You have applied for a number of jobs recently, but nothing has happened. It seems that your resume and cover letters have disappeared down a black hole. Could you be doing something wrong? Are you shooting yourself in the foot with mistakes in the application process? Here are a few things to keep in mind to make sure you are not sabotaging your own efforts.

1. Follow instructions

Some job advertisements have specific instructions that the company wants applicants to follow when applying for the job. There may be certain things the company wants to see, or a certain way applicants need to submit their materials. Be sure you read and follow the instructions when you make your applications. It’s an easy way for hiring managers or companies to eliminate job candidates.

2. Read and use the job description

Make note of the keywords that are used in the job description. Use the job description to determine what the employer is looking for – what is important to the employer, what problem does the employer need to have solved?

3. Customize your resume and cover letter

Do your research on the company. Then, tailor your resume and cover letter to fit the company and the job description. Use what you know about the company and the job description to guide you in what skills and experience to highlight. Make sure you proofread your cover letter and resume so that there are no grammar or spelling errors. (That’s another easy way for companies to eliminate job candidates.)

4. Follow up, but don’t be a pest

You should follow up submitting your application with a phone call. Notify the company in your cover letter when you will call. If they tell you it will be several weeks before a decision is made, wait until then to call back. You don’t want to be over eager and annoy a decision maker.

If you are looking for work in the Inland Empire, Arrow Staffing is the place to go. At Arrow, we thoroughly evaluate all of our job candidates to find the right jobs for them, and work closely with all our people with individual attention. Give Arrow a call today.