Finding a new job can often be a challenging and even frustrating experience. Whether you are looking for a change, or trying to get back to work, there are some simple tips that will make your job search easier, and increase your chances of success.
These are applicable for everyone from newly-qualified graduates and school-leavers to experienced candidates, as well as those who are thinking about changing industries or career.
Here’s how to get started on your job search:
Work out what you want
If your current job isn’t the right fit for you, try to understand why, and if this relates to a temporary or more longstanding issue. Before taking the plunge with a job search, you can also explore the options with your current employer. They may be willing to support a change within the company, or provide a career progression plan.
If you aren’t currently working, take the time to reflect on your strengths and weaknesses, and what you enjoy doing. This will provide some insight into the type of work you want to do.
For example, if you like dealing with people on a regular basis and pride yourself on your organisation skills, you could consider a role in office admin or secretarial work. If you want to utilise your creative flair, a career in marketing could provide that opportunity.
Do your research
They say information is power, and this applies to every stage of the job search process from finding the career for you right up to and including the interview stage.
Research the roles that interest you and find out the skills and requirements companies are looking for within those positions. If you find you have a gap in your skills and experience, training options, work experience, and even taking on extra responsibilities in your current role can plug that gap.
Use your network
If you know someone (or know someone who knows someone) in a similar role, reach out to them and get some insight into their day-to-day experience. Most people are more than happy to talk about themselves when given the opportunity, and you will get a valuable input from a trusted source.
Likewise, if a friend or contact is working where you have applied, they might be able to provide a referral. Most companies welcome referrals and will have dedicated referral policies for current employees.
You can also use sites like LinkedIn to contact people who have experience in your field.
Don’t go it alone
Talking to a friend or family member about your job search will offer a different perspective and can provide support and encouragement when you need it.
If you are a recent graduate of a third level institution, it is likely that you can avail of alumni career advice. Likewise, Pitman Training Clare provide free career consultations and CV reviews to fine tune your applications.
Quality over quantity
Your CV is most likely the first impression that an employer will get of you. You wouldn’t appear for an interview with a coffee stain on your shirt, and likewise your CV should be easy to read and typo-free.
More than that however, you also need to make sure that your CV answers the questions a prospective employer will ask. Take some time to tailor your CV for each role to highlight how your profile perfectly fits the requirements.
Prepare and practise
‘Fail to prepare, prepare to fail.’ Never is this truer than with job interviews, but that doesn’t mean learning lines by rote.
Instead, prepare examples and stories that showcase your skills, and develop responses for other common questions.
Part of preparing is practising, and that means finding a friend or family member who will conduct a mock interview with you. The more familiar you are with speaking about your experience, the more comfortable you’ll be for the real thing.
Be kind to yourself
There aren’t any shortcuts to success, and the job search process can be a long one. Rejection is part of the game, but try not to let it get you down.
Stay relevant by keeping your LinkedIn profile active and updated, and consider every interview as vital experience for the next one. You can also use your time productively by building the skills and experience you need for your desired role.
And remember, a positive attitude is a highly sought after attribute for any employer.
Did you know?
Pitman Training Clare offer free career consultations and CV review clinics for jobseekers in Clare. To get in touch with our Course Advisors in Clare, email us at [email protected], call us on 065 689 3509 or Whatsapp/SMS on 086 065 8563!
