Sometimes, searching for a new job can feel like a fruitless task. If you’ve been making lots of applications over what feels like a long period of time, you might be reaching a point where you feel like giving up.
We’re here to tell you that you shouldn’t give up! If you’re not having much success with finding a job, it might be time to take a step back and review your application strategy. Take a look at our tips and see if you can make a few changes to improve your chances of success.
Review Your Job Search
You’re going to have a much harder time finding a job if you’re looking at positions that are out of your reach. Be realistic with yourself. Do you have experience in the sector you’re looking at? If you don’t, or only have limited experience, you should be aiming for entry level roles.
Similarly, if you’ve got a wealth of experience at the top end of your industry, you’ll probably raise a few eyebrows (in the wrong way) if you’re applying to mid-level positions. Unless you can give a very good reason why you want to go down a few rungs of the career ladder, you need to be applying to jobs that are a better reflection of your capability.
Update Your CV
A lot of people are guilty of applying for jobs without first updating their CV. This is a huge mistake, as you’re not going to be representing yourself in the best possible light. CVs are not just about your previous jobs and education. Experience is also a valuable aspect, which is often forgotten.
There are many achievements, both professional and personal, which are worth adding to your CV. These could include:
- Certificates from courses you’ve completed. These could have been done at work or in your personal time, and could be from work you’ve done in person or online.
- Volunteering opportunities you took.
- Hobbies you’ve dedicated lots of time to. It could be as simple as going to a gym regularly, or as grand as climbing a mountain.
- Personal achievements, which could be anything at all that you’re proud of. These don’t need to have anything to do with work, or be related to your work industry at all.
You may be wondering why you should include these things, even if they don’t directly relate to work. In many cases, your achievements can fill in some of the ‘gaps’ in your CV. Maybe you don’t have the exact training qualifications an employer is after. However, you might have similar experience from a volunteering position, or show an aptitude for learning through a long list of online courses you’ve taken.
Prepare For Interviews
If you’ve managed to get a few interviews but haven’t had any job offers, you might need to reassess your interviewing techniques. It’s important that you present yourself as well as you possibly can.
Consider how you’re presenting yourself when you meet potential employers. Are you dressed smartly? If in doubt, it’s always best to over dress for interviews. As well as your clothing, make sure that your hair is well groomed and an appropriate style. Some jobs won’t allow unnatural hair colours, so you may need to consider a change if your hair might be affecting your job search. As well as that, any piercings may also need to be removed or covered up.
Your appearance isn’t the only thing that matters. Your communication should also be considered. Ensure you’re approaching the interview with a smile and a friendly attitude. There are many cases where successful candidates are chosen due to their personalities and ability to make good connections with their interviewers.
Apply With Search4Local Jobs
If you’re struggling to secure a new job, the team at Search4Local Jobs can help. Our team can help you to represent yourself in the best possible light, and give you support with your applications. Take a look at our available positions today, or contact us directly for further information and guidance.