Applying for jobs
Job hunting needn’t be arduous if you take an organised approach.
There are hundreds of recruitment resources out there, both on the web and in print. To narrow things down a bit and ensure your head doesn’t explode from all the options, do your research and draw up a checklist of the most useful newspapers and websites; the ones that you should be looking at every week in order to spot new opportunities early. Make sure you stick to the list and routinely check each source while also exploring any new employment search options that you might come across.
When it comes to actually applying for a job, you’ll have to fill in an application form or submit a CV containing details of your previous experience. Application forms will usually contain sections where you’re asked to explain why you think you’re suitable for the job. This section is often the most important; if another applicant has a similar background, the answers you give here could put you ahead. Think carefully before you write, answer thoroughly but also make sure you keep it relevant.
Apparently, at least 70 per cent of resumes contain a lie of some sort. While it might be tempting to exaggerate your qualifications, with all the new database developments in recent years, you’re likely to be found out.
Instead, present your CV in a way that focuses on your strengths. Keep it simple but informative and use methods like bullet points and highlighting to make the most important stuff stand out.
Always include a covering letter to support the points you’ve outlined in the CV and add a bit of a personal touch to your application.
Finally, it’s some times a good idea to give your potential employer a call to make sure they received your application ok; it’ll demonstrate how keen you are and means you can double check that all your hard work hasn’t gone to waste.