What NOT to do when job hunting

Job hunting can be stressful. You feel pressure to present the best version of yourself, especially when you find that dream role. It can be easy to forget simple job hunting etiquette when you are swept up in the excitement.

Here’s some of the things you should definitely not do when looking for new opportunities and our tips on how to perfect your job hunting etiquette.

Don’t allow your social media to let you down

Whatever social media platforms you use make sure you audit them. Ensure your profile image is inoffensive and, particularly on LinkedIn, professional. Check what parts of your profiles are publicly viewable and make sure they are up-to-date, informative and don’t let down your personal brand.

Read more of our tips on perfecting your personal brand when searching for a new job.

Don’t use an unprofessional email address

When you are responding to job adverts or enquiring about opportunities it is essential that you use a professional looking email address. Gmail and other email service providers are fine. Just make sure the address looks authentic and cannot be mistaken for a spam account. 

It’s also best not to use your current work email address unless you are applying for an internal position.

Don’t forget to speak to your referees

You will need to provide one or more reference from someone who will be contacted during the recruitment process. It’s common courtesy to let them know you are seeking new opportunities. This will give them the chance to prepare some thoughts about you and will put them in a better position to aid your application.

The only time this isn’t the case is when the referee is your current employer. Make sure this is clear when you provide the reference so they can be contacted only after you have been offered a position.

Don’t forget to do your research

Whether you are writing a speculative enquiry or in response to an advertised vacancy, address your letter or email to a person, not a position.

Find out the name of the head of HR or the department that you are interested in joining. An email headed ‘Dear Mrs Hunter’ will be better received than one starting ‘Dear HR Manager’.

Researching an organisation you’d like to work for will also give you a head start in the application process and when you land an interview.

If you are looking for more tips on how to ace an interview take a look at our job interview technique tips.

Don’t arrive late

Punctuality is crucial when you are attending a job interview. Don’t waste a recruiter’s time – it does not make a good impression in what might be your first face-to-face meeting.

Don’t dress inappropriately

Workwear varies dramatically these days, but it’s always best to err on the side of caution in an interview situation. Dress smartly but don’t be afraid to show some personal character. A bright scarf or tie could help to make you more memorable in a field of several candidates.

Don’t swear

Interviews are a time to be polite. Don’t make a bad impression by allowing your choice of words to show you up.

Don’t be critical of previous employers

Even if you have come to the end of your tether with your current employer, an interview is not the time to be critical of another organisation or individual. It doesn’t set a good tone and may raise questions about your motivation for applying for this job.

You will come across as less committed to progressing your career if it sounds like you want to escape your current situation.

Help finding a new job

If you are looking for new opportunities then take a look at our services for candidates. Ocean Edge has nearly 20 years experience helping candidates find the perfect job in the affordable housing sector.

You might also find our blog posts on CV writing and finding the perfect job helpful.

To find out more about our recruitment consultancy services in London and Southampton get in contact: call 023 8000 1153 or email info@oceanedge.biz.