10 Tips for Finding a New Job
With the furlough scheme coming to a close, many businesses are having to make staff redundant as they lose the support from the Government. This is going to mean that the job market will be even more competitive. So unless you are one of the lucky few who work in a high-demand career, you need to be prepared for the challenge.
It isn’t all doom and gloom though. We are here to help you put together a proactive strategy in order to land your next new job. Here are some of our top tips.
Be clear on the job you would like
Is now the time that you leave the usual 9-5 to set up your own training centre? Or after working within organisations for many years, have you considered becoming a freelance Assessor? Take the time during this break to really identify what job you would like. Have a look at your life – is your work/life balanced enough? Or do you need a career that gives you more flexibility? The better you know what you want, the more likely you are to find a job that provides you with satisfaction and a drive to achieve great things.
Spend time researching companies
Once you have identified the job you would like, you now need to spend time finding the companies that offer these roles. Have a look at their website, and get a feel of the company culture too. After all, there is nothing worse than having the perfect job but just not feeling like you fit into the team. Glassdoor is a great website to give you more specific information about a company and its current employees.
Don’t send a blanket CV
Recruiters receive hundreds of CVs for roles that they are advertising; so sending a generic CV is going to put yours at the bottom of the pile. Try writing your CV in a way that answers the specification of the job you are applying to, and make yourself an obvious fit. Rather than focusing on the responsibilities you have had in previous roles, try to make your achievements stand out instead.
Use your network of contacts
Remember those LinkedIn connections that you have been building up over the years – now is the time to use them! A large, strong network of contacts will result in more job opportunities. Let people know that you are #OpenForWork and get networking (via Zoom for now). Don’t be afraid of reaching out to people on LinkedIn; particularly if you know someone who works in the company that you are interested in.
Don’t just apply online
Whilst door knocking isn’t exactly an option given the current climate, you don’t just have to limit yourself to applying for jobs online. Going back to the list of companies that you are interested in and have researched, try getting in touch with them directly. You may want to find the contact details of the internal recruiter (hello LinkedIn stalking!). Or, just pick up the phone and give them a call. The hardest part is getting your foot in the door to begin with.
Take time out each day for job-related tasks
It takes a lot of regular effort and motivation to find a new job, so having a to-do list of goals when it comes to your job search can really help with this. When you tick off daily tasks this can give a little boost and also help to break up the day slightly!
Be kind to yourself
Searching for a new job can feel like a continuous slog. Don’t spend the whole day on job sites as you will become demotivated very quickly. Take time out to exercise, do some yoga, or just take part in activities that you enjoy. Talk to those around you and ask them for support if you need it.
Develop examples that showcase your skills
Now is the time to get that CPD record up to date and collate your portfolio. People tend to remember stories, so start thinking about any situations that you have been in which could be a good example of problem-solving, for example. As you have more time on your hands, would taking up a distance learning course help to improve your portfolio? Showing that you not only have the skills, but also the knowledge required for the role.
Prepare for your interview
Congratulations on getting through the hardest part – gaining an interview. Now you have got this far, don’t let yourself down at the final hurdle. Preparing for the interview is key. Write down your responses to some key interview questions, and if you can have a mock-style interview with a friend. Remember to compile your own list of questions to ask at the interview too as this shows you have taken the time to research the company and the role.
Thank the interviewers
Once you have completed the interview, send a quick note by email that same day. Not only does this show your good manners, but it helps to emphasise how you will fit in with both the job and the employer. Most people forget this stage, so it will help you stand out from the other applicants too.
Final Notes
It will take longer than you think to find the perfect job, so mentally prepare yourself for this. It may be months before you are offered a position, and within this current climate unfortunately things are even harder than normal. If you would like any help with putting your CPD together or any information on the Assessor qualifications that we offer, feel free to call us on 01205 805 155 or email training@brooksandkirk.co.uk
Steve is a Chartered Manager and a Fellow of the Chartered Management Institute.
He provides Educational Consultancy to the 19+ sector as well as being an Assessor, IQA, EPA and Digital Marketing Professional. When not doing any of these he finds time, every now and then, to write blogs and articles.