How to Get Hired and End Your Job Hunt! (Part 1)

Why You Didn’t Get the Job and What to Do Better Next Time (PART 1)

Attending interview after interview without landing the job can be one of the most frustrating and heartbreaking experiences. If you are faced with this ongoing cycle in your life, it’s definitely time to take stock of the situation. You may need to ask yourself: “Am I doing adequate research in preparation for the interviews?….What can I do or say that will set me apart from other interviewees?….Am I conducting myself in a professional manner?” Let’s help you identify some of the triggers that can be hindering you from acquiring your ideal career.  

Reasons Why People are not Hired

1. Common Interview Mistakes

• • Lack of preparation: Failing to research the company, its culture, and the role you’re applying for can leave a negative impression on the interviewer.

• • Arriving late: Being late for an interview is highly unprofessional and can signal a lack of respect for the interviewer’s time. Always plan to arrive early to allow for unexpected delays.

• • Poor body language: Non-verbal cues can speak volumes. Avoid slouching, crossing your arms, or failing to maintain eye contact, as these can convey disinterest or lack of confidence.

• • Inadequate self-awareness: Failing to recognise and communicate your strengths, weaknesses, and relevant experiences can hinder your chances of being considered for the role.

• • Rambling or being too brief: Striking the right balance between providing enough information and being concise is important. Avoid rambling and tangents, while also ensuring you provide enough context and examples to support your answers.

• • Not asking questions: Interviewers usually give you the opportunity to ask questions at the end of the interview. Failing to ask thoughtful questions can make you seem disengaged or uninterested.

• • Speaking negatively about previous employers: Badmouthing past employers or colleagues reflects poorly on your professionalism and can raise concerns about your ability to work well with others.

• • Lack of enthusiasm: Displaying a lack of enthusiasm or passion for the role will give the impression that you’re not genuinely interested in the job, which can be a turn-off for interviewers.

• • Overconfidence or arrogance: While it’s important to project confidence, coming across as overly arrogant or dismissive can rub interviewers the wrong way. Maintain a balanced and respectful demeanour.

• • Failing to follow up: Neglecting to send a thank-you email or note after the interview can make you appear disengaged or ungrateful for the opportunity. Always express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the position.

By being aware of these common interview mistakes, you can increase your chances of making a positive impression and securing the job you desire.

2. Poor Resumé 

Because a resumé represents a concise summary of an individual’s education, work experience, skills, achievements, and qualifications, it serves as a crucial marketing tool in the job application process.

Here are some potential outcomes of having a poor and unappealing resumé:

• • Rejection at the screening stage: Recruiters often receive numerous applications for a single position. A poorly crafted resumé with spelling or grammatical errors, lack of clarity, or irrelevant information may lead to immediate rejection.

• • Missed opportunities for interviews: A resumé that fails to highlight your skills, experiences, and qualifications effectively will not grab the attention of hiring managers. As a result, you may not receive interview invitations even if you possess the necessary qualifications.

• • Inability to showcase achievements: A weak resumé may not effectively communicate your accomplishments, making it difficult for employers to assess your potential value to their organisation. This can result in missed opportunities for positions where achievements are highly valued.

3. Poor Referrals:

• • Negative impression: When employers contact your references and receive negative feedback or lukewarm recommendations, it may create doubt about your abilities and suitability for the role.

• • Lower credibility: Employers may question your skills, work ethic, or professionalism if the feedback from your previous employers, supervisors, or colleagues is unfavourable.

• • Missed job offers: Poor referrals lead employers to choose other candidates who have more positive recommendations, potentially resulting in missed job offers.

• • Difficulty in building trust: Poor referrals make it harder for potential employers to establish trust and confidence in your abilities, which will hinder your chances of securing job offers.

Ensuring a well-crafted resumé and maintaining positive professional relationships will greatly enhance your chances of success. 

Join us for Part 2 as we discuss what recruiters and hiring managers are looking for.Y