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3.) De-valuing voicemail. Imagine that you are a recruiter or potential employer. You are overloaded with resumes, in addition to your usual duties. A potential job candidate’s resume catches your attention and you give her a call, only to discover that she doesn’t have voicemail. Will you call her again later? How many times will you call, hoping to catch the candidate before you move on to the next?

Don’t risk missing out on your dream job because a potential employer can’t reach you. Utilize voicemail during an active job search and be sure to check your messages regularly.

The mistake that job seekers typically make regarding voicemail is the use of a less than professional voicemail message. Think of your voicemail message as an audition tape for potential employers. Give them a sample of how you will sound on the phone with their customers. Keep your message simple and eliminate background noise or music and slang.

Technology plays a large role in our everyday lives. The use of email, mobile phones, and text messaging make communications easier, more casual. Use technology strategically during your job search. It will give you a definite edge over the competition and keep you from making three sure-fire mistakes that scare off potential employers.