Here are some common job search mistakes we see people making. Make sure you’re not one of them.

1. Lack of Focus. A clear career goal is the single most important component in a successful job search. Most people spend more time researching a laptop computer than they do their career goals.

2. Job Search without a plan. Every day, you should wake up knowing what you will do THAT day to move your job search forward.

3.Writing your resume first. Without a clear cut career goal, how will you know which experiences you neeed to highlight on your resume?

4. Jumping at the first job. It’s tempting to take the first job that comes along. And, it might even be the right job. But if it’s not, it’s easier to wait for the right job. You will be happier in the long run.

5. Not following up will stall any job search. I can’t believe how many people do not follow up with a thank you note to phone call. Appropriate follow up is what gets you the job.

6. Not using all the tools available to you. Posting resumes on various job boards is a good step but it is not a complete job search. Use your friends and family’s contacts. Take advantage of Twitter and Linked In.

7. Isolation. It’s lonely looking for a job. Make sure you meet up with someone or talk to someone every day. Join a networking group or do some volunteer work. It will help you see other people (and even make some contacts!)