How to Increase Your Chances of Finding A Job

Covid-19 has affected us in many different way. One of them is the increase in unemployment. With the government's furlough scheme about to end, things may get worse. One thing to remember is that employers/hirers will be receiveing a lot of applications.

Apply for jobs that Match Your Experience and Skills

It is tempting to apply for jobs that you may not have the skills or experience for. You might even reason that you don’t have anything to lose. I’ll explain in my next point why that’s not strictly true. If you’re a good fit for the role you have a better chance of being reviewed favourably instead of tossed aside.  

The more relevant jobs you apply for the better 

It’s a fact that applying for jobs is a numbers game. Imagine applying for one job. Now imagine applying for 100 jobs. In which scenario are you more likely to be hired? I know first hand how draining it can be to apply for numerous jobs day in and day out. Are you better off using your energy to apply for the most relevant jobs or applying to any related jobs that you come across. Remember you only have a certain amount of time and energy.

You should be careful when trying to stand out 

If you’re a developer, by all means showcase your online portfolio. Try to describe projects and other tangible results you’ve achieved. Using coloured paper or funky fonts and formats could work against you. Look at the sector you’re applying for jobs in. What might work well in a creative industry may not work so well in Tech. If in doubt, talk to your peers and any hirers that you know.   

Use Your Network 

Almost everyone I know has landed a job at some point through a recommendation or referral. Talk to your friends, family and acquaintances. You never know who might be able to put you in touch with the right people. In addition, referrals increase your chances of success. The person referring you is indirectly (sometimes directly) vouching for you. This puts you in a more trusted category from the start.      

Conclusion

Even with all the tips, it will boil down to a combination of factors. The work you put in; how targeted your applications are; and luck. The are many factors you can’t control. Sometimes it just boils down to being in the right place at the right time. Above all, stay positive and don’t take the rejections personally. Get feedback whenever possible and where you can, update your skills, update your approach or anything else that is fed back to you constructively. You’ll continue to improve and become a better prospect for employers. 

If you would like to discuss this further or have questions related to IT Recruitment, contact us at [email protected]. You can also call 020 7566 1199 or visit our site. You can submit a vacancy or upload your CV.