Did you know that a single VA job posting gets around 250 applications? But only a handful of 4 to 6 applicants are selected for the interview, and finally, only one is hired for the job.
Scary, right?
You can increase your chances of getting the job by avoiding these common mistakes and stand out among hundreds of applicants:
✘ Failing to read the job description thoroughly
✔ Carefully read the job description to understand the requirements and what is necessary for the position
It will help you decide if you’re a good fit for the job or if you have the necessary skills and experience. Clients often include specific details in their job postings to test if you’ve read the post before sending in your application.
✘ Applying for jobs you're not qualified for
✔ Assess your own qualifications for the job and highlight them effectively on your resume
When you’re in a desperate situation, you may be tempted to apply for as many roles as possible and exaggerate your skills in hopes of landing one. It’s better to be honest about your abilities and only apply for positions that you are confident you can handle. By doing so, you can save both your time and the client’s time.
✘ Submitting a generic application
✔ Customise your job application for each role
For instance, if you are applying for a graphic design position, your resume should include information relevant to that specific job.
Potential clients may be turned off if you send a generic application. Avoid applying to multiple job posts with the same generic proposal as clients can tell if your application is copied and pasted.
Personalise your application for each job and highlight your unique qualification and experience. Keep in mind that you’re competing with talented individuals worldwide, so make sure your application stands out.
✘ Failing to provide a portfolio or work samples
✔ Utilise resources like Behance or Canva to generate a portfolio and ensure that you have a link or file readily available for submission
Providing a portfolio or work samples that showcase your skills and experience can help you stand out from other applicants. Make sure your portfolio is up-to-date and relevant to the job you’re applying for.
✘ Not being responsive
✔ Stay attentive and regularly check your emails and phones for any updates or notifications
Make sure you respond promptly to any messages or emails from the client, and be available for interviews or calls. Doing so can help build trust and strengthen your working relationship with your potential client.
Ultimately, getting a job does not solely rely on avoiding these common mistakes; it also hinges on the amount of effort, hard work, and time you’re willing to put into the job search. Enhancing your portfolio, striving for exceptional skills, learning from your mistakes, embracing failures, and continuously improving yourself are all steps toward achieving success.
