7 Common Misconceptions About Job Hunting

7 Common Misconceptions About Job Hunting There are quite a lot of common job hunting myths that are frequently repeated, from outdated advice, to the downright absurd. Unfortunately, some of them  could be holding you back in finding a job if you take them too seriously, so its good to know what is true and whats not. Here are 7 of the most widespread myths [courtesy of Wiley] about your job search, that are best to ignore. 1) Being unemployed is a disadvantage when looking for a new job. Its a common perception that its easier to get a job when youre already in a job, as you are then regarded as a sought after employee. This isnt necessarily the case, as employers understand that there any a number of reasons why an individual may be out of a job and it doesnt necessarily mean they are a bad worker. 2) You should put your full effort into every job lead. Its important to put the time in to personalise and tailor each job application for particular roles, but if you do this for every single job vacancy you come across you will soon lose motivation. Its good to place focus and effort on the roles you are genuinely interested in. Its important to prioritise the leads that are most likely to lead to an offer you would accept. 3) Job hunting is more difficult than a job itself. Your job search can be extremely stressful, however if you stay organised, focused and disciplined it doesnt have to be as difficult as you initially think. 4) When unemployed you should accept the first offer. If youve been out of work for a while, you could be feeling desperate to land a role, but this doesnt mean you should accept the first job that comes along if you dont feel its right for you. Keeping this in mind, there are times when you may have to take a job that you are not 100% thrilled about, but just consider it a stepping stone. Temporary work or freelancing could be the answer if you want to carry on your job hunt. 5) Its not what you know, its who you know. Industry contacts can be invaluable in your job hunt, but knowing the right people isnt the be all and end all. Networking should be part of your job search strategy, so if you begin without any connections this doesnt need to be a disadvantage, as you can make them as you go on. 6) Being good at interviews is the most important skill. First impressions can have a big influence on your job search and coming across as confident and self-assured in your interview will certainly help. However, to get to the interview stage you have to know how to  convert job leads to set the ball rolling. 7) The only person you can depend on is yourself. Dont ever hesitate to ask from help when you need it. Friends, family, industry contacts and even recruiters can often provide you with the support you require  to succeed in your job search. Think about how certain people could assist you and dont forget to show gratitude when they do. [Image Credit: Shutterstock]