Starting the search for a new role can be tricky, where do you start? As Companies have hit their first quarter, there will be more targets, projects and demands that need to be met. Therefore, Hiring Managers have discovered their recruitment needs, there’s no better time to start your search. Spring is all about new beginnings and a fresh new outcome. So here’s how you can start ticking off your job search checklist.
Identify your strengths and interests
Start by assessing your skills, experience, and what type of work you currently enjoy doing. If you find there are certain aspects in your role you thoroughly enjoy then create a list of these aspects. Other tasks you don’t like as much, add these into a different column. Also do this with existing companies benefits and perks you would like to achieve in your next role. This way you are able to shape exactly what you are looking for and narrow down your job search to positions that align with your strengths and interests.
Update your CV and cover letter
Next stages are your CV. You need to make sure this is entirely up to date, with latest achievements and data. As a basic template make sure to include:
- Contact information (including Name, DOB and Postcode),
- Summary (You key strengths and achievements, along with what you are wanting to get out of your new role)
- Work experience (Include your latest roles, dates to and from and exactly what each job entailed – using statistics to justify your work is a great add-on)
- Education (Include GCSEs and A-Levels)
- Skills (Here will be the key skills that someone who is viewing your CV will be able to quickly can – so make it count!)
Make sure your CV and cover letter are up to date and tailored to the specific job you are applying for. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that make you a good fit for the position.
Use job search websites
Once your CV is complete, start uploading it to the job boards. You can browse all live vacancies and set up alerts for your exact requirement that will be sent directly to your inbox. You can browse the latest job opportunities on websites such as LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor, and Monster. These sites give you the option to narrow your search by location, salary, and job type.
Network
Networking is nothing more than getting to know people. This can be face-to-face at tech events or via an online platform. By being connected to people within your given industry you may be able to discover hidden jobs that may not be on the surface of your usual job board. If you connect with someone on LinkedIn and see that they have a job listed, or perhaps you love the company and want to send over your CV for future vacancies this professional platform is perfect for just that. By personalising a message that highlights why you WANT to work for that company it will make a big difference in the next steps to the process. Plus, your job network will always be bigger and more powerful than you think.
Use a Recruiter
Recruiters are useful in a multitude of ways. By sending your CV off to multiple recruitment agencies you are able to cast your net further than you would be able to alone. Recruiters are able to save you time and effort by submitting the CV on your behalf, arrange interviews, prep you for your interview and then give you feedback. Recruiters also give personal advice about current market trends, salary expectations and much more. This thorough support throughout the process allows you to be able to succeed in a role that is well suited – this is where Hirecracker can help!
Follow up
After sending off your CV whether it’s to a job board, through networking or via a Recruiter you should always remember where you have submitted this and keep a note. If you haven’t heard back from a week and were really interested in the position it could be worth asking for an update in the recruitment process.
Prepare for interviews
Preparation is key. Research the company and the job position before the interview. Allowing you to know their company values and beliefs along with their employer brand and culture. Practicing common interview questions will help you feel at ease when it comes to the real thing. Questions such as:
- What drew your attention to the role for you to apply?
- What are your strengths?
- What do you understand about this company already?
- How do you feel your previous experience will help you in this role?
If you are well prepared for the basics and take a second to pause and reflect on your answers so they are concise and to the point it’s a great starting point! Some interviews are now online, however you still need to be ready on time to interview. Punctuality reflects well on first impressions for the business as well as increasing your stress levels. If the interview is face-to-face we always suggest looking at your transport route and giving yourself extra time, allowing you to arrive 15 mins before the interview.
Finding the right job doesn’t happen overnight. If you feel like you have sent out 20 CV’s and not heard anything back then don’t let this set you back. Make sure to:
- Keep applying,
- Networking and showcasing your skills and achievements on LinkedIn,
- Use a Recruiter such as Hirecracker to help you find your next career
- Be prepared!
Get in touch with one of our Recruiters today to take the ease out of your job search – [email protected] or call us on 01244 739 300.
