Seven Mistakes Job Seekers Make and How to Avoid Them
by Cory Edwards/Sandy Harris

As a federal job seeker it's important that you are persistent and diligent in your job search. As many of you already know, there are a lot of rules and procedures to follow. In addition to these rules, you also want to avoid the following common mistakes to ensure that your application gets read, accepted, ranked and that you get an interview.

Mistake # 1 - Limiting applications to one medium. So many job seekers today believe that if they put their r'sum' on the Internet that all they will have to do is sit back and answer the phone calls. Unfortunately, it just does not work that way! Using the Internet as your sole source of conducting a job hunt is not wise. According to the latest statistics, few jobs (less that 3%) are filled through online means. The statistics are higher for the federal government because more and more agencies are using automated, online systems, however, don't limit yourself to just using online procedures. If an agency requires paper copies mailed to them, but you don't want to go through the hassle, then ask yourself how badly do you want that job. Instead make it easy to apply this way: purchase mailing supplies ahead of time so they are readily available; use 8' x 11 envelopes; do not fold or staple your application.

Mistake # 2 - Not following directions. This is one of the biggest mistakes of a federal job seeker. Make sure to read all the directions in the job's vacancy announcement before beginning to create your application. Allow plenty of time to complete your application. Does it need to be mailed, faxed, emailed or submitted online? Does the application need to be mailed by or received by the job's closing date? What are the requirements of the job? Do you meet them? Are there KSAs that must or should be answered? What information is required on your r'sum' and did you include it? These are very basic elements and if not followed properly, one of the biggest reasons to be rated unqualified for the position. So, take the time to completely read, understand and follow the application instructions carefully.

Mistake # 3 - Sending additional (unsolicited) information. Sometimes applicants include copies of awards, college transcripts and training certificates. Don't send them unless the announcement specifically asks for it!

Mistake # 4 - Not sending all required documents. The other extreme is to not send in the required documents. I see this happen often with online applications that require additional information be faxed or mailed. Again, make sure you fully understand the requirements and application instructions before applying.

Mistake # 5 - Typos and grammatical errors on your r'sum' or cover letter. Your paper or electronic application is your first interview! Make sure you are well represented! There cannot be any grammatical errors or typographical errors. Personnel Specialists reviewing your application are looking to reduce the number of applicants and any excuse will do. Do not give them a reason to disqualify you. Ask everyone close to you to critique and proofread your r'sum', KSAs and cover letter. The more sets of eyes to proofread your application, the better.

Mistake # 6 - Not preparing for an interview. This mistake can be easily eliminated by preparing for an interview the same way you prepared for tests in school. Review your application and the vacancy announcement. Go on the Internet and research the agency. Know what their mission and vision is. See if you can find information about current issues or challenges they are facing. Prepare some well thought out questions. Review your responses to possible questions such as "Tell me about yourself." Or, "What's your greatest weakness?" Have additional stories about your successes and accomplishments ready. Remember to get the name(s) of those who interview you so that you can follow up.

Mistake # 7 - Not following up after an interview. In a recent survey of hiring managers, one manager said she recently interviewed over 100 applicants to fill several positions'she received only one thank you card'imagine the impact of that one card! It seems common courtesies have been forgotten, so stand out from the crowd, send a thank you card, preferably hand-written within two days after your interview. If hand-written is not possible, send an electronic thank you note.

By eliminating these mistakes you will be much better prepared than other jobseekers.

Cory Edwards specializes in federal employment counseling and federal resume preparation. Ms. Edward's affiliation with Federal Research Service is limited to preparation of articles for use in Federal Career Opportunities and FedJobs.com Career Central.