I’ve been through the job search process twice in the last year, and I can tell you that knowing the do’s and don’ts makes all the difference. The single most important thing to get right is tailoring your application to each company and role. Don’t send the same generic resume and cover letter to every job posting. Instead, research the company’s culture, recent projects, and the specific responsibilities of the role. Then, adjust your resume to highlight the skills and experiences that directly match what they’re looking for. For example, if the job requires project management, list your most relevant project outcomes with metrics. This shows you’ve put in the effort and understand their needs.
Another big do is preparing for structured interviews. Many companies now use behavioral questions based on the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Practice your answers out loud, and have at least three solid stories ready that demonstrate your problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership. On the don’t side, avoid ghosting after an interview. Even if you decide the role isn’t for you, send a polite thank-you email and follow up if you haven’t heard back within a week. Recruitment teams appreciate candidates who communicate professionally.
I’ve seen a lot of people skip the salary research step. Don’t do that. Use sites like Glassdoor or industry surveys to know the typical salary range for similar roles in your city. When you’re asked about salary expectations, give a range based on market data, not a fixed number. This shows you’re informed and flexible. Below is a breakdown of common mistakes and their impact based on a survey I looked at:
| Common Mistake | Percentage of Candidates Affected | Typical Outcome |
|---|
| Generic resume | 72% | Rejected before interview |
| No follow-up after interview | 45% | Missed second-round offer |
| Unprepared for salary talk | 61% | Under-offer by 10–15% |
| Poor LinkedIn profile | 38% | Less recruiter outreach |
Following these do’s and don’ts has helped me land interviews at three companies I actually wanted. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being strategic.
