Common Job-Hunting Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Frustration builds quickly when you're in search of a new job. You've been looking for what seems like forever, and you haven't gotten a single break. Maybe you even had a few interviews - but no call backs. You're up to your eyes in beautifully printed resumes and cover letters, and you're convinced that there's no way you'll strike out after all this tedious effort but what if you do? Then maybe you're just a victim of the overlooked, common mistakes we make as prospective employees.

1. Negativity will be the number one cause of your downfall if you can't overcome it. You have to maintain a positive attitude despite the length of time you've spent looking, and despite the luck you've had. And don't underestimate the skills you possess even if you don't have exactly what they're looking for, your attitude can make all the difference in the world. I'm not saying you should be arrogant and display so much confidence that you're making your potential employer doubt his self-worth, but you should feel good about yourself and what you can contribute to this company even if it is a fast food restaurant.

2. Punctuality is probably the only thing as important as your attitude. If you can't show up to your interview on time, how do you expect your boss to trust you to be on time for that big meeting with the new client?

3. Be prepared. You have to have your ducks in a row before you can go into the interview. Research the company, find out the salary range for the position and investigate the competitiveness of the field it will give you the edge you need and give you a better understanding of what you're walking into. "Job-seekers who research as much as possible on potential companies and job offers will feel more in control of the process and likely find positions that they will be happier with than people who do not prepare and research," says Maurene Hinds, author of author of The Ferguson Guide To Resumes And Job-hunting Skills: A Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing for Your Job Search. Even if you're not sure entirely sure what the job entails, or what will be expected of you, you can still have an organized list of questions to find out.