Looking for a job can be tough, especially with so much competition today. Glassdoor reports that an average corporate job posting gets 250 applications. However, only around 2% of those candidates receive an interview invitation. With such odds, avoiding small but costly mistakes can make all the difference.
If you are a dedicated job seeker, you should treat your search like a full-time job. Keep track of the time you spend on apps. Be intentional about the roles you apply for. Stay clear on what you want and what you’re qualified to do. Avoid the errors that prevent many candidates from progressing.
Here are five of the most common mistakes and how to fix them.
1. Using the same CV for every job application.
Many job seekers assume that one version of their CV is enough. For example, a candidate might use the same CV when applying for both a marketing assistant role and an HR officer role. The problem? Recruiters and hiring managers want to see a CV that matches their specific role. A generic CV often gets lost in the pile.
Tailor your CV to each application. Revise your professional summary, skills section, and some job duties to match the job description requirements. If the role emphasises “data entry” and “report preparation,” highlight your experience in those areas. This shows the employer you understand their needs.
2. Ignoring job description keywords
Applying without carefully reading the job description is another mistake. Many applications never reach a recruiter’s desk because companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). These systems scan for specific keywords from the job posting. If your CV doesn’t include them, an automatic filter may exclude it.
A job description that includes “project coordination” and “budget tracking” must use those exact phrases. Writing “managed projects and handled expenses” may not be enough for the ATS to pick it up.
Pick 4–5 key phrases from the job posting. Then, weave them smoothly into your CV and cover letter. Tools like Jobscan help you compare your CV to a job description. This way, you can check if your keywords match.
3. Applying without checking the requirements.
In a competitive market, some job seekers apply to every job they see, regardless of fit. While enthusiasm is good, applying to roles where you don’t meet the basic requirements wastes time and lowers your confidence. Employers often prioritise candidates who meet at least 70–80% of the listed requirements.
Example: Applying for a senior-level data analyst role when you’ve only had an internship in the field may not be the best use of your efforts.
Focus your applications on roles that match your skills and career stage. If you do not meet all the requirements but want to apply, use your cover letter. Explain any transferable skills or related experiences that show you are a strong candidate.
4. Skipping the Cover Letter
Many job seekers assume a cover letter doesn’t matter. But in reality, it’s your chance to tell your story beyond the CV. A strong cover letter shows your motivation. It highlights your achievements and connects your skills to the employer’s needs. Skipping it often means missing out on an opportunity to stand out.
Even if the job posting says a cover letter is optional, submit one. Keep it concise (3–4 paragraphs) and focus on:
Why are you interested in the role?
How does your experience match the job requirements?
What value can you bring to the company?
A ResumeLab survey found that 83% of hiring managers believe cover letters are important in their decisions.
5. Not proofreading before submitting.
A single typo or formatting error can make an employer question your attention to detail. Imagine submitting a CV where your job title says “Administrative Assistant” instead of “Assistant.” Small mistakes can cost you interviews, especially for roles that need accuracy.
Proofread every application before hitting “submit.” Use free tools like Grammarly to catch spelling and grammar issues. Better yet, ask a friend to review your CV and cover letter; a fresh pair of eyes often catches errors you missed.
Conclusion
Applying online is tough, but steering clear of these five mistakes can give you an edge. Customise your CV by using keywords from the job description. Apply with purpose. Write a strong cover letter and proofread with attention to detail.
Small changes in your application process can have a significant impact on your job search. They might be the key to moving.
“For more tips on interview success, including tackling strengths & weaknesses, visit this post.” https://wepplyjobs.com/how-to-handle-the-question-strengths-and-weaknesses-in-an-interview/