24 Reasons You Didn't Get the Job
So, you are on the search for a new job. But, you're not getting interviews, or if you do, you aren't being called back. Here's a checklist of the common mistakes people make that quickly get them deselected for a post:
- The more you network the more chance you'll have of getting a job, build your network and work at it and in it regularly.Find a mentor to help you with your job search. It's effective and valuable.
- Make sure your email is reputable, don't give them 'lovesabeer@bt.co.uk
- Ensure all your private stuff on social media sites is kept that way, don't allow potential employers to see you fooling around. They will Google you.
- Keep your CV short, sharp, relevant and tailored to the job description, no-one has the time to read long scripts and a hirer will bore easily within just a few seconds and your time could be up.
- Make sure the CV fits the job description or you'll be wasting your time.
- Focus, focus, focus. The more targeted and defined you are in your search the better it will be.
- Be sure that your work history is accurate, don't be caught out in fibs, because people will check you out with your referees.
- Research the company thoroughly so that you can ask appropriate questions and suggestions.
- Hold back on the cologne or perfume. Some people are allergic to too much scent, so be very sparse with its application.
- Nerves may make you gabble, slow down, take a couple of seconds to pause before you answer any question.
- Ladies, don't overdo the make-up and keep skirts to knee level.
- Dress to match the job description. Don't try to be clever by being different -- it won't work. Think about your personal brand and ask yourself if someone would really buy you for your promise of value.
- NEVER be late.
- Are you slouching in your seat? Sit well back in your seat, but lean slightly forward to show interest, both feet on the floor, crossed legs can look arrogant.
- Your eye contact might be dodgy. If you dislike making direct eye contact, practice doing it. People interpret lack of good eye contact as shifty. Keep a warm eye contact, but don't overdo it or stare at them like a rabbit in headlights.
- Perhaps you're asking too many questions. Listen carefully too, and don't overwhelm them with queries.
- Never allow yourself to be accused of arrogance. Younger people can be thought to be too full of a "What's in it for me?" attitude and older candidates might be seen as too fixed in their thought processes and expecting unrealistic salaries.
- Never assume, unless told differently that you're on first name terms.
- Never wing it. Make sure you have fully researched the business and have the appropriate understanding of what they need.
- Yes or No are not sufficient responses to questions, have some examples to support your answers.
- Never disrespect your past employers, even if they deserve it. Make it a positive statement about your experiences with them and show what you learned from them.
- Ask open questions that show you are really interested, such as: "Where could I go within the company if I prove myself in this role?"
- Never forget to write a 'thank you' note for the interview even if you didn't get the job, it will leave a very good impression for your chances further down the line.