Applying to Jobs? Top 6 Mistakes to Avoid

With the turbulent economy and "layoffs in the air", many might be thinking of applying for a new job or just having their resume ready in their back pocket! 

It's always a good habit to update your resume regularly- not only to pivot jobs and careers- but also to be ready for "your dream job" when it opens!

Top Mistakes to Avoid when Applying for Jobs

1. Using one resume for every application 

Submitting one resume for every job you apply for is like owning a shoe store with just one shoe size available. You're going to miss so many opportunities that way! 

Read each job description and tailor your resume to it. Recruiters only spend about 6 seconds reading a resume- so they are looking for candidates that match the skills and needs of the role. 

Example:
Job Description - Candidate must have 2+ years of facilitation and advising 
--> You want to make sure that you translate your resume to match the terms of the role. If you have experience teaching and mentoring- this works BUT it won't catch the recruiters' eyes. You must utilize the key words they are using. 

2. Applying to EVERY job

This sounds like it will help, but it doesn't. You are wasting your precious energy when you can be devoting that time to crafting your resume to jobs you REALLY like and see yourself in. I know times are tough right now, but you don't want to move from one job you dislike to another that is the same. Take the time to reflect on what job you really want and pursue that with all of your time and energy.

3. You're applying to jobs you 100% qualify for

YUP. Read that again. If you are applying for jobs you 100% qualify for- you are not dreaming and aiming big enough! Do not sell yourself short. Job descriptions are a list of "ideals". Let's say the JD has 10 requirements and you meet 7 of them- apply! 

Never say "no" to yourself. Let the employers say "no" to you. 

4. Lack of action-oriented words to describe your work experience 

Remember primary school when you did those vocabulary books? That still matters! You want to use the strongest action words (verbs) possible to describe your work, impact, and results. For example, "Worked with a team of 5 people to initiate community fundraising"
-->
"Initiated a community fundraising project serving (# of people) at (non profit)"
"Collaborated with 5 members to spear head community service projects; leading to 30+ programs a year with over 400 participants" 
^ These bullet points above are more detailed, specific, and use stronger action words

Recruiters want to be able to read how YOU do work. Give yourself credit and amplify your impact! 

5. Not listing your unique skills and talents!

These details may seem "small" but they do make their mark! People will often forget the "skills" section on their resume or delete it all together- but don't!

Skills are often what recruiters look for first! Do you know different programming languages? Do you know multiple languages like Spanish or Japanese? Are you certified in any special trainings? Definitely include these in your resume! 

Pro Tip: I recommend putting your skills at the very TOP of your resume after your name and info are listed. That way, recruiters see it first! 

6. Not saving the job description of the position you applied for 

This is a rookie mistake! When you apply for a job: save the job description! Companies (and yes, even LinkedIn!) will take down the post eventually. You don't want to forget what you applied for and then all of a sudden get an email from that specific recruiter! SAVE your job descriptions in a GoogleDoc or in Apple notes! 
-- I know, it's an extra step, but it is better to be prepared than sorry!