Experts weigh in on 10 mistakes many first-time job seekers make and how these errors can be avoided:
There’s a lot that first-time job seekers bring to the table. They’re often eager and enthusiastic, technologically-savvy and up-to-date on the latest skills and trends in their desired field.
Yet there is still a lot that new job seekers have to learn when it comes to mastering the job search. Here, experts weigh in on 10 mistakes many first-time job seekers make and how these errors can be avoided:
1. Putting too much weight on their GPA. “[A mistake first-time job seekers make is] believing that high academics is the most important factor in finding a job,” says Stephanie Kinkaid, program coordinator for the Wackerle Career and Leadership Center at Monmouth College in Monmouth, Ill. “Graduates need leadership qualities and the ability to articulate how those experiences have created a well-rounded individual.”
2. Not doing enough research. “Many times, job seekers don’t realize the importance in conducting research,” says Debra Ann Matthews, professional resume writer and certified career coach. “Learn about how to obtain a job … Go to the library and read about job-search tools. Go to your local career center and see what they have to offer. Then take your inquiry a step further — see if these same institutions have social media services.”
3. Not staying up-to-date on industry trends. “Graduates should do research not only on the company to which they are applying, but about the field in general,” Kinkaid says. “[For instance,] if you are entering the medical field, you should be knowledgeable about the Affordable Care Act, how politics affect medicine and social issues.”