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There is a lot of advice out there for anyone undertaking a job search. And it stands to reason that at least some of it is pretty awful advice. Not everything can be a gem, so it is important that you know what not to do. If you’re hearing this statement over and over again, run. It isn’t helpful, won’t benefit you, or won’t allow you to reach your maximum potential. This one seemingly innocuous bit of advice seems to be reinforced to job seekers by very well-intentioned people around them. We’re here to tell you not to take that job search advice, and what you can do instead.

Don’t “Be Open” and Say You’ll Take Anything

Your friends and family are only trying to help. They want to see you employed rather than struggling. They believe you should put yourself out there and consider any and all opportunities. But the truth is, companies don’t want people who have no focus for their career. They want people who want to work for them and know what skills they bring to the table. So here is what you can do about it.

Get Focused

The single thing you should be an expert on when you’re on a job search is yourself. You know what you want to do and where you want to do it, so don’t give into the idea that you should be so flexible as to accept any offer. Stay focused and don’t get distracted by well-intentioned people. Employers want to see this kind of dedication and self awareness. They want to hire someone who is confident and excited about what they do.

Know Your Skills

Take an inventory of your skills. What do you know how to do? What things are you best at? What do you want to do? Create a list of all of these items and then look for similarities between them. This is your sweet spot. Jobs that combine what you know how to do, what you can do well, and what you like to do are more important than simply working to earn a paycheck.

Do Your Homework

Another list to make is one of the companies you want to work with. Look at the organizations within your town that do what it is you want to do. Review your list of talents and interests and cross references the companies that do this work and hold similar values. Once you create this list, you will have a target for networking and applying during your job search.

Are you looking for your next opportunity? Contact the recruiters at Harvard Resource Solutions, now hiring for jobs in Detroit MI.