If you’re looking for a job and not sure where to start or how to present yourself, you’re not alone.
The rising cost of living has caused thousands of companies to lay off employees and many people have become unemployed.
Unemployment is near its lowest level since the 1970s. But there are about 10 million people out of work.
Finding a job can feel daunting at first, so we spoke to some career experts to give you some tips.
There have been many changes in the workplace in recent years. Hybrid and flexible working means your job search can literally go a little further.
Yvonne Smyth, Group Head of Diversity and Inclusion at Hays Recruitment says: “Proximity isn’t as important as it used to be, so when you’re looking for a job, you’re looking far and wide geographically.
“Even if you want to work part-time, or say four days a week, don’t let full-time positions stop you from applying,” she says.
“Companies are more flexible than you might think, and if you’re the right candidate who can get the job done in a few days, it makes sense that they adapt the role.”
Ms Smyth also says it’s important to use keywords when searching online.
“For example, if there’s a key skill or industry you’re interested in, like sales or retail, you want the algorithms on search platforms to pick it up.
“So it’s important to search for these words on a daily basis to help you identify what interests you.
“Engagement is also key, and that means clicking on jobs with the job titles or a company you like so the platform delivers more of them.”
Not all jobs are made public. It’s always worth emailing or chatting with a manager at a company you like as you never know when a position will open up.
Many companies want to avoid the expense of a formal job posting and may rely on word of mouth.
Miranda Kyte, career trends expert at Glassdoor, says, “Another way is to use your network to let friends, ex-colleagues, and family know that you’re looking for a new job.
“They may be able to search internal job boards for vacancies at their own companies and recommend you, or they may know someone who can help.”
Many jobs still require a resume and cover letter when applying for a job.
But now you can apply quite visibly through social media sites like Linkedin that showcase your skills and experience.
Other platforms like Twitter and Instagram can also come in handy when applying to potential employers.
Hays’ Yvonne Smyth says it’s important to focus on skills.
“A lot of people look at the required years in a job description, but actually it’s more important that a candidate has the right skills. Try to find parallels and make that clear in your application.”
It can be a little daunting when the jobs you want require certain, very specific qualifications. It may be worth taking a look to see if there are any opportunities to gain the experience or training you need to get a job while you’re out hunting.
Glassdoor’s Miranda Kyte says, “Many courses these days are free and can be taken online. Volunteering is also a great way to fill in gaps in your resume or ask to work as an intern at companies you would like to work for. “
It’s easy to get discouraged when you keep getting punched back after job interviews or feel like you can’t get through the door at all.
Our careers experts say it’s good to review how you’re going about your search from time to time and try different approaches.
Career influencer Mehar Sindhu Batra says setting personal goals, such as: For example, a tracker for the number of jobs you apply for in a week, or a specific number of cold emails.
She’s a firm believer in acknowledging the small victories along the way to keep the spirits up.
“Maybe you got an interview, got positive feedback on your resume or cover letter, or found a helpful contact. Celebrating those wins can boost your confidence and keep you motivated.”
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