It's a question that is asked time and time again. Most of the time however, it's not the hiring employer but you. It's a hard concept that most job seekers have trouble wrapping their heads around, but applicants frequently display signs that tell an employer that they're not the best fit for the job.
Finding qualified applicants is an employer's biggest hiring challenge. When asked to identify the most valuable characteristics in new hires, employers mentioned using initiative, multitasking, being proactive and creative problem-solving.
Here are 10 reasons why you may not be getting the job
1. You are dishonest
Any lies you tell in your job application, whether on your CV or in an interview, will come back to haunt you. Everything you tell an employer can be uncovered, if you're concerned about something in your past, be honest. Use your cover letter to tell your story, focusing on your strengths and accomplishments and explaining any areas of concern if needed.
2. You acted bored, disinterested or arrogant
Be enthusiastic, especially when it comes to a potential new job. Every business wants to put their most enthusiastic people forward with important clients and customers, so acting the opposite will get you nowhere.
3. You used bad language
It's certainly tempting to tell anyone who will listen how big of a (insert expletive here) your current boss is, but a hiring manager for a new job is not that person. Find a way to turn those negative things into positives. If you can't get along with your co-workers, for example, tell the prospective employer that you're looking for a work environment where you feel like you're part of a team and your current position doesn't allow for that kind of atmosphere.
4. You have a terrible reputation - online
Social networking sites and online searches are the newest way that many employers are checking up on prospective hires. Employers will often use social networking sites to research candidates. E.g. Facebook, Youtube, Linked IN and Twitter. 35% of those employers found content that caused them to reject the candidate.
Make sure to remove any photos, content or links that can work against you in an employer's eyes.
5. You were too personal
Most employers say that candidates who provided too much personal information in the interview destroy their chances at the job. In a professional environment no one wants to hear about your personal issues.
6. You don't show long-term potential
Employers want people in their organization to work their way up, so it's best to show that you want to and can grow with the company. If you were asked where you see yourself in five years and you gave an answer that wasn't related to the position or company you're interviewing with, then there's is an incredibly small chance that you'll get the job.
Ask questions like, "What type of career movement do you envision for the most successful candidate in this role?"
7. You discussed salary at the wrong time
As a general rule of thumb, you should never bring up salary before the employer does. Doing so is tactless and makes the employer think that you only care about the money involved, not about helping the employer succeed.
If the topic does arise, however, be honest about your salary history. Employers can verify your salary in a matter of minutes these days, so don't take chances.
8. You didn't/can't give examples
Managers want people who can prove that they will increase the organization's revenues, decrease its costs or help it succeed in some way. If all you give to an employer is a bunch of empty words about your accomplishments, you don't demonstrate how you can help the company.
In fact, 35% of employers said that the most detrimental mistake candidates make is not providing specific examples in the interview. The more you can measure your work, the better.
9. You don't know anything
Coming to the interview with no knowledge of the company will be detrimental to your chances. Do your homework before an interview. Research the company online, prepare answers to questions and have someone give you a mock interview. The more prepared you are, the more employers will take you seriously.
10. You don't have enough experience
Managers don't have as much time as they used to, to train and mentor new employees. The more experience you have, the more likely you are to hit the ground running without a lot of hand-holding.
The best way to show that you know what you're doing is to give the employer concrete examples of your experience in a given position.
A well-prepared, enthusiastic, passionate, professional and honest candidate will more than likely get the job above anyone else. Do all you can to be your best in the interview. Research, prepare and don't take any chances and the job will be yours.
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