Finding a job was hard enough before Covid hit, and now it’s even more difficult. The dire lack of jobs and the sheer number of applicants means it is getting harder to find employment. I have written this article in hopes that it helps you find a job whether it is your forever career or a part-time gig on the side!
- Know where to look
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It can be overwhelming trying to find jobs in the first place never mind applying for them. There are so many different places to look that it can all get a bit much. Fear not, I have compiled a list of job websites to get you started!
Reed – https://www.reed.co.uk/
LinkedIn – https://uk.linkedin.com/jobs
Indeed – https://uk.indeed.com/
UK gov – https://www.gov.uk/find-a-job
Totaljobs – https://www.totaljobs.com/jobs/website
Glassdoor – https://www.glassdoor.co.uk/index.htm
Scot Gov – https://applications.work-for-scotland.org/pages/job_search_results.aspx?searchtype=all
My job Scotland – https://www.myjobscotland.gov.uk/
- Make your CV stand out
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CVs can often all look very similar. It has been noted by a multitude of employers that CVs that automatically stand out in appearance grab their attention more than the plain and simple ones. This is why I would recommend using Canva to create your CV. Obviously, don’t make it super creative if the job you are going for is very serious – I’m not sure if the government would love a CV that is pink and covered in love hearts – but sectors such as Marketing and PR are known to love CVs that are more creative.
- If you get an interview, prepare for it
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There is nothing worse than sitting in an interview with multiple awkward silences. Clearly, you cannot fully prepare for the questions you are going to be asked as you won’t know them previously. However, there are some very typical interview questions which you could prepare answers for. You could also think of a few examples of what you are like in a working environment that you can call on when you are asked questions about your character. The most important thing is to be calm and think through the answers you are going to give – don’t ramble.
- Use the STAR method
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The STAR method is one of the most recommended structures to use when answering questions either in an application or interview. The acronym stands for Situation (set the scene and give necessary details for your example); Task (describe what your responsibility was in the situation); Action (Explain exactly what steps you took to address it); Result (what outcome was achieved). The STAR method is best for the behavioural question that starts with ‘Tell me about a time when ‘Have you ever or ‘Give me an example of’. It allows your answers to be clear and concise and often shows prospective employers that you have prepared.
Hopefully, these tips can help get you a job in no time!