If you’re a recent college graduate, you’ve probably breathed a big sigh of relief and are on to your next challenge: finding a place to work. Sure, the hiring outlook for new grads is encouraging, but that doesn’t mean your first job is going to fall right into your lap. You’re going to have to work diligently and search intelligently to find it.

So, if you’ve been looking for your dream job since last June, and it has been eluding you, it’s possible you just haven’t found the right opportunity, or it could be you’re going about it wrong.

Here are five mistakes many first-time job seekers make. Avoid them and give yourself the best chance at getting hired.

1. Not customizing your resume

Many applicants send out the same resume no matter where they are applying. Yes, it takes extra time to modify your resume for each potential employer, but it’s so effective it’s worth the effort. By customizing your resume, you can show the hiring manager how your skills and experiences match the requirements of their job opening. And it will help you stand apart from all those candidates who didn’t take the time to do it.

2. Doing all your searches online

While it’s a good idea to look on LinkedIn and all those job sites like CareerBuilder and Monster, you shouldn’t restrict your search to only these sites. It’s a fact that around eight out of every ten open jobs are never listed. That being the case, you need to expand your search parameters by networking at professional mixers and alumni get-togethers. You should also contact your college’s career center to find out how they can help you in your search.

3. Not keeping your options open

If you only look at jobs that are directly linked to your major, you’ll shut yourself off from a number of opportunities. Create a list of jobs that interest you, and find out what qualifications are required. You might already have many of them. You’ll likely be surprised at the number of apparently disparate jobs that are connected to your major.

4. Showing your bad side online

Employers look at candidates’ social media pages when they are considering them for an open position. What will they see when they visit yours? A wasted sophomore at his first fraternity party? You in the arms of a male dancer at that sorority event? Let’s face it, those were good times, but they aren’t a good advertisement for that professional position you’re seeking. Before you send out your first resume, clear out those pages and replace them with appropriate content.

5. Not knowing how much you’re worth

Just because you’re new to the job market doesn’t mean you should not expect a fair salary. Do some research on the starting rates for the types of jobs you are applying for. Armed with that information, you’ll be able to negotiate an appropriate salary when the time comes.

Let us help you avoid all the job-hunting mistakes

Give us a call. We are Pro Talent Group, one of Indiana’s fastest-growing minority- and woman-owned businesses. We have provided opportunities for contingent employees through our offices in Indiana, Illinois and Kentucky. We can also make direct hire placements in engineering, manufacturing and administrative positions nationwide.