10 Common Pieces of Job Advice Too Many People Ignore

Finding the right job can feel daunting, but following a few key tips can improve your chances of landing a job that helps you to stop living paycheck to paycheck.

So, take a look at the following advice that too many people ignore. Acting on these tips might improve the odds of getting the job you want instead of being passed over for another candidate.

If you apply to several jobs, customizing your resume for each might seem time-consuming. But you will likely only need to make small changes rather than rewriting the entire thing.

Desired skills probably differ for each position, and including irrelevant skills on your resume could cause the reviewer to miss the important ones. Take a few extra minutes for each application. It’s worth it if you want the job.

Networking and building relationships with other professionals in your industry can lead to referrals and job leads. These colleagues may refer you when a position opens up with their company, for example.

Don’t forget to do the same for them. This will keep relationships strong and increase the willingness of others to help you.

Tell your references you are looking for a job and that they should expect to be contacted. This can help them better prepare for the call.

Too many people fail to do this, and that can backfire. You don’t want the reference to be caught by surprise and to have little to say when the call arrives.

By giving your references information about the company and role, they can speak to the strengths and qualifications that apply to the job.

You want to know as much as possible about the company before your interview. Becoming familiar with the company’s products or services will give you an advantage.

It’s simple to explore the company’s website to gain a better understanding of what it does. You may even have the opportunity to read about the managers you’ll speak with.

Use this knowledge in the interview. Talk about the company and express your understanding of the role.

Consider the role before choosing an outfit for your job interview. Too many people do not dress appropriately for their interview.

You want to look professional, but wearing a full suit for a casual interview is a bit much. Perfume or cologne choices can prove just as important as your attire. You never know when a manager is sensitive to strong scents.

This seems like a given, but it is a rule that isn't always followed. Allow enough time to get settled when you arrive so you can begin the interview at the scheduled time.

In fact, give yourself a little extra time in case you run into issues. This is true for virtual interviews too. Technical difficulties can cause tardiness, so start the process early and test your device beforehand.

Making eye contact with your interviewer shows them you are listening and engaging in the conversation.

This doesn’t mean staring them in the eyes the entire time. But maintaining eye contact can give your potential employer insight into your demeanor and your level of interest in the job.

In many cases, the hiring manager will offer you the opportunity to ask questions. Not asking any questions can hurt your chances of landing the job. On the other hand, asking insightful ones might impress your interviewer.

That is because by asking these types of questions, you show that you’re genuinely interested in the role and want to perform well. It’s a good idea to make a list of questions before attending the interview.

Talking to current employees can give you a better idea about the company and if it is a good fit for you. You don’t want to waste your time going through several interviews if it’s not a place you really want to work.

Employees might also have tips and insight that will help you land the job. They know the ins and outs of the role and the company culture, and they understand their superiors' likes and dislikes.

Pro tip: If a job doesn’t feel right, you don’t have to say yes to the offer. That can be true even if you need the money. Instead, consider taking on a part-time job, starting a side hustle or looking for other ways to generate extra cash.

Sending a “thank you” note to everyone you spoke with lets them know you appreciate their time and keeps your name fresh in their minds.

Many people seeking jobs only send thank you notes to their main point of contact or hiring manager. But you may speak with several people in the company who have input on hiring decisions.

Following this advice might help you land a better job. Some of these steps take extra time and effort, but many people searching for a new job are likely to find them worthwhile.

The investment you make in these behaviors might put you on a path to boosting your bank account in a career you love.