March 1, 2016

The Worst Job Search Advice You’ll Ever Hear

JobMonkey is your #1 resource for cool and seasonal jobs. As part of our commitment to you, we regularly post useful job search advice that we truly believe will help you find your dream job. In the process of researching and writing about job search advice we see and hear some of the worst job search advice ever.Ticking "The Worst" box when rating job search advice

Make sure that you’re not listening to or telling anyone any of this bad job search advice. If you hear any of this bad job search advice, please ignore it.

Here is some of the worst job search advice ever:

  • Always Apply For Jobs In Person – In today’s modern world, everyone is online – including the company where you want to apply for a job. Online job applications help to streamline the process and employers expect to receive an online application.
  • Lying On Your Resume Is Totally Fine – Honesty is the best policy. Do not lie on your resume. Employers will find out.
  • You Need Letters Of Recommendations Before You Apply For A Job – If you make it to the point of the job search where references are needed, it’s more likely that the employer will want to speak to your references.
  • No One Reads Cover Letters – A well written cover letter is your ticket to opening the door to the interview round. Take time to write it and customize it.
  • Mention That You’ll Call And Schedule An Interview When It’s Convenient – Definitely don’t do this. It’s pushy, aggressive, and annoying. You will be contacted if you make the cut.
  • Apply To As Many Jobs As Possible – Many job seekers apply to every job listing in existence. It makes you seem desperate and it’s impossible to customize your resume and cover letter for every position. While you may have more applications on the table, you may not get the results that you want.
  • You Can Complete Your Entire Job Search Online – Nope. You need to go out and log some face time. Build your network because it’s important. It’s best to shoot for a healthy mix of online and offline job searching.
  • Feel Free To Call The HR Person Directly About Your Application – If you need to follow up about a job application, send a polite email requesting more information.
  • All Of The Best Jobs Are Not Advertised – Not true. There are thousands of job listings on the JobMonkey JobCenter and many of them are totally awesome. Although you can find out about some jobs in the hidden job market.
  • Never Take Notes In An Interview – Taking notes is a great way to show that you’re engaged in the interview and that you want to remember the important details.
  • Keep Your Job Search A Secret – Unless your searching for jobs while you’re currently employed, it’s smart to let everyone know that your in the middle of the job hunt. People want to help.
  • List All Of Your Experience On Your Resume – Try to keep your experience relevant to the job you are applying for. It’s a chance to highlight what you can do.

The previous are examples of some of the worst job search advice we’ve ever heard. Please don’t follow this advice.

If you’ve been doing one of these things, don’t sweat it. Just change your tactics from this point out. The job search is challenging and it’s best to focus on what works so that your job search progresses.

Do you need real job search advice? Try the JobMonkey Blog. Are you ready to apply for your dream job? Visit the JobMonkey JobCenter. Best of luck.

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