What NOT to do While Applying for a Role in Tech

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Job-hunting is not easy; that’s true. Whether you’ve been in tech for a while, just transitioned, have been employed before or are just looking for your first role, there’s so much intentionality that goes into job-hunting, especially in the tech industry.

Previous articles outlined necessary things to consider as a starter pack for your next application for a role in tech and how to stand out while job-hunting. While there are many things you can do to increase your chances of landing your dream tech job, there are also many things you should steer clear of during this phase.

This article discusses certain actions to avoid while searching for a job, with a focus on the tech industry.

Don’t Do Generic Applications

Applying for every and any job you see may seem like an excellent way to increase your chances; however, it sometimes does more harm than good, especially when you do not tailor your applications.

Here’s what generic applications look like: you search for jobs with the title you want and apply with the same cover letter and resume. Hiring managers can spot generic applications from afar. Not taking the time to customize your application to suit the role you’re applying for can discourage the recruiter from even going further.

Here’s what you can do instead:

• Take time to read the job description of each role. Note the keywords that describe their ideal candidate.
• Use those keywords in your cover letter. Ensure that your cover letter demonstrates strength in the areas specified by the hiring manager.
• Rework your CV to suit the role using those keywords. Highlight achievements and experiences that put you on the list of top candidates for that role. Quantify your achievements using statistics too.

Don’t Apply Blindly

A common mistake is applying for a role when the only knowledge you have about it is the job title, nothing about what the role entails or the company. Hiring managers are sparked when they see that you intentionally prepared for the application or interview.

It’s evidence of your genuine interest and willingness to be a part of them. Ensure that you have done comprehensive research about the company’s mission, values, and culture, and tailor your application to show how you can contribute to their goals.

Let this shine through in your applications and interviews.

Don’t Lie

Would you hire someone to join your team if you found out that most of what they told you they knew or did were untrue? The answer is most definitely no! When then would you lie on your resume or cover letter?

Yes, it could be very tempting to want to exaggerate your achievements or experience just to increase your chances, but it’s never the right thing to do. Many recruiters would want to vet what you have said about your work history or qualifications. They could reach out to previous employees or test you on your acclaimed knowledge. If you already lied, you’d have ruined your chances.

Instead of lying, be truthful about your qualifications and experience. However, highlight your strengths, proficiency, and experience truthfully and accurately.

Don’t Just Continue Applying

One of the most important things I learned to do in the past year is to keep a tracker for applications. This tracker should include your date of application, the role you applied for and its description, the stage you got to, the interview questions, and the feedback you received.

It helps to measure growth and also assess repeated mistakes or notice trends. Keeping track of interview questions from previous applications could help you prepare for future ones. Also, comparing different job descriptions could help you put into perspective what recruiters hiring for that kind of role are looking out for and work towards it.

When you get feedback and collate them, it helps you understand where you currently are, how much you’ve grown, and what to improve on.

Conclusion

Applying for a tech job requires careful consideration and preparation. Avoiding these common mistakes can increase your chances of getting hired and make your application stand out from the competition.

Remember to focus on quality over quantity, be honest and accurate in your application, and take the time to research the company and the job. By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to landing your dream tech job in no time.