Job Hunting 101

A NEW YEAR means a new YOU, there’s no better time to review your approach to job hunting and your career progression.

If considering new career opportunities, here’s a checklist of things to do:

1)    Is your cover letter relevant?

2)    Is your resume up-to-date?

3)    Have you checked for grammatical errors and correct formatting?

4)    Do you have relevant certifications and are they up-to-date?

Whether applying direct to the company, or through a recruitment agency, the following tips are important for passing the first stage of the recruitment process. Remember that recruitment agencies must be convinced that you are right for the job before they recommend you to their clients. If you do not leave an impression with the recruiter, the chances of being put forward to the client will be less likely!

1)    Do your research before applying or calling the recruiter.

There’s no use in applying to a job if they are requesting specific certifications or experience. You are not only wasting the recruiter’s time, you are also wasting your own, when you could be applying for positions that are more relevant to you. Before calling the recruiter, make sure you have all your facts right, know what the position involves, and know who the contact person is, READ the job advertisement!

2)    Dress to impress!

For any interview or meeting with the recruiter, remember to dress smart. First impressions count, and if you aren’t presenting yourself professionally, don’t expect to be put forward to the client. The interview with the agency is the same as being interviewed by the client directly, as this information gets passed onto them, so don’t take it lightly!

3)    Keep it professional.

Whether it is an engineering role, or a storesperson, or a pilot, or even an executive management role, keeping it professional and building your networks is essential in keeping your job, and to lead to future career progressions. Both the client and the agencies are your employers, and if there is any reduction in your quality of work, don’t think this goes unnoticed by both parties. If you are a temporary fill, maintaining respect and positive relationships can enhance your likelihood of obtaining a permanent role or be recommended to other prospective clients for greater opportunities.

4)    Don’t be desperate!

Finally, don’t be pushy and desperate to secure a role. You are not the only person applying for your role, and not the only task the client has at hand. Traditionally, only successful candidates will be notified due to high volumes of applicants, it is impossible for the recruiter to contact every person whilst trying to fill multiple roles and contact those who are successful. Recruitment processes can also take from 1-2 weeks to up to 1-2 months depending on the response from the client. So if you do want feedback on your application, wait a week or two before making a friendly phone call!

Remember professionalism is key!