Vacancies

Finding vacancies, applying for them and going for interviews will take time and energy. Anything you are interested in, others will be too. Always find out as much as possible about the job or course you are applying for. Make sure you get across the relevant skills you have on application forms, CVs and at interviews.

• Get as many people as possible looking for you. Sign up with the Connexions Service and recruitment agencies. Over 18s can use the local Jobcentre Plus office. Make sure your friends and family know what you’re looking for too.
• Use local job fairs to speak to employers about what they’re looking for and how they recruit. Go prepared with copies of your CV. Dress appropriately – you never know who you might be talking to.
• Use business directories to find out about local companies. Double-check that any contact names given are still current. Send them your CV. Libraries, Connexions centres and Jobcentre Plus offices usually hold reference copies. Some are available online.
• Scan the local newspapers and watch the local news. They’ll cover what’s happening in the business world, for example, company expansions and new developments. Make contact before the jobs are advertised.

Learn from any disappointments – ask employers for feedback. Keep positive and realistic.

Publications

Apply Yourself – job hunting guide