Not Getting A Job In 2017? Here Are 5 Mistakes You Are Making In Your Job Search

By Lilian Wamaitha

Its five months to the end of the year and you are still job less. January came, February and now we are almost going to the polls. You have sent out hundreds if not thousands of application and nothing is forth coming.

The idea of giving up can’t even register in your mind. You would want to give up and start your own business but you don’t have the capital to do that. You don’t even have a viable business idea that you think will work  . Your only hope lies in getting a job, saving and venturing out to make it on your own.

If this is you, here are mistakes you’ve been making in your job search which explains why you still can’t land a good job despite your friends getting employed from left to right.

Must Read >>> Understanding The Hidden Job Market 

Job Search Mistakes You Are Probably Making

Mistake #1: You are relying too much on online platforms

Sure there are so many job sites nowadays advertising jobs on a daily basis but as man can’t live on bread alone, you sure can’t just rely on applying for jobs online only.

Think about it, how many people have seen that advert and have already sent their applications before you have compiled your CV.

I spoke to Ms. Muthoni Ndegwa, a Recruitment Manager at Corporate Staffing Services and she was of the idea that while online platforms work, there is a lot of competition and a need to do more.

Sometimes just go out there and walk into that office with your application and request to apply for the job you saw advertised. Your guts will get you an audience and your CV will be reviewed.

If you have to use online means only, for one reason or another, ensure you make a follow up after sending your application. They will look at your CV and who knows, you might end up being shortlisted.

Mistake #2: You are using a generic CV or cover letter

There is something called tailoring your CV to match the job you are applying for. When recruiters advertise a job, there is something specific they are looking for in the applicants.

Go through the job descripting and highlight those skills or competencies that you have that you think are important to the recruiter.

Mistake #3: Overlooking the job description

Like I said earlier, it’s not just about applying for a job. You need to understand whether you have what it takes to perform the tasks. Recruiters don’t want to waste their time going through an application that does not meet the qualifications.

Therefore, only apply for jobs that you are absolutely sure you qualify for. Not getting jobs this year? Take a look at the kind of jobs you have been applying for and you will see some truth in what I am saying.

Mistake #4: You don’t network enough

How many people do you know working in companies you would want to work for? Do you have an active LinkedIn account or is most of your time spent updating your status on Facebook or Instagram. If you are serious about getting a job, networking should have been one of your resolutions this year.

It’s not too late though. With these few months remaining, create networks that matter. Connect with people who can help you land a job. The job market world is not an easy one and you cannot do it alone.

Mistake #5: You don’t prepare for job interviews

You may have been lucky to get one or two interviews out of the hundreds of applications but you still don’t have a job. The explanation is that your interview skills are wanting.

“Most job seekers take for granted interview preparation which ends up ruining their chances for a good job,” says Ms. Lucy Mutungi, a Professional Interview Coach at Corporate Staffing Services.

Interview preparations goes beyond knowing what to wear and arriving early at the venue. If you find that you get interviews but no job offers, I believe it’s about time you considered interview coaching.

It’s a tough year with the elections and everything, but companies are still hiring. Knowing what you want and doing everything in your power to achieve it, will give you more enthusiasm to be better at job searching.

Lilian is a Communications and Digital Marketing Officer at Career Point Kenya. Email her at lilian@www.careerpointkenya.co.ke.