Avoid 10 common job search mistakes

Five out of six Americans plan to seek a new position in 2011, according to a survey of the labour force. If you're one of them, consider the ten common error by job hunters and how to avoid them offered by Kathyrn Ullrich, a Silicon Valley Executive Search consultant and author of strategies for career success (Silicon Valley Press, 2010).

Play generalist cards: design your job search around certain industries and functions: specialised.

Swollen Resumes: employers scan Resumes in seconds. Remove redundant words and phrases to bring your experience and accomplishments in the front row.

Missing your goal: focus on your goals. Know the job you are looking for, what companies are looking for and how you can present your experience to gain people's attention.

Sleep online: get out and connect to your network and the other people you encounter along the way. Share your 15-second "elevator pitch" with everyone, regardless of whether you are on a larger network event or a checkout lane at the supermarket.

Misunderstood network efforts: the first commandment to networkers is: you must not ask for a job while the network. The sole purpose of the network is to seek advice and information.

Preparing for a little — or not at all — for interviews: before each conversation, do your homework on the company, from knowing the Executive team to learning about key industry issues, trends and competitors.

Missed opportunities in social media: employers and personnel consultants look at your profile online: LinkedIn, Facebook and other social networking sites. See the appropriateness of what you post online and take it a step further: present your personal brand. You don't always have a chance to verbally Tell your story (including any time spent between jobs) so tell it online and tout your brand.

Weak communication skills: picking one area of communication that requires your attention, like listening, present, persuade or distilling dregs messages, and commit to improvement. Take a class, hold "practice interviews" with a friend or career coach, or participate in a group, as Toastmasters.

Not to put in hours: Job searching is a full-time position. Not be a part-timer by investing a few hours in the search.

It alone: constitutes a job search teams meeting or speaking on a weekly basis. Together, you can create the structure and support for your searches, as well as help encourage accountability.

[Last modified: 24 Mar 2011 11: 09]

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Copyright 2011 St. Petersburg Times

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