It’s been weeks since you applied for a job in Singapore but you haven’t heard back from the employer and you’re now wondering what went wrong? Hang in there! The truth is that the hiring process at most companies is painfully long.
Having said that, in our enthusiasm or desperation to find a meaningful job, we often make mistakes that could cost a job offer. In this article, you’ll find out what those mistakes are and how to rectify them. Hint: It’s a lot to do with your resume. But more on that later.
Three Common Mistakes Made by Candidates When Looking for a Job in Singapore
1. Not researching about the role and/or the company
Very often, candidates apply for a job based on the job title, and not the responsibilities the job entails. This is a rookie mistake because job titles don’t always reflect the actual work involved or the skills required. The reason job descriptions are lengthy and detailed is because recruiters want you to properly familiarise yourself with the role you’re applying for, ensuring no one’s time is wasted.
According to a headhunter with over 25 years under her belt, there is no excuse for a job applicant not taking the time out to know the company they’re applying to. She also advises against sending generic applications, calling it a recipe for rejection.
Knowing your industry well—not just the company you’re applying to—can also give you a strategic advantage, especially when negotiating compensation.
What should you do instead?
- Read the job description carefully and find out more about the company, the founders and even the hiring manager. Reflect on why you want this job, in this particular company. Is it because the job title sounds appealing or is it a job that aligns with your career goals?
- Try speaking with a current or a former employee to learn more about your potential future employer.
- If the job description mentions a skill or certification that is desirable in your industry in Singapore but you currently lack, take steps to acquire it. Short online or offline courses can help you bridge the gap.
2. Applying for multiple jobs with the same resume/cover letter
Be it a blue collar or white collar job, a resume is the most important aspect of any job application in Singapore. After all, it is the most efficient way for an employer to get to know the job applicant and assess their suitability for the role.
A resume is also your first point of contact with your employer and goes a long way in making a great first impression. Despite that, a lot of job applicants don’t bother tailoring their resume, based on the role they’re seeking, which significantly reduces their chance of being called for an interview. Similarly, cover letters that sound generic make the recruiter think you’re interested enough in the job.
So, what should you do instead?
- Start with a base resume and modify it for different jobs. A renowned career coach recommends spending 10-15 minutes populating your resume with the keywords mentioned in the job description. For instance sometimes, it’s as simple as replacing the word “supervisor” with “manager.”
- Tailor your cover letter in a way that shows you’re serious about the role you’re applying for. You must demonstrate a personal connection between yourself and the organisation.
- Ensure your resume is up to date and meets industry standards. If you’re unsure where to start, try a free online CV builder tool like AICV by Bossjob, that lets you create or update your resume using professional templates in minutes.
3. Failing to follow up after applying for a job
If you think you can sit back and relax after sending your resume and/or cover letter, you’re mistaken. In the fast-paced job market in Singapore, recruiters are constantly time crunched and often have multiple roles to fill. Following up ensures you stay on top of their minds.
So, what should you do instead?
- This recruiter recommends sending a thoughtful follow up email to emphasise your enthusiasm for the role and use it as a platform to address any concerns they may have.
- While following up, be patient and never pushy. Keep your tone strictly respectful and professional.
Get the job you desire in Singapore with the help of Bossjob
Whether you’re looking for your first job or thinking of switching jobs, avoiding these mistakes will increase your chances of standing out in Singapore’s competitive job market. If you need help finding a job in Singapore, check out Bossjob, an AI powered job search platform that lets you discover jobs matching your skills with ease. With instant access to your employer through a direct chat feature, following up on your job application becomes easy and stress-free.
