SEVEN WAYS NOT TO GET HIRED: Career Expert Highlights Job Search Pitfalls New Graduates Should Avoid

MENLO PARK, Calif., May 8 /PRNewswire/ -- Those looking for their first jobs out of college also must look out for potential career pitfalls. According to Max Messmer, chairman of Accountemps and author of Job Hunting For Dummies(R), 2nd Edition (John Wiley & Sons, Inc.), competition for jobs has intensified, making it even more important for entry-level professionals to put their best foot forward.

"In today's employment environment, there is less room for error when looking for your first career opportunity," said Messmer. "Employers want assurances that new hires will be able to contribute immediately. They seek applicants who are polished and pay attention to detail -- traits that must be evident in one's job search materials and interactions with hiring managers."

Messmer noted that the job hunt has grown in complexity in recent years as new online tools, such as professional networking sites, have become increasingly prominent. "Online exposure makes candidates more visible and also more vulnerable," Messmer said. "Because so much information is now public, those with career aspirations need to be especially thoughtful about what they post for everyone to see."

    Accountemps cites seven common job search mistakes and how to avoid them:

    1.  Thinking small: Spread the word about your job hunt to everyone you
        know, including family members, friends, professors and former
        coworkers. Also take advantage of professional networking websites
        such as LinkedIn and work with staffing firms that specialize in your
        field and maintain a broad base of contacts in the local business
        community.
    2.  Adopting a one-size-fits-all approach: Tailor each resume and cover
        letter to the particular opportunity, and try to obtain the name of
        the hiring manager so you can personalize your cover letter. A little
        detective work can go a long way in helping you stand out.
    3.  Failing to proofread: Make sure your resume and cover letter are error

        free. Be vigilant about spelling, grammar and punctuation in all of
        your written communication, including e-mails, web pages and thank-you

        notes. Ask a detail-oriented friend to review all of your job search
        materials.
    4.  Remaining in the dark: Applicants who uncover beyond-the-basics
        knowledge of the job and the company by using the Internet and
        corporate websites are better able to communicate specific ways they
        can contribute to the organization's success.
    5.  Posting indiscriminately: Consider your online image, and don't post
        anything that would appear unprofessional (think spring break photos,
        rants about a former employer, etc.) for a hiring manager or
        recruiter.
    6.  Leaving a bad first impression: Make sure that both your land line and

        cell phone voice-mail greetings are clear, professional and succinct.
        Likewise, avoid using off-color or overly cute e-mail addresses.
    7.  Failing to thank others: Express appreciation to everyone who helps
        you in your job search, whether or not their efforts on your behalf
        are successful. Also be sure to send thank-you notes to every hiring
        manager you meet.

Accountemps has more than 360 offices worldwide and offers online job search services at http://www.accountemps.com.