3 Job Search Mistakes That Are Killing Your Chances

3 Job Search Mistakes That Are Killing Your ChancesLooking for a job can feel like throwing pasta at the wall to see what sticks. Conventional wisdom tells us to keep doing everything we can until something does stick. But is that actually helpful? Here are some common job search mistakes that you shouldbe careful to avoidwhile youre on a job hunt. googletag.cmd.push(function() googletag.display(div-gpt-ad-1467144145037-0) ) 1.You apply for jobs that you arent qualified forTheres definitely an aspirational part of job hunting, especially if youre looking to move up. That can be dangerous, though, if it means youre applying for jobs where you know you dont quite fit the experience level the company is seeking. On a basic level, it could mean that your resume gets skipped altogether. If your resume makes the cut and you make it to the next point (an interview of some kind), falling short in experience could get your hopes up for an inevitable disappointment when they go with someone w ho better fits the job description.Similarly, using phrases like fast learner and adapts to any new role in your cover letter or resume may sound like a good way to spin if youre reaching a bit, but you could just be setting yourself up for disappointment and an even longer hunt. . The reach-for-the-stars attitude is admirable, but it might not match up with reality.2.You dont network or grow your influenceBack in the old days, people would find out about job openings in the newspaper, send in a resume by mail (with a stamp, no less), and wait patiently to hear back. The internet has accelerated this process greatly, making it easier than ever to find and identify opportunities. But you know how else people found jobs in the old days? Good old-fashioned word of mouth and recommendations. That part isnt as outdated as the snail mail application process.Job openings are still often filled by candidates who have an in somehow with the hiring company, and search engines just cant replic ate that personal touch. So if you want to be the one with an in, you need to look for a better way into a company. Try to connect via LinkedIndo you have any first- or second-degree contacts who work at your target company? If so, finagle that into an introduction and you can be the candidate with a personal introduction and a leg up.3. Youre too proactiveBeing proactive is great. Being proactive can show youre a go-getter. However, being proactive does not mean constantly reaching out to the HR department for position updates once youve applied or interviewed. I know how frustrating it can be to wait and wait and wait and wait when youre anxious to hear whats going on. Pace your floor if you have to, but dont reach out to HR unless its been more than a week of radio silence. For starters, HR might be in a holding pattern while the hiring manager sees all of the candidates or is simply too busy to wrap up the process. Whatever the reason, haunting HR once a day is not going to ende ar you to the people youre hoping will hire you.If any of these sound familiar, you shouldnt feel badly. Were all guilty of these things at one time or another. Just know that they can slow down your job search and even hurt your chances for getting into the right position. So be patient, be realistic, and be aya that your efforts will pay off in the long run.