Looking for a job can be extremely challenging, and there are tons of different factors that go into determining whether your job search is going to be successful or not.  While the U.S. unemployment rate was at one of its lowest at 3.6% in October 2019, changes in corporate culture and trends in the market mean that there are still hundreds of thousands of Americans who are looking for work. If you haven't had any luck so far, then here are some things that might be hindering your job search.

A Poor Cover Letter

A cover letter is the first impression you'll ever make on an employer, so it has to be absolutely perfect. Unfortunately, hitting the right beats on a cover letter can be difficult if you aren't sure how to word it. Aviation Job Net outlines the important information your cover letter should contain, including a personalized letter heading, the type of job that you're seeking, your certifications, and a brief explanation of why you want the position.

Confusing Resume Format

Hiring managers go through dozens, if not hundreds of applications at a time. Your application needs to be able to grab their attention in a positive way. Often, it can be tempting to make your resume look flashy with a colorful layout and other unnecessary graphic design features. However, that can distract from the meat of your application, which is what hiring managers will be looking at anyway. Harvard career experts recommend a resume that is clean-looking, simple and highlights your unique qualities.

Wrong Search Terms

The internet can be an important and essential tool in your job search, but it also comes with its downsides. There are hundreds of thousands of job postings available online, and it might be hard to find the one that's the right fit for you. Try to look for postings for jobs you are interested in, and then make use of the same keywords in your search. Employers use more or less the same language, and using industry terms will increase your chances of finding relevant listings.

Mismatched Qualifications

When searching for a job, it may be tempting to apply anywhere and everywhere. However, that can be detrimental for you in the long run, as it takes precious time and energy away from searching for jobs that are right for you. Mismatched qualifications are one of the main reasons why job applications don't move on to the next step, which is why it's important that you read the posting carefully. The Balance Careers has a list of tips on how to match your qualifications to the right job that may prove helpful in writing out your resume. 

Poor Interview Etiquette

Finally, one thing that could be hindering your job search is poor interview etiquette. Not all applications make it to the interview stage, so you should be maximizing the opportunity. Avoid arriving to the interview late, with food and drink, or with other companions like friends or family. Try to maintain a professional look, both in clothing and demeanor, and remember that this is your chance to put your best foot forward. Focus on how to present yourself properly, and you might increase your chances of getting a callback.