Starting Work? Avoid These Mistakes

Mistakes job candidates make

I constantly search online for the latest news that might be of interest to interns, summer associates and new hires, in fact, anyone who is about to enter the workforce. Over the weekend, I found two references to a recent survey of hiring managers conducted by Adecco, a human resources consulting company. That survey allegedly highlights some of the mistakes most commonly made by those starting work.

I write “allegedly” because I can’t find the actual survey online.

Now, it’s more than possible that the survey has been pre-released to the media. So, instead of quoting the survey, according to NBC News, following are its major conclusions:

Spelling errors constitute the most common resumé mistake that disqualifies 18- to 24-year-olds from consideration. About 43% of hiring managers said spelling errors were the primary disqualifier, while 28% listed not being truthful.

When asked to name the biggest mistake youthful job candidates make, half cited “inappropriate wardrobe or attire.”

44% of hiring managers faulted young jobseekers for showing up late or on the wrong date.

Believe it or not, 30% of managers complained that young job seekers had checked their phone or texted while interviewing.

And more than 35% of managers said that young jobseekers were too aggressive regarding pay expectations and other benefits like vacation.

What Do You Need to Know?

You have a better chance of landing the job of your dreams when you show up for an interview on the right day and time, appropriately dressed, and with your smart phone turned off.

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