I wrote a blog post “Top 10 Signs You’re Not Serious About Your Job Search” a while ago. I originally wrote it to guide recent graduates who claimed they wanted to find a job but clearly we’re taking action to get hired.

 Young people are not the only job seekers who expect to be hired without putting much thought or effort into their job search or career planning. I have recently talked with a few adults who think simply wanting a new job is enough to make a new opportunity magically appear.

 ~ Top 10 Signs You’re Not Serious About Your Job Search  ~

Three of these signs ring true for many unmotivated or unfocused job seekers:

You cannot clearly describe your skills and qualifications, and how they fit the job you want. If you went to a neighborhood party and met the hiring manager of your dream company, how would you introduce yourself and describe your qualifications? If you have to think about it too long, or simply don’t know what you bring to an employer, how can you expect someone to help you find the right job?

You cannot name five job titles that match your qualifications. Do you know all the positions that fit your skills and interests? What about the industries or types of companies that might hire someone with your experience? Bottom line: If you don’t know where you want to go, how can you know how to get there?

You don’t have a clear idea of where you want your career to be in three to five years. During a job interview, a quick way for employers to know how serious you about working for them is to ask about your career plans. If you name jobs not related to the one you’re applying for, employers will see that as a red flag and know that you’re not really interested in the work they do.

Read about the other 10 signs you’re not serious about your job search and find ways to move your career forward.