Effective Job searching – Make Your Job Search Count
Any job search will be more successful if you are clear about what you want. Planning your search from the start could land you the job you want.
Job searching can be a very time consuming process. Get it right first time!
Job hunting can be a particularly stressful time for a lot of people, particularly if it has been a long time since the last job change or the job search is unplanned following redundancy. Approaching it correctly from the outset can save you a significant amount of time and wasted effort. Our guide below should help you to focus your efforts and ensure that you do not waste your time.
If you engage a CV writing company such as CV Master Careers, all you will need to do is pick your time for a consultation. We offer an Express service especially for those you who are allergic to planning! However, for best results we recommend that you allow time for your Consultant to work in finding the best way to present your unique skills and abilities. We offer a 100% Customer Satisfaction Guarantee, so we will work together with you in creating a CV that you are 100% happy with.
Finding Vacancies
You can look at a variety of sources to get information about jobs in your area, or worldwide.
Job Boards
A range of positions can be found quickly and easily on the internet via the various job websites (Job Boards) available. If you are targeting a particular sector it may be useful to search for a dedicated jobs board for your field. It can also be helpful to sign up to job websites covering a mix of local and national vacancies to ensure maximum coverage and sign up for job alerts by email where possible to make sure you do not miss a new posting. We provide our Professional CV clients with a list of suitable jobs boards so that once their CV is ready they can start using it.
With over 500 Million members and growing every day LinkedIn is becoming a more popular way to be found by employers. For beginners, it is simply a business networking website that allows employers to search for candidates. When job searching, it can be another tool to help you. It can also be used to find vacancies. If you are new to LinkedIn or are struggling with setting it up we can help you to prepare an effective LinkedIn Profile, so that the jobs can come to you.
Traditional / Print Media
Vacancies can be found quickly and easily, if you know where to look. Newspapers are now largely overlooked as a source of jobs but many local and national newspapers still have limited details of job vacancies in print as well as online job sections that carry a wide range of positions. They can also be a good source of information if you are looking to make a speculative enquiry. You can look out for any growing businesses that could potentially suit your career plans. A business that is expanding could be an ideal company for you to target. You could pay particular attention to the news and business sections. We find that it is excellent interview preparation to be aware of key trends and developments in your industry.
Job Events
Job Fayres and Recruitment / Networking Events can be a great way of finding new roles and making contacts to help your job-search. Be aware of Industry specific events; find out where and when they are held. You could join an association or networking group, this could help you to access the hidden jobs market. Many jobs are not advertised in every publication and it may be worth speaking to employees or companies directly. Once you know who is responsible for hiring new staff you can look for future trade fairs, exhibitions or opportunities to make contact with them.
Word of Mouth / Networking
You could let your network that you are seeking a new opportunity, whilst also being sensitive to your current position. Your contacts may be able to find out about new positions or jobs that you might be interested in. Everyone has a wider circle of contacts, such as family members or friends who could help. You could know previous or current employees, for one of your target companies. It is important that you tell as many people as possible what you are looking for, so they can help you find it. You may find unexpected help in the unlikeliest of places!
Information Gathering
Gather as much information about prospective employers that you can, from a wide variety of sources.
Internet
Most companies have websites where you can download current job applications and job specifications. If you are thinking of applying for a job with a specific company make sure that you have done your research. Finding out information about a potential employer will help you to decide if that company is right for you or if you will fit in with the company culture. The more knowledge and information you have, the more prepared you will be for any job interviews that you may land!
Record your Findings
You could be super organised and compile a file or spreadsheet so that you know what jobs you have applied for. Keeping your records effectively can help save you time and also helps you to look professional. Make sure that your CV is completely up to date and that it highlights your industry specific and transferable skills. If you need help please call us on 0800 246 1857 for assistance or click here for more information about the range of CV services that we offer.
Staying on Track
It can be difficult to stay organised and motivated, if you stay professional you will be more successful.
Plan Ahead
Your job search will be infinitely more successful if you take some time to plan your CV and your job search approach from the beginning. By becoming a CV Master Careers Client, you will have access to almost 14 years of experience, which will give you the edge over the competition.
Tailor your CV
The most important advice that we can give you is to tailor your CV for every position that you apply for. This will ensure that you highlight the correct skills for the job and improve your chances of your CV being read. An employer will only want to read a targeted CV. If your CV is subject to sifting by ATS software the CV may be rejected if it is not targeted correctly.
Stay Positive
It can be difficult to get and stay motivated, especially in the face of rejection. We understand that searching for a job can be difficult. We are here to help and we understand the challenges that you are facing. All career stages have their challenges and our clients often change direction. We can help you to ensure that your job search is successful. If you would like to find out how we can help you please call us to discuss your situation. You can reach us on 0800 246 1857.