Applying for a job? Avoid these common mistakes.

There are a few basic factors you need to observe in order to increase your chances of snagging that job. You may have all the right credentials, graduated from some ivy league school hoarding all the top honors. However, it may be the seemingly minor details that can speel the difference between failure and success in your job application:

1. Submitting a resume that is not updated.
Always make sure that your CV is up-to-date. Employers are interested in your most recent work experiences. Do not make the mistake of submitting an old resume that doesn't even reflect your latest contact information and even address. If you need to attach a photo, take the extra effort in pasting a recent photo of yourself, preferably in formal attire.

2. Tardiness is a big turn-off.
Being late for an interview is a sign of disrespect to the interviewer. Remember, recruiters are very busy people and their time is valuable. Besides, if you are indeed very serious in your job search, prove it by coming to the interview on time.

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3. Look professional - avoid casual attire.
Many companies have no restrictions in dress code, but as an interviewee, it is best for you to dress up for the appointment. More often than not, first impressions have a lot of impact in a job interview. The moment you step foot inside a potential employer's office, you may already be under great scrutiny. Straighten your tie, tidy up your hair and look professional.

4. Don't be a blabber mouth - but don't be catatonic either.
Either of these two no-no's does not impress the interviewer. Sometimes, interviewees end up being over-eager in expressing their qualifications that the interviewer ends up being overwhelmed with information overload and cannot process the incoming barrage effectively. On the other hand, responding with one-worded answers is just as bad. A professional interviewer asks questions that allow the interviewee to expound on his/her answers. You must learn to strike a balance. Focus on the essential details of your expertise. It is best for you to rehearse beforehand on how you can explain your strong points completely but concisely.