Jobcentre work coach Julie shares her top tips for finding work.
It's important to make yourself stand out from the crowd when applying for a job – Julie's top tips will give you the best possible chance in the job hunt.
Make sure you're looking in the right place
You can look for jobs online, in newspapers, through recruitment agencies, and in Jobcentre Plus centres across the country.
Friends and family may also know of opportunities near you.
Write a great CV
It's really important to have a good CV. When writing yours, think about the skills you’ve learnt from previous jobs, or what you’ve learnt in school or college. You should also make sure you tailor your CV depending on the job you’re applying for.
If you don’t have much work experience, you can still show you have the skills employers look for through hobbies, education, or other interests. This will help you show that you can communicate well with other people, work well in a team, or other skills.
If you’re worried about including your age, leave it off! There’s no requirement to put your age on your CV.
Take your search online
LinkedIn has a big recruitment section, but have you got an account? It's free, and a great way to show your experience and personality to potential employers.
You should also check out Find a Job, one of the biggest free job sites in Europe. It’s open to everyone – you just need to create account.
Use your covering letter to sell yourself
Some companies will ask for a covering letter when you apply and this is your opportunity to explain why you're right for the job. It’s worth getting someone to check it for you to find any spelling or grammar mistakes – it’s not enough to rely on a computer spellcheck. Check out the National Careers Service website for advice on templates and what to include.
Make sure you're ready for interviews
If you get an interview, research the organisation to see what work they're currently doing and to find out their latest news. Demonstrating you have an understanding of the organisation and their industry will help set you apart from other interviewees. Dressing smartly, being on time, and asking at least one question about the role you’ve applied for are also good ways to impress in an interview.
If you’re unemployed and need help getting ready for the world of work, visit your nearest Jobcentre Plus, where specially-trained work coaches will help you on your way.
For more information, visit https://findajob.dwp.gov.uk/
