Finding the right job

Finding the right job

Job searching involves more than searching for open positions and sending your CV to employers. You also need to make sure you’re a good fit for the role, that you can stand out (catch the employer/recruiter’s attention):

Know your job goals

Think about the type of job you want. Make sure this is a clear and realistic goal. Think about how you can achieve this and how you are qualified, (professionally and personally), for that kind of role. Doing this will help you narrow your job searches to positions you are passionate about and can achieve. It can also help you identify any additional experience or training you may need to achieve it.

Get organised

• Plan when you will do your job searching and stick to it. Schedule time and days to search, apply for roles and do any follow up tasks. Keep a list of positions you have applied for and any additional information, such as role, area, recruiter etc.
• Make sure you have an up to date CV that can be adapted to each role you apply for. Check out our tips for creating a great CV here and how to make the most of transferable skills.
• Update your profiles on professional networks like LinkedIn. Remember, recruiters will often check social networks to find out more about you. Read more social media and job searching.
• Think about creating a separate email account for your job searches to keep them separate from your own personal email. You don’t want to miss an important email among all the others you receive.

It can be hard work looking for a new position but being organised will lead to your job searching being more productive and positive.

Use all job search resources

Use all available job search options: online job boards (and sign up to get email alerts), registering with relevant recruitment agencies, company websites, access career guidance services and relevant professional associations like the IMI – you can even reach out to companies you’d like to work for to ask about potential positions.

Join forums or groups that are related to the industry and roles you are looking for, networking can provide you with advice from others and highlight potential opportunities.

Research 

When you find roles that you want to apply for, or companies you would like to work for, research them! This gives you valuable insight into the organisation and its values. You can then use this to enhance your applications helping demonstrate that you have the skills, experience and qualities they are looking for.

Be confident

Don’t be put off if you don’t meet all requirements of a role. If you can demonstrate that you have most of them but also have the motivation to learn and succeed, you can still be considered. An employer may be willing to invest in upskilling especially if you have the personal qualities and values they desire.

Build your skills and knowledge

There might be skills that you need to add, update or refresh to help with your applications. Look out for training and courses through local colleges, adult learning centres, community-funded projects, professional groups and online. Many are free or low cost. Updating your skills and knowledge can boost your opportunities and confidence.

Make contact

Don’t be afraid to speak to employers or recruiters before submitting your application. This gives you the opportunity to explore the role to help you adapt your application and also helps make a positive impression.

Be positive

If you are in employment but at risk of redundancy or looking for new opportunities, stay committed and positive to what you are doing. Maintain good relationships with managers and colleagues – you want this to be reflected in your reference for your new employer.

If you’d like some help or just want to chat through your options call us free on 08081 311 333 or chat with us online - we're here to help.