jobs

If your job search is dragging on and on, you might want to look in the mirror. Because the person looking back may be sabotaging your efforts.

Do you make the following mistakes in your job search? If so, stop now. And start getting more calls for job interviews.

Mistake #1: Not Following Up

If you fire off résumés without checking to see if employers get them, and fail to keep in touch until a hiring decision is made, your dream job might go to someone less qualified, but more persistent than you.

Here's how one of my clients, Mike M. from Boston, followed up right. And got a great new job.

"After going to about 20 interviews, I found that following up on résumés submitted via e-mail is very important. Probably a third of my interviews were obtained within a day or two after a follow-up," says Mike.

How did he do it?

"I sent my résumé and cover letter again via e-mail, and included one or two 'wow' points about myself in the e-mail message."

Here's an example of a follow-up e-mail Mike sent:

Hello,

I would like to follow up on the status of my résumé submission for the Forecast Analyst position, as there is a very strong match between the position requirements and my skills and experience. [I've attached my cover letter and résumé again for your convenience.]

As I have a strong desire to re-enter the consumer products industry, I would again welcome the opportunity for an interview. With a track record of delivering up to $1 million in annual cost savings through accurate demand forecasts and supply-chain planning, I'm confident I could bring the same performance to ABC Co.

Sincerely,

Mike M.

Nothing earth-shattering there. Just plain, smart persistence that set Mike apart from other candidates. And it worked -- he got hired.

You can do this, too.

Mistake #2: Not Thinking Things Through

Last week, I tried calling "Jill" (not her real name) in reply to a job search question she had e-mailed me. After 5 rings, Jill didn't pick up the phone ... and neither did an answering machine. So there was no way to leave a message.