If you’re currently out of work then you’re no doubt aware of the frustrations associated with job hunting. This is a challenging time to be looking for a new position and you may already have tried numerous routes for gaining new employment, such as creating targeted CVs, doing practice interviews or registering with recruitment agencies and online job boards.
If you’ve tried all of these tactics without success then it may be time to consider a new approach.
- Take the initiative
Estimates suggest that around 80% of vacancies are never publicised, and those that are can attract hundreds of applications, so you need to find ways of leapfrogging the competition. Create a list of companies that might have relevant positions and send your CV and a covering letter directly to the HR manager or other senior contact outlining your skills and experience.
- Be different
Think about ways to stand out from the crowd when contacting companies. Use topical events to your advantage: for example, at Easter you could send your CV and covering letter along with a chocolate egg. They might not have any jobs at that time but it will certainly get their attention and put you front of mind when a vacancy does arise. The aim is to get a foot in the door and be invited for an interview, which is often the hardest part.
- Network, network, network
It’s a word that can send shivers down the spine of even the most confident jobseeker, but there’s no doubting the value of networking if you’re hunting for that elusive role. This doesn’t mean that you have to attend every business event in town or launch yourself dementedly at prospective bosses!
What you should be doing though is making sure that all relevant contacts know that you’re available and where your particular strengths lie – these may include former colleagues or clients, fellow members of clubs and societies, your extended family, friends and former teachers and many others.
- Polish your online profile
Depending on the kind of work you’re looking for, there’s a good chance that a potential employer will use the internet to assess whether you are a suitable candidate. For that reason, it’s worth doing your own search to see what comes up. The results of a personal Google search can sometimes be surprising and may include activity from the likes of Twitter that could be highly revealing about your personality and habits. Alternatively, you might not be visible enough, in which case you could be overlooked in favour of more active candidates.
- Prove your worth with a vocational qualification
Sometimes all the experience and contacts in the world aren’t quite enough to tip the balance in your favour. If your CV is a bit thin on the ground when it comes to qualifications then consider adding another string to your bow with a professional, vocational course.
Vocational study is ideal because it focuses on practical skills that are of genuine interest to employers. Make sure the course you choose is professionally accredited and delivered by a recognised training provider so that it adds genuine value to your CV.