Remember, it’s a numbers game
If you’re currently looking for a new job, you’re most certainly not alone.
Perhaps you’re on the hunt for more money in the cost of living crisis? Or maybe you want more perks, or are after a better work-life balance?
We truly are in the midst of ‘job hunting season’ as people are keen to bag a new role before Christmas, in a new employment phenomenon known as ‘job cuffing’- which echoes the autumnal dating trend of a similar nature.
In fact, October is predicted to be one of the busiest months for job hunters, as candidates hope to secure a new job before the pre-Christmas slump in recruitment.
This is backed-up by the team at Glassdoor, who says they’ve already seen a rise in job searches.
Jill Cotton, a career trends expert at Glassdoor, explains: ‘”Job cuffing” is the new work trend for autumn. This October, the job market will be on fire as job hunters across the UK look to “job cuff” for the winter and settle down into a new role before the weather turns cold.
‘Glassdoor expects to see a huge spike in job searching activity over the next four weeks. And job hunting will drop dramatically in November and won’t pick up again until well into the New Year.’
However, job hunting can feel incredibly overwhelming – especially with the clock ticking down until November.
So how do you ensure you make the most of the October recruitment boom and put yourself out there in the best way?
Fear not, experts are on hand to share some handy job-hunting advice below.
Remember, it’s a numbers game
Pavel Bahu, the global HR Director of Trevolution Group, says it’s important to cast your net wide when it comes to applications.
He explains: ‘You have to apply for as many positions and as many jobs as you can, in order to get to the interview.
‘Out of the applications you send, you normally get 10%-20% interviews, and out of those interviews only 10%-20% would turn into the actual job offers.’
So don’t hold back on applications.
Tailor your CV with relevant keywords
Pavel also sheds light on a little industry secret.
‘It is also important to note that most of the big companies do not read your CVs – there is a machine-learning tool that analyses keywords from your CV,’ he says.
‘The tool prioritises people who have skills and experience that translates into these keywords that the company needs.
‘So the main thing here is to actually know where you are applying, read the job description, and have your CV tailored to the job description, so you overcome this machine-learning barrier.’
Allow recruiters and hiring managers to find you
Believe it or not, you don’t have to do all the hard work yourself, explains Jane Spearman, the divisional manager at Gleeson Recruitment Group.
She says: ‘On LinkedIn, there’s the option to let employers and recruiters know you’re open to work without making it public.
‘You’ll find the relevant setting under “career interests” in your dashboard.’
Make sure this setting is on to show you’re actively searching – and let recruiters and companies come to you.
Turn to your network
Networking is a great way to uncover new and exciting opportunities, so tap into your network of contacts.
Jane says: ‘Start attending industry events and talk to other professionals whose work you admire, and strike up conversation.
‘Share your thoughts and insights on LinkedIn, and don’t be afraid to turn to others for career advice. If you see someone in a position you aspire to – why not ask them how they did it?’
Tailor your CV and cover letter to each and every job application
Yes, it sounds like a pain, but it will save you time in the long-run – as companies are likely to dismiss a generic CV.
Jane says: ‘Take a good look at the job description, and ensure your CV reflects the relevant experience you have for each point.
‘This is especially important as your application may well go through an Application Tracking System initially – a computer programme that will be looking for relevant words and phrases.’
Don’t limit yourself to online applications
A recruitment company might be able to share lesser-known roles with you – many of which aren’t even advertised to the general public.
Also, get in touch with companies directly to ask about any upcoming vacancies.
Jane says: ‘If you spot a company you’re especially interested in, get on their radar.
‘Actively inquire whether any positions are available, and express your interest and admiration for the work they do. ‘
Set up daily alerts
Sign up to job boards to ensure you’re one of the first to be notified when a new job comes out – so you can get in there first.
‘Just remember to think broadly with your key words,’ explains Jane, ‘as sometimes companies will use slightly different job titles for the same role – that way, you won’t miss out.’
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