Looking for a job can be a full-time job in itself!
Constantly applying for jobs and not hearing back can make you feel very deflated and so I want to share some tips with you. By following these steps, you’ll find the process not so daunting, a whole lot easier, and much more enjoyable.
- Give yourself direction and know the job you want. Create a list of the non-negotiable’s and the nice to haves (Think about career progression, salary, remote working, parental policies, ESOP, the culture of the business etc)
- Get your CV up to date - have a templated version that you can easily tailor for each job that you’re applying for. Tailoring your CV for each job might sound like a lot of time but you’ll yield far better results
- Utilise LinkedIn: Connect with the hiring manager after an application (either Talent Acquisition or Line Manager) and ask them more questions about the company, the role, and their experience working there. Show you’ve done your research and ask questions to show your curiosity and interest.
- Utilise your network: Don’t just rely on job boards - speak to people. Target companies you’d love to work for with a personalised message and find out if they are hiring. Speak to your peers to find out how they progressed in their careers and who they know that might be hiring. Just start conversations!
- Make sure you’re asking the right questions during the first interview to qualify if this job aligns with what you’re looking for. If it’s not quite the job for you, don’t be afraid to tell them. Conserve your energy interviewing for jobs that you do want.
- If you’re unsuccessful, ask for feedback on what you could have done better and track this on your spreadsheet. Every time you’re preparing for an interview, you can read this feedback and know that you're putting your best foot forward.
Amongst all the other people applying for jobs, you’ve got to find ways to make yourself stand out and I believe, by following these steps, you’ll get much better results.
Lastly, don't let the rejection knock your confidence. When one door closes, another one opens. (Don't let the door fully shut, always keep in contact as you never know what could happen in the future!)
