You have created a brilliant CV so now it’s time to apply for a job. There are numerous ways in which employers will advertise jobs and some opportunities may arise through word of mouth (from people you know)
This guide will tell you all you need to know about where to search for jobs and how you may be asked to apply.
Where to search
The majority of organisations will have a dedicated careers page on their website where job vacancies will be advertised alongside information about the job. It is important to read through this information thoroughly – some jobs may have specific requirements. Some organisations may allow you to sign up to receive job alerts when they are hiring. Many of these allow you to specify the type of job or location you wish to receive notifications for (saves your inbox becoming inundated).
Usually, there will also be a direct link to an application form you will be asked to complete and I will touch more on this later.
If you are searching for part time work, I would definitely recommend keeping an eye on shop windows as many employers, particularly retailers, will have an advertisement in their store window. However, these will usually only be displayed for a short while so best to apply as soon as you see them.
There are also recruitment websites you can look at that will allow you to search for jobs. Again, most of these can send you notifications for jobs that suit your preferences. Sometimes you may come across a job opportunity through people you know.
How to apply
Online Application Form
The majority of employers will ask you to complete an online application form. This will ask you for personal details i.e name and contact information, previous experience and education. You may also be asked some questions such as “what would you do if?” or “have you ever?”
At this point, you may be asked to provide the details of references. These are people who can vouch for your previous experience, qualifications and skills and explain why you are the right person for the job.
Your references could be a previous manager, teacher/lecturer, voluntary organisation leader or at a push someone who knows you really well and can vouch for you professionally. Your reference should not be a family member. Make sure you ask if this person is willing to provide a reference before offering their details.
Top tips
- Double check your spelling and grammar before submitting
- Make sure your answers make sense
Send in a copy of your CV
Some employers may ask you to send them a copy of your CV and possibly a cover letter. You may need to email it to them or perhaps directly hand it into them. It is likely there will be a closing date for accepting CVs so make sure you send it to them in plenty of time.
Visiting Employers
Just because companies are not currently advertising job vacancies does not mean you cannot make contact with them to let them you are interested in working for them. There is no harm in printing copies of your CV and handing them into local employers.
Top tips:
- Keep a list of all the places you visit. You wouldn’t want to hand your CV into the same place more than once.
- Be friendly and polite to any members of staff you interact with. Even if they are not the manager does not mean they won’t have any input in hiring decisions.
- Do not walk in visibly carrying lots of copies of your CV. Remember you are creating the impression that you are genuinely interested in working for them. If you make it obvious that you are visiting lots of employers, you will not give the impression that you have a genuine interest in working there. Keep any other copies of your CV in a bag or take someone else with you and ask them to hold them.
