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10 job hunting pet peeves... and how to deal


We all know finding a job is a job in itself. There's so much to do! Attend networking events, plan for job fairs, print twenty copies of your resume, and apply, apply, apply! Whew! I'm tired after reading all that. We've all been through the not so fun side of job-hunting, which can be discouraging. Find out what you can do to make the not so fun tasks more bearable.

1. "*REQUIRED FIELD"

You've uploaded the perfect resume (hopefully designed by me *wink wink*), only to scroll down and see about a hundred rectangular fields across your screen. Why'd they give you the option to upload a resume, only to require you to enter each individual bit of information? So tedious, right? You'd think that with the advancement of today's technology, there'd be easier options...

2. HEADING TO FEDEX EACH TIME YOU HAVE AN INTERVIEW

In addition to picking out an interview outfit and trying to make sure you've got the right location, it can become a task to head out and print out a few copies of your resume. If you're applying for the same type of positions and are at a pretty stable point in life, print off a bulk amount of resumes at once. That way, when interview opportunities pop up, you'll be ready to go.

3. GETTING A JOB ALERT, THEN FORGETTING TO APPLY FOR IT

The 'favorite' and 'flag' options should be your best friends during the job search process. When the position of your dreams pops up, you don't want to have to search through your emails and timelines with no sign of it. If you're getting job opportunity emails, flag them as soon as you glance over them. If the company you follow on Twitter tweeted a job application link, favorite it for later. If you came across something on Instagram, go ahead and screenshot. If you really want to be on top of your game, connect with your favorite companies and job databases on multiple platforms so you don't miss a thing. Yes, that means subscribing to emails, too. Yes, they can be annoying. What's more annoying is not having the job you want.

4. FINDING YOUR DREAM JOB LISTED WITH NO SALARY

It's not all about the money, right? When you're working two part time jobs and are on job opportunity #6, it actually kinda is. It's can be unnerving to apply for a job and not know what you're getting yourself into. This is where research comes into play. Do as much research as you can on the company and the position. Glassdoor, LinkedIn, the company website and several other websites can provide insight. If you still don't have any leads, make sure you've researched the position enough to know the average salary. That way, you can leverage that information in your interview.

5. WAITING WEEKS TO GET AN EMAIL ABOUT YOUR APPLICATION

You're probably thinking, "Just offer me an interview already!" It doesn't always work that way. Make sure your follow-up game is strong in the meantime. You've already sent your perfectly designed resume and even submitted a cover letter. Your best bet is to send a follow-up email one week after your initial application submission. Express your gratitude for the company's time, touch on a few points from your resume, and let them know that you are still interested and excited for the next steps. It doesn't hurt to call if you don't hear back within a few days, and you can also send another follow-up email 2 weeks out.

6. EVERY JOB POST IS STARTING TO LOOK THE SAME

It's been 3 weeks and you've seen the same qualifications, over and over. You thought you were qualified, but by the looks of your inbox, it seems that the outside world may think different. Don't be so hard on yourself. These things take time. Take a break from the computer and dive into your hobbies. Give yourself a few days and return to the screen with a fresh set of eyes and a new attitude.

7. COVER LETTERS

You mean, you want me to type out a complete letter about my qualifications when they're clearly listed on my resume? Such a drag, right? To avoid typing out a million cover letters during your job search, tailor your cover letter to one position. You can edit it as needed for each company.

8. FINDING AN INTERVIEW OUTFIT

The frustration of going through your closet and trying to match the vibe of each company with your existing wardrobe can be a bit daunting. To avoid this added anxiety, head to H&M or Forever 21 and stock up on a few basics. Blazer, solid nude, brown or black dress shoes, slacks, a fun printed top, a nice solid top, and a few subtle pieces of jewelry to finish it off. You can mix and match the pieces as each interview opportunities.

9. USING THE SAME OLD JOB DATABASES.

Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and even Snapchat should be your best friends during the job hunt. Many companies are beginning to use social media platforms to publicize open positions. Follow the companies you want to work for on these platforms gives you a leg up on the competition.

10. '5-7 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE'

You've walked across the stage, received graduation gifts and well-wishes from friends and family, only to see that the positions you've worked so hard to get to require experience you've yet to receive. Nothing is more discouraging. Don't fret; if you strongly feel that you're qualified for a position, though you may only have 1-2 years of work or internship experience, GO FOR IT. If you've got the portfolio or experience to show off your skills, talk it up in your cover letter and interview. The worst answer you can get is no answer. In the meantime, don't oppose positions that require less experience. We've all got to start somewhere!

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