You’ve applied to several employment postings or have been called in for interviews, but you have yet to receive a job offer. Why is it taking so long to land a position? Consider these 5 common mistakes that may be holding you back from getting hired.
1. YOU DON’T STAND OUT
It’s easy to forget the person who provided standard answers to common questions, dressed down for the interview, or had nothing to say about his or her passion for the position. Get noticed by bringing your best attitude, enthusiasm for the position, and dress appropriately for the interview. Be prepared to ask questions, and discuss why you would be an asset to the team. You should also take the extra step and follow up with a thank you note to ensure your name is top of mind when it comes to making a decision about who should be hired.
2. BLAH RESUME OR COVER LETTER
Have you taken the time to update your resume? Are you tailoring each cover letter to the job you’re applying for? These small moves may not seem like they could make or break landing a job interview, but an outdated resume or a generic cover letter will be overlooked by a hiring manager. Take the time to research resume formats or templates that will help your resume stand out from the others. Read the job description to know what to include in your cover letter, and get rid of the information that is not relevant to the position.
3. WINGING THE INTERVIEW
It’s important to prepare for the interview, and not just wing it. Be prepared with responses to common interview questions, which may include listing your strengths or weaknesses and why there are employment gaps on your resume. You never want to sound rehearsed, but you also don’t want to be grasping for answers to the simplest of questions such as “Where do you see yourself in 5 years?” Being prepared helps to get your thoughts in order so you don’t panic during the interview.
4. NOT DOING YOUR RESEARCH
Learn as much about the company as possible prior to the interview. Research the company’s mission statement, or any recent news about the practice such as a recent hire of a notable clinician or the practice offering new treatments or services. You should be able to respond to questions asking why you want to work for the company, how you will fit in with the team, and why you are passionate about this opportunity that all relate to the company’s overall direction and work culture. Ask insightful questions at the end of the interview to show that you are informed about the company.
5. BRINGING NOTHING TO THE TABLE
Companies want to make smart hires and add someone to the team who is passionate about the position. If you are unable to communicate what you bring to the practice and what sets you apart from other applicants, you may be overlooked. It’s smart to talk up your strengths and how they can benefit the practice.
