5 Mistakes Kenyan Job Seekers Make—And How to Avoid Them
Searching for a job in Kenya can be frustrating—especially when you’re not hearing back from employers. Many qualified candidates miss out on great opportunities not because they’re not good enough, but because of avoidable mistakes during the job application process.
Here are the top 5 mistakes Kenyan job seekers make, and more importantly, how to avoid them and boost your chances of getting hired.
❌ 1. Using the Same CV for Every Job
The Mistake:
Sending a generic CV to every employer without tailoring it to the job you’re applying for.
Why It’s a Problem:
Hiring managers can instantly tell if your CV is copy-pasted. It shows a lack of effort and doesn’t highlight the specific skills they’re looking for.
✅ How to Avoid It:
Always customize your CV and cover letter for each role.
Use keywords from the job description.
Highlight the most relevant experience for that specific position.
❌ 2. Ignoring the Cover Letter
The Mistake:
Leaving out the cover letter or using a one-size-fits-all message.
Why It’s a Problem:
A cover letter is your chance to tell your story, explain gaps in employment, and show why you’re a great fit.
✅ How to Avoid It:
Write a new cover letter for each job.
Keep it short, specific, and focused on how you’ll add value to the company.
Mention achievements and show genuine interest in the organization.
❌ 3. Applying for Jobs You’re Not Qualified For
The Mistake:
Blindly applying for every job you see—even if it clearly requires skills or experience you don’t have.
Why It’s a Problem:
It wastes your time and makes recruiters overlook your application entirely.
✅ How to Avoid It:
Read job descriptions carefully.
Only apply if you meet at least 70–80% of the requirements.
Focus on roles where your skills genuinely match.
❌ 4. Poor Online Presence (or None at All)
The Mistake:
Not having a LinkedIn profile—or worse, having an incomplete or unprofessional one.
Why It’s a Problem:
Recruiters often check your online profile to learn more about you. If you’re invisible online, you miss out on passive opportunities.
✅ How to Avoid It:
Create a professional LinkedIn profile.
Add your work experience, achievements, and a clean profile photo.
Engage with industry content to build visibility.
❌ 5. Not Following Up After Interviews
The Mistake:
You attend an interview, then go silent and just hope for a callback.
Why It’s a Problem:
It shows a lack of initiative and weak interest in the position.
✅ How to Avoid It:
Send a thank you email within 24 hours.
Briefly re-emphasize your interest and why you’re a great fit.
Politely ask when you can expect feedback.
🚀 Bonus Tip: Stay Updated with Verified Jobs
Thousands of Kenyans waste time on fake job posts or fall for scams. Always apply through trusted job boards and verified employers.
👉 Visit www.dreamjob.co.ke for:
Daily updated job listings
Free CV resources and templates
Internship and graduate programs
Career tips tailored to Kenyan job seekers
🔚 Final Thoughts
Job searching doesn’t have to feel like a dead-end. By avoiding these common mistakes, staying prepared, and applying smartly, you’ll increase your chances of landing that dream job in Kenya.
Need help with your CV or LinkedIn?
Reach out to us at cvhelp@dreamjob.co.ke for support.
