Searching for a job is often a nerve-wrecking affair. Where do we even begin? Hopefully, the guide below makes job hunting a little bit easier!

What do you want to do?

It may seem like a simple question, but often the most challenging thing to do is to decide what you want to do. Think of what interests you and what motivates you, instead of thinking of how much you will get paid or how hard you have to work. As the famous saying by Confucius goes, “choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life”.

Be open to opportunities

Opportunities can spring up in the least expected places. If you missed out on a job opportunity, don’t worry! You can try and search for jobs in similar companies and searching by alternative job titles, or widen the geographical area of your search.

Prepare a good CV

A CV or resume is often the best document to let employers know about you. So use the opportunity to fill your CV with all your achievements to date – your academic and co-curricular activities, any additional skills you have, and even hobbies and interests. Do remember though, employers have many CVs to look at in a day, so try and keep your CV to a maximum of 1-2 pages.

Don’t become a ‘spammer’

Nowadays with online applications, it’s quick and easy to apply. You could find five jobs and apply for them all on the same day. But don’t send your CV to every company you come across. Employers look for applications that link your skills and abilities to the requirements of the job. Think quality, not quantity.

Prepare for your interview

When you do get called for an interview, make sure you are fully prepared. Think of answers to these typical questions:

1. Why do you want to work here?

2. Why do you want this job?

3. What is your plan for the future?

4. Why do you think you should be hired?

Try and read up as much as possible about the company and the job you are applying for. And it doesn’t hurt to prepare your best outfit for the interview!

Check your emails

Before or after interviews, employers may sometimes ask for additional information and it could affect your application if you do not reply quickly. Make sure you regularly check your emails so that you don’t miss out. Don’t be afraid to ask employers to wait if the items they require take time to find. Alternatively, if you don’t hear from employers, go ahead and email them to ask for a response. Be proactive.

Enjoy your interview

It may be frightening, but interviews are actually conversations – they are opportunities for the employer to know you better, to see if you are the sort of person that they would want to work with everyday. It’s also an opportunity for you to know more about the company, the job, and if you want to work there everyday!

References:

https://nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk/advice/getajob/howtofindajob/Pages/workonline.aspx