Top Mistakes Jobseekers Make and How to Avoid Them on Merojob

You might have applied to many jobs, but many of them may have rejected you. Why do you think those applications got rejected? What were the mistakes you made? 

Even though candidates use job portals, several slip-ups could prevent them from landing the position they're after.

Let’s look at some of the common mistakes and how you could avoid them.

1. Incomplete Profiles

Although completing your profile is the first step after signing up in a job portal, a lot of us just submit our profile without finishing it. This greatly reduces our chances of getting hired. The job portal's rejection rate for incomplete profiles has significantly increased because of the lack of relevant information. This statement is more true with such job portals that have integrated AI into their Application Tracking System.

In order to further improve your chances of getting shortlisted, make sure to complete all the fields on your profile. Remember to keep your information current and include any relevant information. Do check that nothing is omitted by using the profile completeness bar as a reference.  

2. Using a Generic Resume

Does sending the same resume to every job, work for a job seeker? Job seekers must understand that each organization has unique requirements, and they need to modify their resume to those requirements. Submitting a generic resume may save time, but writing a resume, especially for the job description makes a big difference.

3. Ignoring Keywords

The introduction of AI, in job portals worldwide, has significantly increased the importance of keywords in job applications. In Nepal, platforms like Merojob have integrated AI technology that utilizes keywords to filter candidates. This shift means that keywords are now crucial for AI systems to assess whether a job seeker meets the qualifications for a position.

To improve your chances of being shortlisted, it’s mandatory to carefully read job descriptions and integrate relevant keywords into your profile. AI algorithms rely on these keywords to identify the best candidates as a recommendation for any job, so aligning your application materials with the specific language used in job postings is imperative.

4. Applying to Every Job Without a Strategy

When candidates are in need, they apply their profiles everywhere. This usually leads to higher rejection and more uncertainty in the applicant’s mindset.

Indeed, it is tempting to apply for any job that you see, but it rarely pays off. Employers can tell from your resume that you are not a relevant candidate for the job. However, by only applying for jobs that match your skills, you can reduce the likelihood of encountering such issues.

5. Failing to understand the silence

After submitting an application, many job seekers make the mistake of assuming their job is done and that the employer will contact them within a day. However, after not being contacted for a week or more, the applicants apply for another job. What they don't realize is that it can take a month or more for an employer to contact them. 

However, a polite follow-up on your part can demonstrate to employers that you are genuinely interested in the position and keep you at the forefront of their minds. If you haven't heard back within a week or two, send a polite follow-up email asking about the status of your application.

6. Not Taking Advantage of Merojob’s ‘Actively Searching for Job’ Feature

Merojob provides an 'Actively Searching for Job' feature, which allows you to be identified as an Active Jobseeker for the next 7 days in any jobs you apply for. Activate this feature to show recruiters that you are ready and eager for new opportunities. This simple step can greatly improve your visibility on the platform.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can significantly increase your chances of finding your next job on Merojob. Take the time to improve your profile, personalize your applications, and use all of Merojob's tools. With a strategic approach, you'll be well on your way to landing your ideal job.