Jun 06, 2016 05:33 PM EDT

5 Ways You’re Ruining Your Job Hunting, Applications Aren't Enough

By Jane Reed

So you must be thinking that you're totally unqualified for the job you applied for. Which is why you never got a call back. But maybe there is a different reason, maybe it was you who hindered your own chance at landing that job.

The reasons as to why you're not getting the job you want may just shock you. According to Market Watch, some American employees are not happy with their current jobs. About fewer than half of all workers indicate low job satisfaction scores. These reasons include lower than desired wages, promotion policies and a mediocre or no bonus plan. A recent survey from Career Builder collected over 4,500 employee scores when it comes to job opportunities. Below are the reasons found as to why these job applicants didn't get the job:

1. Job applicants are too patient. - Rebecca Barnes-Hogg, co-author of "Rethinking Human Resources," says that applicants always wait to be contacted for the next steps. They can follow up on their own with a well-crafted thank you note. Add a follow-up to it by saying you're excited for the opportunity.

2. Job applicants put too much focus on education - It's nice to see and know that the applicant went to Harvard or some high profiled college or university. However, managers know that op performers mostly come from top schools, and many say that skills like experience, past performance and how you handle yourself in the workplace are more important.

3. "No means no" - Candidates shouldn't take no as the final answer. Indeed, more than half of employers say they want to re-engage with past candidates, which means that applicants should stay in touch even if they don't get a job offer the first time. So ask if it's okay to stay in touch.

4. Job applicants think a resume is enough. Managers know that the resume doesn't always provide enough information. Recruiters would need a cover letter, portfolio and sometimes links to accessible sites for them to make a decision. -So go ahead and make one.

5. Job applicants don't highlight "soft skills." - Managers value soft skills especially for leadership roles. They don't always focus on the results of your recent project. Career Builder found that 63% of employers want to know about soft skills. So highlight your work attitude and dependability.

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