10 job-hunting mistakes to avoid




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This is your first chance to shine. Don’t spoil it with typos, and ask someone else to read it before sending.
Job ads can be crammed with jargon – research the role carefully to check you fit the bill.
Most employers now check social media profiles, so make sure your privacy settings keep last weekend’s party pictures hidden.
Stay in touch with former teachers and colleagues – you never know who could help with a reference or heads-up on a potential job.
You probably won’t be successful with every application, but don’t be disheartened. Ask for feedback and put it to work in the next one.
The internet lets you research companies at the touch of a button, so you have no excuse for not understanding the role or business at interview.
Following up after an interview is good practice, but being pushy and over-familiar isn’t. Think more ‘distant relative’ and less ‘best friend’ when communicating with potential employers.
Just because a job isn’t listed, doesn’t mean there aren’t opportunities. If you really want to work for a company, approach them directly to make your case.
Think of new ways to get noticed. I know of someone who got their dream job by turning her CV into a Vine!
There are lots of resources available to help you with your job search. Family, friends, teachers – and LifeSkills of course.
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