Didn’t Land a New Job in 2014? Correct These Mistakes for the New Year

If you did not get an entry level job or other position of employment this year, then chances are your job search was missing something.  What could you have done wrong that turned employers off from you as a job candidate?  What could you have done differently that would have left them with a more favorable impression of you?  That is what you need to figure out going into the new year.  Here are some mistakes that may have kept you from getting hired in 2014.

Being passive about a job opportunity – In your last job interview, did you seem like you were interested in the job and company?  If not, the interviewer could probably tell.  Show enthusiasm about this meeting by presenting the right body language and maintaining your focus.

Knowing everything – While you want to learn as much as possible about a specific position and employer, don’t get so high and mighty that you believe you have all of the answers.  People do not like know-it-alls.  A willingness to listen and learn will take you far in your career.

Failing to prepare – A lack of preparation will hurt your chances of landing a new job.  Do your research on the job and the company, write a quality resume and keep one on hand, practice potential interview questions, etc.  Remember, when preparation meets opportunity, you can find success.

Requesting more than you should – If you are given a chance to ask questions to an employer, avoid any that might seem outrageous or uncomfortable.  For example, asking about time off or starting salary during an interview makes it look like you’re more focused on yourself rather than the job.  An employer is interested in what you can do for them, not the other way around.

Criticizing former employers – Even though you may have negative feelings about previous employers, do not express them when interviewing about the position you have applied for.  Stay positive, and share what you’ve learned that can help you in the job you want.

Job hopping – Have you been moving from job to job lately?  If so, some employers may see this as a cause for concern about your commitment.  However, if you can honestly explain your situation effectively, you may still be considered for employment.

Not improving your skill set – If your skill set is not relevant to what is required to get a particular job, then you will need to update your skills.  Think about going back to school or getting some additional training that will help you compete with today’s job seekers.

Any number of reasons may have kept you from securing an entry level job or other position in 2014.  Take some time to find out what mistake(s) you made that hindered your job search.  Make any necessary adjustments, and you’ll be on your way to landing a new job in the new year.

Our friends at YEC asked their members this question: “When seeking a job at your company, what is the biggest ‘no, thank you!’ mistake a candidate can make?” Here are the answers we can all learn a lot from…

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