If finding a new job is likely to be one of your New Year’s resolutions, or you’re already searching then read on as this article may be the difference between a confidence sapping, throw-the-laptop-out-the-window job hunt and quickly finding your dream job.
Job hunting takes time and energy and it can be frustrating if you don’t feel you are getting the opportunities you deserve. A good recruitment consultant will help you identify potential weaknesses that are stopping you achieving your potential and highlight strengths that will help propel you into your next move. Below are areas that you and they may need to focus on:
1. Get your CV right – fashion and retail is a very popular career and employers receive dozens, even hundreds of CVs for most opportunities. If your CV is to be considered make sure it is tailored to the specific opportunity/ies you are applying for as well as being clear, concise and professional. Read our "CV Hints” guide but also ask your recruitment consultant to critique it.
2. Tailor your covering letter – the job description will highlight the skills and experience the employer is looking for. Show how well you fit the description in your covering letter. Again a good recruiter will review your application letter and share ideas for possible improvements based on the hundreds/ thousands they’ve read before.
3. Clean up your social media profile – if an employer is thinking of shortlisting you then they will often check out your social media profile and even if they don’t do it at this stage of the process, they will if you get through the first round. As a rule of thumb, if you wouldn’t want your Grandmother to see it or read it, then either delete it or lock down your profile.
4. Get interview ready – the time to realise your interview technique is rusty is not during an interview for your dream job. A good recruitment consultant will coach you before the interview, giving you the best chance of landing the role that you really want. Don’t take rejection personally – remember at least 6 people will usually be interviewed for each role.
5. Be open to suggestions – a good consultant will match you to opportunities. They will take into account your personality and priorities and match them with companies which are a cultural fit and roles that will help you achieve your objectives. You can say "no” at any stage during the recruitment process so approach opportunities with an open mind.
6. Prepare properly – if your consultant has a good relationship with the client the will often be able to tell you who will be conducting the interview, the interviewer’s job title and responsibilities, the format of the interview, the general process, how many candidates are involved etc. This will help your preparation and give you confidence. If you are unsure how best to prepare, your consultant can also suggest the sorts of questions you should consider and research you should do in advance of the interview.
7. Use your consultant for follow up – most employers will want your perspective about how the interview went and will also tell the consultant how you came across. Use your recruitment consultant to address any issues that arose during the interview and get the interviewer(s)’s feedback on how you performed.
Good luck securing your next step on the ladder and if you want help maximising your chances of landing a dream job then give us a call.
