7 Common Job Search Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
“Being invisible hurts far more than being imperfect.” - Jacqueline Widdis
After nearly 20 years away from full-time work, I was desperate to get back into technology. So desperate, in fact, that I actually considered applying for a janitorial role just to slip my résumé onto a hiring manager’s desk.
Thankfully, I didn’t have to do that, but it still took me three years to restart my career in tech after a long employment gap. Looking back, I know exactly why: I made mistakes that slowed me down. These are the same mistakes I now see so many other job seekers making, too.
The good news? You don’t have to repeat them. Here are 7 common job search mistakes (and how to avoid them) if you’re returning to the workforce, pivoting after a layoff, or reentering tech after a career break.
So Let's Get Started on Those Mistakes..
1. Applying to everything
I applied for any job that seemed remotely possible: program manager, customer service, marketing, product roles. This left me scattered and unfocused. Recruiters could see my story didn’t line up.
Instead:
Declare your major. Pick a lane, get clear on your target role, and tailor your résumé and applications. Focus beats frenzy every time.
2. Letting self-doubt steer the process
I held myself back with constant “not good enough” scripts: I’m just a stay-at-home mom. Just a cake decorator. Just a personal trainer. That inner dialogue kept me in observation mode on LinkedIn instead of participating.
Instead:
Claim your value. Every experience has transferable skills. Even cake decorating taught me deadlines, stress management, and client delivery. Own your story.
3. Hiding my career gap
For years, I buried the gap, feeling ashamed instead of recognizing the strength it built in me. Society often undervalues caregiving, volunteering, or unconventional paths, but those experiences make you unique.
Instead:
Fall in love with your story. Frame your career gap as a time of growth, resilience, and skill-building. Employers value authenticity.
4. Waiting to feel “ready”
I thought I needed certifications, perfect résumés, or endless prep before reaching out. I kept learning but neglected networking.
Instead:
Take imperfect action. Progress comes from doing, not waiting. Post on LinkedIn. Send a connection request. Ask for help. Start now.
6. Ignoring LinkedIn's Potential
I lurked instead of engaging. I thought everyone else’s success stories meant I didn’t belong. Once I started showing up authentically, everything changed.
Instead:
Engage daily on LinkedIn. Comment on posts, share your perspective, and connect with peers. Being visible matters far more than being perfect.
7. Believing perfection > action
I thought every word, every step, every plan had to be flawless. But that mindset nearly kept me from ever posting, networking, or applying.
👉 Instead: Be perfectly imperfect. Clarity comes through action, not perfection. Employers hire people, not robots.
Quick Job Search Checklist:
Pick one target role (“declare your major”)
Rewrite your story to highlight transferable skills
Share your career gap proudly, not apologetically
Post something on LinkedIn this week (story, question, or insight)
Send 5 genuine connection requests
Join a supportive job search community
Take one bold, imperfect step today
