The jobs market is getting more competitive and that looks like a trend that will continue long into 2021. To jump-start your job search in January, we’ve put together a few tips on how you can stand out from the crowd.
Get ready… 2021 is only days away
You might think you have plenty of time but in a competitive market, you need to be organised to get ahead of the curve. Make sure you have:
Updated your CV – keep it up-to-date and relevant (see our blog on CV content here: www.allen-york.com/blog/2019/03/cv-or-not-cv)
Drafted a cover letter – make it flexible enough to refine for each role
Done your research – Companies want to know you know about their business.
Reviewed your network – Make sure they know you’re in the market (even confidentially).
One, two, three CV
If you’re applying for several different jobs as ‘one size fits all’ CV might not be the best option. If the job criteria are different for each role then perhaps you should create different CVs to highlight the experience that matches the job spec.
There are lots of CV templates online (have a Google), pick one that is clear, simple and easy to update.
Ensure you’re being selective
If you’re in a technical or specialist field, you’ll know only too well that it’s a little infuriating to receive CVs from people who aren’t qualified and don’t have the right experience for the role. Serious job seeking isn’t a numbers game, it’s about matching your skills and experience with the requirements of the hiring company.
Use your network
If you’ve been in a particular industry for a while, then it’s worth reaching out to contacts to see if anyone is hiring. Asking ex-colleagues, friends or family to refer you to people they know is also a good option. The wider the network, the more chance you have of finding new opportunities.
Use a Recruitment Consultancy
If you’re in a niche role, then working with a consultant might be the best option for you. If your skills are in demand but you want to be quite selective about the roles and companies you’re interested in, then let someone else do the heavy lifting. If you’re looking for a role in Environment, Energy, Sustainability, Health, Safety & Wellbeing, then Allen & York are the recruitment experts in these fields.
Be interview ready
Due to the pandemic, companies are conducting the majority of their interviews online. That doesn’t mean you can just sling on a t-shirt, lay on the sofa and log into Zoom on your phone! Be professional, dress as you would for a face-to-face interview (or at the very least, a smart top half!) and ensure your background is well lit and isn’t too cluttered.
If you’re looking for a new role in Environment, Energy, Sustainability, Health, Safety & Wellbeing, send your updated CV to info@allen-york.comor visit our website (www.allen-york.com) to Register for job alerts.
Good luck!