There are numerous tools and resources available to guide job seekers through the steps of a career transition. These tools are very useful and suggest much that you should do. At the same time, some individuals benefit equally by learning what to avoid. If you count yourself in this latter group here is a laundry list of things that "turn off" an employer. Make sure you steer clear of the following:

1. Don't submit your cover letter and resume using every format known to man.

Don't fax, e-mail and send hardcopy; one submission is sufficient.

2. Don't "stalk" the employer.

Calling and e-mailing daily to see if you have been selected for an interview looks needy and will not encourage the employer to contact you.

3. Don't say in your cover letter that you'll call the employer and then not call.

Better yet, don't say you intend to call. Employers don't have time to field calls from every applicant.

4. Don't ignore the employer's directions regarding the submission of your qualifications.

For example - if an employer has advertised for a technical writer and requested three writing samples, send three samples. I once received an e-mail from one applicant saying he had so many great samples that he was unable to decide upon three, so he wasn't sending any.

5. Don't call the employer and ask them to tell you more about the job before submitting your resume.

If you see a position advertised that looks appealing, go for it. You can get the details later.

6. Don't e-mail and forget to provide the attachments or provide attachments that are blank.

7. Don't ask if the job is still open within a week or two of an advertisement.

Whether the job is open or not is almost irrelevant. You will want to give yourself as many options as possible and getting your resume on file can be important, especially if the employer's initial offer isn't accepted or an additional candidate is needed.

8. Don't expect the employer to do your homework.

It's your job to research the employer. Search the internet, go to the library, and utilize your network to see what information is available about the company.

9. Don't send a resume without a cover letter.

Simply stated, most employers view this as being lazy.

10. Don't make it hard for the employer to place you.

Employers frequently have more than one opportunity available, thus it is important that you specify the position for which you are applying.

Pam Woods

Pam is a respected authority on personal effectiveness. She has mentored hundreds of executives, managers, and professionals over the last three decades. Now, through her business, Smart WorkLife Solutions, she is helping individuals at home and at work to declutter their space, their schedules, and their lives. As a result, clients have more balance, a more focused approach to work and play, guilt-free time for themselves, and live their best life every day.

Pam has been selected as one of "The World's Greatest Business Mentors" - an honor bestowed to only 50 professionals internationally. The selection identifies her as an innovative expert whose skills, experience, and record of success qualify her as an unsurpassed resource and mentor for others. She has co-authored a bestselling book, Create the Business Breakthrough You Want: Secrets and Strategies from the World?s Greatest Mentors. The manuscript was written in collaboration with business gurus Brian Tracy, Mark Victor Hansen, and Robert G. Allen. Two highly respected authors, Ken Blanchard of The One Minute Manager,, and Dr. Stephen Covey of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, have endorsed the book.

Pam has been writing about systems and solutions to enhance personal effectiveness since early 2001. Her articles and advice have appeared in a variety of publications including the Des Moines Register, the Des Moines Business Record, CoachVille?s Resource Center, Iowa Next magazine and several newsletters and internet sites.

Prior to founding Smart WorkLife Solutions, Pam had a successful 20+ year career in financial services as an insurance executive and Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer for the U.S. operations of a multinational company. Pam is a graduate of Coach U and is pursuing advanced studies at the Graduate School of Coaching, and instruction from Dr. Phil?s own advisor. She is affiliated with the International Coaching Federation, CoachVille, the International Association of Coaches, and the National Organization of Professional Organizers. Pam earned a Bachelors degree from Drake University, and NASD Licenses: Series 6 & 63.