The pandemic has radically changed the world. Even people’s careers are not spared. Many people have been laid off as businesses try to mitigate further economic losses. There is a rapid increase in the pool of jobseekers vying for limited vacant positions.
As businesses and jobseekers alike strive to recover, they were left with no choice but to adapt to the new normal. One significant change is in the recruitment process. Online platforms are now utilized to publish vacant positions, receive applications, and conduct examinations and interviews.
Job seekers, especially the non-tech savvy ones, are challenged to cope with and stand out amidst these technological changes. Moreover, recruiters have also restructured their preferences when looking for the best candidate.
Hitting two birds in one stone, here are the common mistakes job seekers make for you to avoid and in order to leave favorable impressions to recruiters:
Initial screening
Asking details of a job ad when it is comprehensively written
Most hiring ads are now posted on famous job sites such as Indeed, Jobstreet, Jora as well as social media sites like Facebook and LinkedIn. Usually, these ads have complete details of the vacant position. Messaging or commenting in the ad “How to apply? Or Details please” implies that you did not read the ad in the first place. Make sure to read the post first and only ask for details that are not included in the ad.
Sending an outdated resume or with falsified information
Resumes or CVs are your entry tickets to the job. It should be updated from time to time and must include only truthful and relevant information. Recruiters would not want to see a high school achievement when you already have more than five years of experience. Also, background checking nowadays has become stricter leaving no room for made-up skills and accomplishments.
Overselling of self in the cover letter
Recruiters are flooded with tons of emails every day. Keep your cover letter brief but not empty. Usually, they do not have time to read a lengthy email. So, emphasize your skills aligned with the open position without sounding desperate to get the job.
Employment tests
Not showing up and rescheduling multiple times
Commitment is one of the values recruiters find in job applicants. Not attending to the scheduled examination would reflect your attitude if you were hired for the position. Unforeseen circumstances like power interruptions or internet connectivity issues are valid reasons but do not overuse this excuse.
Job Interview
Coming unprepared for interviews
Even in face-to-face interviews, coming unprepared would really turn off recruiters. Despite having virtual interviews, you must still conduct research on the company and position you are applying for. Test your internet connection and gadgets multiple times before the scheduled time so you may opt to reschedule if you encounter technical difficulties. Most importantly, wear appropriate attire even at home.
Asking the wrong questions or giving offensive answers
As much as you want to excel during an interview, there are limitations as to how much information you should know and give. Only during this time will recruiters assess your attitude and skills, giving you advantage over other applicants. Be confident but not too confident. Also, be conscious of the words you express in a way that will not offend anyone. This is also the same when asking questions. Read our previous blog to gain some insights on what to ask to recruiters.
Post-interview
Not following up status or following up too often
This is frequently overlooked by job seekers. If you wanted that job badly, follow up so you will remain in the recruiter’s mind. Simply thanking the entire staff for their time and reiterating your skills will suffice. Keep track of the number of days mentioned for evaluation. Following that, you may ask the company for an update. Don’t make this a daily habit or you will leave a negative impression.
Job offer
Unrealistic salary expectations
You have finally gotten the job offer you’ve been waiting for. After scanning through the contract, you frowned for your salary is below your expectations. Remember that if you are recovering from pandemic repercussions, so are the businesses. The best way to approach this is to have a break-even point.
Even if the pandemic ends, these changes will undoubtedly persist. Avoid the aforementioned mistakes and you might ace the recruitment process.
Want to try?
Apply with us and we’ll be the judge.
See our vacancies here: https://growforwardjp.com/careers/