Throughout your career and your job search in particular, there will be many situations where you will be given one chance to make a good first impression and one chance only. As recruiters, we have seen it all – from turning up late (or not at all) to an interview and bad-mouthing previous employers to aggressively demanding that a job be offered to you.
We have compiled a few common mistakes you might make throughout the job search process and how you can avoid these to make sure you stand out – for the right reasons!
- Always be diplomatic
We understand that sometimes you don’t leave your last job on the best of terms – but it is imperative you are diplomatic about this in interviews. Bad mouthing your previous employer in an interview with a prospective new employer will leave a bad taste in their mouth and raise questions of your employability. Also, while it is good to follow up and thank your interviewer for meeting with you, do not aggressively chase your recruiter or the employer if it’s a no – if they do change their mind you will be the first to know but chasing them excessively may retract a potential change of mind.
- Be honest
We cannot stress this enough – in such a small industry, hiring managers and recruiters are highly likely to uncover any fibs you disclose on your CV or in interview. A simple reference check with a past employer will often uncover any discrepancies, and if your prospective employer finds out you have stretched the truth on your application, or in interview they will likely question how trust worthy you are.
- Be courteous
Simple manners are imperative to your job search and interview process – often candidates will forget that there are many different stakeholders throughout the process that may have an effect on your eventual offer of employment. This includes notifying your referees that potential employers or recruiters may be contacting them – it is not uncommon for employers to be surprised and even miffed when they are called for a reference they had no idea about. Be polite to all people you come into contact with throughout your job search – from recruiters to the interviewers receptionist, you never know who will have a say in your potential job offer.
