Don’t get yourself in the “no” pile.

Job searching can be a frustrating experience. You might send out scores of applications and only get called for a handful of interviews.

It’s true that some jobs receive hundreds of applications, and competition can be very tight depending on the role. That being the case, it pays to make sure that you get yourself in the recruiter’s “Yes” pile.

Once you get past the first interview, you need to keep up the momentum and present your best self in order to be considered for and offered the job.

So, what are recruiters and hiring managers looking for during the hiring process?

• Evidence that you’ve read and understood the job posting and application process

• Use of keywords that scream “job fit”

•   Demonstrated enthusiasm for the role and organization

• Confidence that your past experience and behaviours will predict your future job performance

• A compelling reason to hire you over other candidates

If you’re not getting job offers, let alone interview invitations, it’s time to take a deeper dive into what’s going on.

Here are some typical job search mistakes and what to do instead:

1.       Skipping a reflection period.

I work with a lot of candidates who want to jump into the job search mode immediately after losing their job. It usually doesn’t help them find a job sooner or the right job.

Regardless of whether you’re recovering from job loss or testing the waters to see if the grass is greener somewhere else, it pays to give yourself some thinking time. At a minimum, reconnect with your strengths and accomplishments and explore what’s important to you in your next role. Deal with any negative feelings about your current situation, and you’ll be in a better place to present your best self to an interviewer.

2.       Applying for every job posting.

There may be some merit in practicing your job search skills. Sometimes it helps to get out of your comfort zone and leap into the job market. But, applying for every job you’re remotely interested in is likely going to discourage rather than encourage you. This is because only a small percentage of candidates get shortlisted for an interview, and unqualified applications tend to annoy recruiters.

Instead, submit fewer, better applications. Take the time to assess whether the job is an all-around fit for you. If you’ve got the basic qualifications and you’re intrigued, absolutely apply. But, if you’re not enthused, be honest with yourself about why you’re moving ahead with an application or take a pass.

3.       Using an outdated resume format.

If it’s been several years since you’ve put together a resume, you’re going to want fresh eyes on it. A lot has changed and hiring teams are more scrupulous and leveraging technology to save them time in the recruitment cycle. Objectives, responsibilities, and references are increasingly passé, for example.

A captivating headline, summary points of what you’re likely to contribute, and clear accomplishments that link to the job posting will take you significantly farther. Make sure you effectively use white space and keep formatting simple so that an applicant tracking system can easily parse it, too!

4.       Skipping a cover letter.

I’ve yet to meet a job seeker who relishes the thought of writing a knock-out cover letter. Still, even if it’s not specifically a requirement of the application, avoiding this challenging task is missing an opportunity to be heard.

Busy recruiters don’t have time to guess why you’re interested in the job – especially when it doesn’t seem obvious, like if you’re applying to a different job or a new industry.

A well-written cover letter shares something that even the most perfect resume cannot: it tells a story about why you should get hired. Here's what else it does:

• Demonstrates your writing skills

• Shows that you’ve understood the job requirements

• Humanizes your application and reveals your personality

• Proves how eager you are to get the job

• Makes the reader want to meet you in person

If you’re struggling with writing cover letters, hire a professional so you can learn how to stand out.

5.       Neglecting your network.

It’s easy to let time pass without connecting with former colleagues, managers, and clients. Still, the best time to nurture your network is before you need one. If you’ve been busy with juggling a family and a demanding job, give yourself some compassion. Then, get on with relationship building.

Make a list of everyone you know who could possibly support your job search and then create a plan to reach out to your biggest cheerleaders first.

6.       Conveying an inconsistent persona.

Whether or not they should, employers are checking you out online! Don’t get yourself screened out by having a colourful online presence (unless the job calls or it) or not one at all. Take the time to review and scrub your social media accounts, adding privacy protections or deleting less favourable posts where possible.

Fun or cryptic email names can work for personal mail but can unnecessarily raise eyebrows on an application. Set up a generic Gmail account before you finalize your resume.

Your professional and personal personas need to line up. Be clear about the company culture and vibe, and make sure you’re viewed as an asset to a prospective employer, not a potential liability.

7.       Thinking you can wing it in the interview.

Interviewing has evolved over time. Relying on a strong resume and your personality — or even a personal relationship with a decision-maker — will not get you to the finalist stage.

The number one key to success in interviewing is adequate preparation. Anticipate a variety of interview formats, styles, and questions. Study the job and the organization, know yourself and your accomplishments and present your value with confidence.

Avoiding these common job searching pitfalls can make the difference between moving ahead in the process or being sidelined. Ultimately, you need to be yourself if you want a job you’ll love but putting your best foot forward can get you closer to getting the job offer.

Lisa Petsinis is a certified Career and Life Coach and former Human Resources Leader who works with resourceful individuals uncover and communicate their brilliance so they can land a job they'll love. Contact Lisa to learn more about her services and her unique insider's view and make meaningful progress in your career starting today.