Dos and Don'ts of Job Applications

Sissy Silva on May 23, 2025

tags: Career Advice, Job Search

Navigating job applications can be stressful. For someone with a cancer diagnosis, the process can often feel even more complicated and overwhelming with additional considerations like disclosure and managing the side-effects of treatment. Being prepared—and especially knowing what not to do—can make all the difference.

A recent article by Fast Company highlights some of the most common application missteps that job seekers should avoid. These are our top three takeaways:

1. Do follow instructions
Not following the instructions on a job application can show a lack of interest in the role. Additionally, trying to beat the system with tricks like hiding keywords in white text may seem clever, but recruiters can spot them quickly and it can send the wrong message about who you are as a candidate. Instead, stick to the materials requirement and focus on incorporating keywords from the job description in a way that reflects your real experience.

2. Don't forget to proofread! 
Mistakes in your resume and/or cover letter can negate any claims about being detail oriented and hurt your chances of landing an interview. Take the time to proofread everything before submitting anything. 

3. Do tailor your application
Avoid using a generic resume and cover letter for every job application. Tailoring your resume and cover letter to the job you are applying to shows you are a serious candidate and interested in the position.

To help you through this process, Cancer and Careers offers a number of Job Search resources and tools, including: 

  • Our Resume Review Service offers free, personalized feedback on your resume from one of our professional career coaches!
  • Check out our publications available for order and/or download, in particular our Job Search Toolkit, with a section on LinkedIn.
  • You can submit a question to our panel of professional career coaches via our Ask a Career Coach message board. Many people also find it helpful to search through our log of past questions to see if their specific concern has been addressed before or to spark an idea.
  • Cancer and Careers offers patient-focused webinars through our Balancing Work & Cancer Webinar Series. Our next webinar, First Impressions: Resumes and LinkedIn, is on Wednesday, June 4th, 2025 - 6 PM ET/3 PM PT.