Ask a friend to be the interviewer
It's frustrating being unemployed. Getting your foot on the job ladder is the most difficult part of any career, especially in a time of recession.
Sometimes it can be difficult to know what to do, so here we’ve put together some top tips to get you started. You’ll be getting that first job in no time.
Get your CV right
There’s no excuse for any inaccurate information on your CV or any spelling mistakes, so take the time to get it right. There are plenty of guides online to help you in writing your CV to have a look at. With a little research your CV will stand out to any employer.
Why not try asking a friend to read over it too? They’ll easily be able to spot any mistakes or inconsistencies you can’t see yourself.
Don’t be picky
In an ideal world everyone would do a job that they love, but unfortunately it doesn’t always work out. When looking for that first job, don’t be picky about what sort of job you want to do.
It’s much easier to get a job once you’re in one, so do everything you can to take that first step.
Build personal relationships
No matter how good your CV is, it’s vital that you build a personal relationship with the company you’re applying to.
Pick up the phone or go in and speak to them. Employers hire the right person rather than the right CV, so help them put a smiling face to your name.
This also applies if you’re looking to find a job to apply to. You are much more likely to find a job by going into small businesses, bars and clubs and asking them whether they have any jobs available rather searching online.
Don’t be afraid to ask; the worst they can do is say no! Also don’t be disheartened if they do say no – it’s about being in the right place at the right time.
Use your connections
If you’re struggling to find a vacancy in your area, try asking friends and family if they know of any available openings.
You’ll be surprised at just how much it can help to have someone in the business that you know.
Practise interview techniques
If you manage to get an interview, don’t panic – interviews are nerve-wracking for everyone! The best way that you can prepare is to practise, practise, practise.
Ask family or friends to take the role of the interviewer, or get down to your local job centre and ask them to give you some tips. Try to stay calm and be yourself!
Another great tip is to research the company as thoroughly as you can and learn as much as possible about them. An interview is the final hurdle before getting a job, so show the employer that you can do the job better than the other candidates.
Finding a job isn’t easy but as long as you’re determined enough to get out there and find one, you’ll succeed in the end.
Have you got more tips on how to find a job? We’d love to know your thoughts, so comment below!
By Julia Molloy
Tagged in Recruitment