Looking for a job can feel like a full-time job in itself.
Source: Unsplash It’s exciting, stressful, and exhausting all at once, and it’s easy to get caught up in the process without realising what might be holding you back. Whether you’re applying for your first role or making a mid-career switch, some common habits can quietly sabotage your chances of success.
Luckily, most of these pitfalls are avoidable once you know what to watch out for. It’s more than just perfecting your CV or crafting the right cover letter—it’s also about mindset, timing, and how you present yourself along the way. Here are a few things to steer clear of when you’re in the thick of the job hunt.
1. Applying to everything without a strategy
It can be tempting to fire off applications to every listing that sounds vaguely acceptable, especially when you’re feeling the pressure. But quantity doesn’t always equal quality. Sending the same generic application to 50 jobs rarely gets the results you’re hoping for.
Instead, take the time to target roles that truly align with your skills, interests, and goals. A thoughtful, tailored application to a handful of positions can be far more effective than mass applying without much thought behind it.
2. Using the same CV for every job
Source: Unsplash Your CV isn’t a one-size-fits-all document. If you’re not adjusting it to match each specific role, you’re missing an opportunity to show how your experience fits exactly what they’re looking for.
Recruiters spot generic CVs a mile off. By tweaking your phrasing or highlighting different achievements based on the job description, you’re showing that you’ve put effort into understanding the role, and that can set you apart right away.
3. Ignoring the importance of a cover letter
Even if it’s optional, skipping the cover letter can come across as careless—or worse, disinterested. It’s your chance to show your personality and explain why you’re genuinely interested in that job at that company.
A good cover letter can be the thing that nudges your application into the ‘yes’ pile. It doesn’t need to be long or overly formal—just honest, relevant, and specific. Think of it as your introduction before your CV does the talking.
4. Not doing any research before interviews
Showing up to an interview without a basic understanding of the company can be a deal-breaker. If you don’t know what they do or what they value, it’s going to be hard to convince them you want to be part of their team.
A bit of research goes a long way. Familiarising yourself with their website, recent projects, or company culture can help you connect more naturally, and it shows that you’re genuinely invested in the opportunity.
5. Undervaluing yourself
Source: Unsplash It’s easy to doubt your worth during a job search, especially after a few rejections. However, underselling yourself—whether it’s by asking for less money, accepting a role beneath your skills, or being too apologetic in interviews—won’t help you in the long run.
Confidence (not arrogance) is key. Know your strengths, speak to your experience clearly, and remember that job searching is as much about finding the right fit for you as it is about proving yourself to someone else.
6. Putting off follow-ups or thank-yous
Source: Unsplash After an interview, it might feel awkward to send a follow-up message, but skipping this step can make you seem passive or disengaged. A simple thank-you email can go a long way in showing professionalism and continued interest.
It doesn’t have to be formal or over-the-top, just genuine. It’s also a good opportunity to briefly reinforce why you’re excited about the role, and thank them for their time. That small gesture can stick with an employer more than you realise.
7. Being too vague about your goals
Employers want to know what you’re looking for, not just in terms of a role, but in the bigger picture. If your answers are too vague or open-ended, it can make it hard for them to see where you’d fit. Be clear about what you’re after, even if you’re still figuring it out. Saying something like “I’m open to anything” can come off as directionless, whereas “I’m looking for opportunities where I can grow in X area” feels more grounded.
8. Overexplaining gaps or past decisions
If you’ve had a break from work, changed industries, or had a job that didn’t work out, it’s okay to acknowledge it, but don’t get stuck overexplaining or apologising for it. Frame it honestly and confidently, and then shift the focus to what you’ve learned or what you’re ready for now. Employers are more understanding than you think; it’s how you talk about it that matters more than the gap itself.
9. Ignoring your online presence
Whether it’s LinkedIn or other platforms, most employers will take a quick peek online before or after the interview. If your profiles are outdated—or worse, full of content that clashes with your professional image—it can leave the wrong impression.
You don’t need a perfect personal brand, but having a clean, up-to-date profile that aligns with your job goals can add credibility. It’s also a great way to show your interests, share your experience, and expand your network.
10. Letting rejections knock your confidence
Hearing “no” over and over is tough, and it’s easy to start questioning your value. Of course, rejection is a natural part of the process—it’s not always a reflection of your ability or potential. Instead of taking it personally, try to see it as redirection. Every rejection gets you one step closer to the right opportunity. Keep going, take breaks when you need to, and try not to let one company’s decision define your self-worth.
11. Waiting too long to start networking
Many jobseekers focus solely on applying to online listings, but networking can often be the key that opens doors. Waiting until you’re desperate to reach out can make those connections feel forced.
Instead, start conversations early. Let people in your industry know you’re looking, ask questions, or simply reconnect with old contacts. It doesn’t have to be pushy; sometimes the best leads come from casual conversations and genuine relationships.
12. Settling for something that doesn’t feel right
When the search drags on, it’s tempting to take the first thing that comes your way, even if it’s not what you really want. But settling can leave you frustrated, unfulfilled, and back on the job hunt sooner than you’d like.
If something feels off—whether it’s the role, the company culture, or the way they treat candidates—trust your gut. Holding out for something that aligns better might take longer, but in the end, it’s usually worth it.
