Jobs in Zambia and Zimbabwe

5 Common Job Application Mistakes and How To Avoid Them

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Avoid these 5 common interview mistakes and significantly improve your chances of application success.

1. Application instructions

Following the application instructions provided is vital when applying for jobs. Application instructions are often listed at the end of the job advertisement and could be the difference between your application being accepted OR instantly rejected. There is little point spending time crafting an amazing application only to send using the wrong method e.g. sending a CV when they have requested that you complete an application form.

2. Leaving out information

Many employers use a scorecard system to rate your application against other applications. Failing to provide information requested by the employer could result in a failure to score enough points to gain an interview. Try to ensure that you provide the information requested by the employer when applying for a job.

3. Late applications

If you fail to submit your application by the closing date your application might be instantly rejected. Try to put aside a little time each day to look for jobs. This way you are more likely to find new jobs as soon as they become available.

4. Same applications

When applying for jobs you need to show the employer that you are the best candidate for the job. In order to do this, you will need to change EVERY application to ensure that you meet the requirements of the role. If you do not change your applications you are relying on luck to ensure that your applications meet the requirements of the employer. Try and spend more time on producing fewer high-quality applications rather than lots of poor quality applications.

5. Nothing?

It could be worth considering that there is nothing wrong with your applications. There are many excellent candidates looking for employment, so whilst you may have the right skills and experience you still may not get an interview. If this is the case it is important to stay positive, keep trying and keep applying.