In the competitive world of coaching, it’s crucial to recognize and overcome common pitfalls that can inadvertently hinder your progress in the job search process. Unintentional mistakes may sabotage your job search, making it essential to take proactive steps toward success. In this article, we will explore ten common ways individuals undermine their own efforts in the job search and provide insights on how to stop these self-sabotaging behaviors. By understanding and addressing these challenges, you can enhance your job search strategy, increase your chances of securing opportunities, and navigate the professional landscape with confidence.
1. Using references that don’t give you a positive recommendation.
Let your references know when you are applying for jobs. Confirm that it is ok to list them as a reference. Be sure that they are a reference who will talk about you in a positive manner.
2. Lack of a strong resume.
Too many coaches use a resume with a poor layout that may include the following: inconsistent tabs, indents, and line spaces; hard to read fonts; too much info crammed in a small space; typos, misspelled words, and poor grammar. Another key error is neglecting to tailor the resume and cover letter for each position.
3. Talking poorly about former employers.
Even if you were let go from a previous job, find ways to say positive things about your former employer. Hiring directors often identify with your former boss, not with you.
4. Saying negative things about your own track record.
Even if you are looking for a new job because you were let go from your previous job, find a way to put a positive spin on your experience.
5. Talking too much at the start of an interview.
It’s fine to give a 30-second summary of your accomplishments, but then you should go into questioning and listening mode, and respond to the interviewer’s cues.
6. Lamenting your difficult job search.
Even if you’ve been on a long, tedious job search, find a way to make it sound positive, as though you took a sabbatical by choice and you’ve enjoyed your time networking and furthering your knowledge in the profession.
7. Being honest about your weaknesses.
You can talk about a challenge you overcame, but emphasize your accomplishment rather than the problem that preceded it.
8. Focusing on salary.
Many people get anxious about money and bring it up in the first interview. Avoid being the first to bring up the topic. If you are asked about your salary requirement, you can say, “money is important to me but at this point in my career, finding a good fit is the primary objective.”
9. Getting impatient with the process.
Know that hiring decisions can drag on for weeks, even months. Repeatedly calling and emailing will not speed up the process.
10. Spending all your time applying to job postings and sending out blind resumes.
Applying for every single job that is posted is time-consuming and often counter-productive. Many people get jobs through networking and people they know. Focus on the jobs you are really interested in and those where a contact may be able to help promote you as a candidate.
If you need help with your coaching resume, your portfolio, or the interview process, be sure to sign up for one of our job prep packages at The Coaching Portfolio Guide! We provide services that assist with all aspects of the job search process for coaches. Click here to get started today!
Written By: Bill Vasko – CEO, XO Coach
