Job Search Advice

Here are ten common job search errors to avoid, courtesy of Point Park College's Office of Career Development:

1. Lack of a specific goal. Many job seekers have a goal that is far too general. The more specific your goal is, the easier it will be to find.
2. Poorly done résumé. It must be very short, impeccably typed, and easy to read. It must be relevant to the position for which you are applying.
3. Not doing company research. Knowing which companies to approach is half the battle. Employers expect you to know what you want.
4. Not targeting and courting the best prospects. List your best 10-30 companies, and pursue them.
5. Not using all avenues and/or contacts. Don't rely only on the ads and on the advice of a few friends. Some additional avenues might be: trade and professional organizations, civil service offices, libraries, temporary firms, search firms, local employment offices, college career and/or placement offices, former teachers and employers, and relatives, neighbors and acquaintances.
6. Poorly done or "generic" cover letters. Write simple, concise, honest business letters stating your interests. Try to address them to a specific person; take the extra time to find a name by research or by calling the company.
7. Lack of assertive follow-up. Don't assume that no response is a negative response. Several phone calls or letters displaying your interest may be necessary both before and after the first interview. Never give up. Never. Never. Never.
8. Lack of enthusiasm and interest. The nervous job-hunter often forgets to display enthusiasm in letters and in the interview.
9. Lack of self-confidence. Self-confidence during an interview is one of the most important traits sought after by hiring companies.
10. Trying to appear as what the company wants. Be honest, and be yourself.