Key Points:
- Bad habits can be holding you back from your dream job.
- Being qualified for a job is a must, but so is showing your interpersonal skills.
- If you have one of the key bad habits that could be holding you back, we have action items to help you overcome them during your job search.
Sometimes it’s not your qualifications that prevent you from getting a job. Instead, it can be bad habits. Having bad habits during the interview process can be the determining factor as to whether you get the job or not. Thinking you have the job based on qualifications isn’t enough as you must connect with the team. During the job interview process, your interpersonal skills need to shine.
Below, we are breaking down some of the bad habits that may be inhibiting you from getting a job offer. Don’t fret if you have some of these habits because we will explain the best way to handle them.
Bad-mouthing a boss or a former employer is a no-no. Not having a good fit for a boss does not mean you should talk poorly of them to your potential employer. By bad-mouthing a previous boss, you may be perceived as someone who blames others or someone that likes to gossip. It’s recommended not to talk poorly of anyone in your industry as everyone talks and networks. Instead, journal your experiences or talk to a close friend that you can trust that’s not in the industry.
Laziness is not a coveted trait for potential candidates. If an employer spots spelling or grammar errors in your resume or cover letter, they will not take your application seriously. Spelling or grammar errors in a job application portray that the candidate isn’t serious about the position. Laziness can not only be shown in the application but also during the interview itself. The best way to work around this is to use tools such as Grammarly or have a friend review your paperwork. Showing up with an error-free application and a polished professional outfit will show you’re serious about the position.
Being unprepared will make you stand out, but not in a good way. If you’re too cool for research, the employer will think you aren’t interested in the position. The company carefully selected you to be a part of the interview process, and now it’s time for you to share that. The best way is to prepare for the interview by reviewing common interview questions, researching the company, and writing down questions for the interviewer.
Poor time management will only slow you down. An example of poor time management skills is arriving late to an interview. If you’re late to an interview, you’re illustrating you do not respect the interviewer’s time. The good news is that a routine can help you get out of poor time management habits. Having a routine will allow you to focus and not be deterred from minor distractions.
The above four examples of bad habits to illustrate in a job search can be difficult to overcome. Still, with the recommendations given above, you’ll be well on your way to becoming the best candidate for your dream job. For more advice on your job search, check out our article 10 Effective Ways To Use Social Media To Find A Job.
