Everyone makes mistakes when job hunting—but for mob, barriers can feel harder to navigate. At Indigenous Employment Australia, we want to set you up for success.
Here are 5 common slip-ups we see—and how to avoid them.
- Not tailoring your resume: Generic resumes won’t cut it. Highlight community work, cultural skills, or roles with cultural organisations. Employers love to see your values in action.
- Being too humble: Blak excellence doesn’t mean bragging—but it’s okay to talk yourself up. Your skills matter. Practice confidence in interviews by preparing key points about your strengths.
- Skipping opportunities for mentorship: Mentors can help you navigate systems that weren’t built for us. Reach out to Indigenous employment programs or ask around in your community.
- Not preparing for cultural bias: Sadly, discrimination still happens. Practise answering tricky interview questions and know your rights. ATSIJobs offers resources and advice if you feel uncomfortable.
- Thinking you have to do it alone: You don’t. Our community is strong. We’re here to connect you to jobs, support services, and mob who want to lift you up. You’ve got this!
Another common issue we see is not knowing how to follow up. After applying or interviewing, it’s okay—and encouraged—to check in respectfully. A quick email shows initiative and keeps your name front of mind. It also opens the door to feedback that can help you improve next time. Finally, remember that your identity is a strength. Sharing your connection to culture, Country, or community in a respectful way can make you stand out.
Employers increasingly value lived experience and cultural insight.
Be proud of your story—it can inspire others and help you step into roles where you can create change.
