Ricardo Barriga

When you start to look for a new role, it is vital to address these THREE FACTORS that may hinder you from getting that new job, even before you begin looking.

1. Inappropriate e-mail address

Make sure that you create a sensible e-mail address that is neither offensive nor makes you look unprofessional. Do not use nicknames, pets, hobbies, etc.

1. Inaccurate LinkedIn profile

Social Media has become more prevalent in our lives. Social sites such as LinkedIn have opened up a new world of networking and created new opportunities to showcase our abilities. So it’s vital that your profile on LinkedIn and other social media sites act as an asset and not a liability during your job search.

It’s no secret that employers are scoping out potential candidate’s profiles; in fact, it’s become commonplace. Employers want to know if the candidate aligns with their CV, whether they are well connected in their sector, and to review their LinkedIn activity to make sure that they are either leaders or contribute to discussions and make an impact in their field.

A quick review of your social media activity can save a life (or your next job).

1. Importance of having a targeted approach

Many candidates who come to the realisation that they want to look for another role, either passively or actively due to circumstances such as a redundancy, decide to take the easy way out and apply using the ‘numbers game’. This involves applying for every role with the same CV and cover letter and hoping for the best. Due to the high number of platforms we now use to apply for jobs electronically via social media, websites, and job boards, it’s quick and easy to apply for hundreds of jobs with a generic resume.

While the temptation is there to apply freely, it is more important to look at each individual role and see if it suits you first. Doing some basic research can help you determine if the company aligns with your values before applying.

While there are a lot more factors that job seekers can change, starting with the three above will assist in not only finding a role but in making an informed decision when it comes to deciding what job to apply for and what not to. Job searching is never easy, and having the support of like-minded peers and a job coach can make a world of difference.