Are you disqualifying yourself from your next job interview? In the 90's and earlier, job hunting primarily involved printed resumes and cover letters, and the interview was the first opportunity to make an impression. Today, it's easier to make a bad first impression without even realizing it.  What we take for granted as popular culture, does not always translate into the right habits and attributes for getting hired, or even getting a first interview. Very often, a potentially good candidate may disqualify themselves without ever realizing it. We hear it all the time; "I applied for a job and never heard back from the employer". To avoid unintentionally disqualifying yourself from the list of potential candidates, consider these common mistakes that HR professionals frown upon:

• Poor Grammar: Regardless of the job you're applying for, there's no excuse for typos, poor punctuation, or bad grammar. Pay attention to those red and blue squiggly lines while drafting your application, and have someone review your letter and resume.
• Text-speak: Using text-speak in cover letters and resumes is inexcusable and reflects how seriously you're taking your job application. Stick to professional language in all your job-related correspondence.
• Email addresses: Your email address is an important point of contact between you and a potential employer. Avoid using inappropriate or silly email addresses, and create a simple, professional-sounding one such as your name for job applications.
• Social Media: Companies often conduct Google or social media searches on applicants. Ensure your social media profiles project a positive image of yourself. Be mindful of the content you post and share, and consider the impression it gives to potential employers.
• Linkedin: Use LinkedIn to showcase your job history and accomplishments. Keep your LinkedIn profile professional and separate from your other social media accounts. Ensure your profile photo is appropriate and professional.

These points may seem trivial but the reality is that it is very easy for employers to pre-screen you for a job without you even realizing it. As long as you post information to the internet, you are giving up any privacy you may think you have. Think twice before posting other people’s views and opinions, photos and videos. Take a little extra care in crafting your job application, and be mindful of everything from your email address to what you choose to wear when you do get that call for a first interview.

Good luck, and take your next step towards your dream job!