How to improve your chances of getting hired in the UK

If you have obtained a Global Talent Visa, it means you are already an exceptional specialist in your field. However, this is not the endpoint, but just the beginning of an exciting journey. Getting hired is challenging, especially in a new country. Here are some tips to boost your chances of finding a job in the UK.

Use job search websites and don't forget LinkedIn

Sign up on the largest job search platforms in the UK, for example: Reed, Totaljobs, TechnoJobs, Glassdoor, and BubbleJobs?(presents itself as №1 UK tech job board). At the same time, LinkedIn is still the main resource for finding a job, no matter what field you are interested in. So, if you want to make a good first impression on a future employer, update your LinkedIn profile regularly.

Make your CV stand out?

Statistically, an initial CV pre-screening takes around 10 minutes. In reality, an experienced recruiter can make their first decision in less than a minute, so make sure that your resume meets the following suggestions:

1. Personalisation. Your CV and cover letter should match the description of the specific role and be relevant to the requirements. The cover letter should explain why you are interested in this particular company and, most importantly, what you can bring to the company.
2. Length of your CV. A long CV tells HR that you haven’t even tried to update your resume. While the ability to put years of experience into a one-page document says a lot about your communication and presentation skills.
3. Key metrics. If you can succinctly outline your previous achievements and back them up with statistics, the recruiter is more likely to invite you for an interview.?

Be prepared for multi-stage interviews

If you are a senior IT specialist looking for a job with a top tech company in the UK, you'll have to be patient. There are legends about the long interview process in companies like “MAANG” (Meta, Amazon, Apple, Netflix, Google); unfortunately, many of them are true. When applying for a job at this level, be prepared that the interview may take 5-8 stages. According to Glassdoor research, the average interview process in the UK takes 27 days to complete.

Choose carefully between office and remote work?

There are mixed feelings about the future of remote work in the UK, but there is an emerging trend towards “hybrid work”. As expected, the popularity and success of working from home depends on the type of work and type of business. Generally, tech specialists find it easiest to work remotely. However, by considering only remote jobs you are limiting your options anyway. For instance, the percentage of remote job listings on LinkedIn decreased to 14% of all vacancies.?

Don’t underestimate networking?

“It’s not what you know, it’s who you know”. Networking is an essential part of your career path. Start building the bridges online before crossing them with a Global Talent Visa. While in the UK, attend events organised by professional communities, such as: Big Data London, British Computing Society, Tech Show London, etc. Who knows ––?maybe that's where you’ll find a future colleague, employer or even a friend.?

Be aware of work and cultural ethics

Punctuality is an integral part of business etiquette. Do your best not to be late, whether it's for a Zoom call or an offline meeting. It is also a good idea to master the art of small talk so that you can always keep the conversation flowing. Last but not least, explore the legal aspects of doing business, the hiring process, and the tax system in the UK –– your colleagues will appreciate your effort.?