinking you're too old for the position. This is not true - most companies are actively seeking mature, experienced staff.
Not preparing properly for an interview. Use our interview questions and answers to start thinking of what to expect when being interviewed - there's nothing worse than looking unprepared / uninterested.
Not addressing letters / applications to the correct person. Before posting your application / CV / covering letter, check that you don't need to address it to a specific person / department. Quite often, candidates will send a letter starting, "Dear Sir / Madam", when in fact, it should be addressed to a particular person.
Limiting your job search to 100% online. Many people tend to stick with using well known job sites - try looking in your local yellow pages for recruitment companies in your area. Not every company will have a website, and those who do, may be hard to find on search engines.
Not following up after an interview. Not many people send thank you letters so stand out from the crowd by sending one.
Not returning calls. Surprisingly, many people provide a recruiter with a number to call them on but will not always be available when someone does actually call - don't let this happen. Either make sure someone is around to take your call or check your answer phone messages regularly.
Underselling skills / experience on a CV. Obviously, this is where we can help using our expertise but feel free to use our advice on how to write a CV or common CV writing mistakes for some free guides.

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