Even senior level executives with decades of experience and 6-figure salary histories make mistakes when it comes to looking for new positions.  Common mistakes made by executives, especially those 50 or older include:

• Not explaining your experience adequately - executive candidates cite employers on resumes without explaining what the companies are and what they do. Jobseekers also don't describe their accomplishments specifically enough.  They fail to use numbers and percentages to illustrate achievements.  

• Relying on recruiters to get you a job - recruiters fill only 15% of all white-collar jobs. This is an especially ineffective method for executives 55 and older because there are fewer positions at this level and companies are looking for younger individuals to fill them.

• Seeking a full-time position if you are in your 50s - The reality is that job seekers in their 50s are unlikely to find full-time positions.  A more effective strategy is seek out contract or project opportunities.

• According to David B.Theobald, if you are a job hunter in your 50s, it would benefit you to spend only 15% of your time looking for a position and 85% of your time searching for project opportunities.

• Not conducting a targeted search - Don't send your resume everywhere to everyone. Know what you want to do.  Spend time conducting research to identify a select number of companies that appear to have the need for your experience and expertise. Write each of them a tailored letter outlining what you can do for them and why they are among the few companies you want to work for.

• Too many executives don't want to do the research to find these firms, but it is important.  You need to talk to people, or network, after doing the initial research.  

• Not recording a pleasant and professional voice-mail or answering-machine message - you have only one opportunity to make a first impression, and everyone believes that it is in a face-to-face interview, but often it is on the telephone.  Be sure the tone of your message on your answering machine is upbeat and professional.  Make sure you have a dedicated phone line for your job search or that your children and spouse take messages professionally.

• Saying you won't relocate - if a recruiter with an opportunity in another city contacts you and you say you will not relocate, you won't get other calls.  Also, if you and the company like each other enough, they might find a position for you in a place you want to live.

• Forgetting the interview is never over - everything you say and everything you do when you are with an interviewer, an employer, or recruiter will be considered when comparing you with other candidates.

• Stopping the search before you receive a written offer - many candidates do this and lose their momentum.  It may be that the interview goes very well and you feel confident that you will receive an offer.  Don't stop looking and networking keep applying for positions until you have an offer on paper. Too many people stop looking and never hear from the recruiter or employer again.

• Accepting a job that is a poor match - Don't take a job where the chemistry, culture, and philosophical fit are not right.