How To Get Yourself Job Search Ready
1. Define Your Career Goals
Assess your current career trajectory—consider where you are now, the opportunities available to you in this space, and whether they align with your long-term aspirations. Ensure that the path you’re on leads to the future career you desire.
Research the companies you would want to work for and the skills they require for the jobs you are interested in.
2. Update Your CV & Have Supporting Information Ready
Tailor your CV to highlight relevant experience and detail your achievements, but make sure that they are relevant to the job that you are applying for.
Many online applications require that you submit additional information on why you are interested in the job (i.e. a cover letter by a different name).
3. Optimise Your LinkedIn & Online Presence
Ensure that your LinkedIn profile is updated and that it matches with your CV. Consider it to be a slimmed down CV - it needs to reference your achievements and impact in the role, not just list generic information about your company, or worse, no details.
Be aware that it is increasingly common for hiring managers to check your wider digital footprint; consider removing any content that could be perceived as unprofessional or inappropriate.
4. Build A Relationship With A Trusted Recruiter - like Bradwell Chase!
Find a specialist recruiter for your industry and job focus, as they will have insights and tips to help you prepare for your job search.
Often, recruiters will have access to opportunities that are not being advertised, and so you will learn about confidential jobs.
Recruiters offer support and advice throughout the job search process, from tailoring a CV to interview preparation and salary negotiation.
5. Build & Showcase Your Skills
If you’ve identified a skills gap for the positions you are applying for, learn new or improve your skills by using online courses to learn and develop the expertise required.
Work on side projects, freelance, or volunteer work to gain relevant experience to the job you want to apply for.
6. Get Current on Industry Themes
Make sure you are up to date with industry changes and advancements in your field so that you can talk informatively about them (expect to get asked about hot topics during interviews).
Spend time understanding the position of the companies that you are interested in, their industry news, and their opinions in the field.
7. Prepare for Interviews
Practice answering common interview questions using the STAR method.
Research and prepare questions to ask about the company and role beforehand.
8. Apply Smartly & Stay Organised
Be deliberate about the applications you make and have a genuine interest in the role and company.
Keep track of applications for follow-ups and feedback.
Follow up on interviews, feedback, and rejected applications with thank-you emails.