01 May 2023
Here are a few pointers for those of you about to enter the world of employment, and needing some basic idea of how it all works. One of the first things that you should learn is that there is no magic formula to it, but there are some tips that can help you to have more success.
Think about the type of role you really want: Should it be short term / part time / permanent / an apprenticeship? Do you want a role which challenges you and helps you to develop, or one which you could do with your eyes closed? Are you after work in a specific sector of the employment market, or would you consider any? What are the important features of your ideal employer?
These questions can help you to decide what you are after for the time being, and that is all you have to do in order to get started. The decisions you make now won't necessarily shape your entire career, though they will likely shape the next few years of your life. Take the time to think it all through and to carefully choose your direction of travel.
If you’ve still not decided which career path is the one for you, then do some research – talk to friends / family about the work they do, and see if there’s anything that sounds like something you would enjoy. Trawl the Jobs Boards for roles in your area to see what’s on offer – there will (probably) be hundreds!
Begin to assemble your CV. Your CV should be written in a way which places you as an ideal candidate for the type of role you are looking for, in the sector or profession you want to work in. There are many ways to do this and you should read "CV Frequently Asked Questions” in order to get a better idea of how to put a successful CV together.
Draft your cover letter – now this should just be a draft, and it should change depending on which employers it’s going to. You should read “Writing a Good Cover Letter” to gain a better understanding of what is required.
Make sure the way it’s written reflects your interest in working in a specific type of role / for a specific employer / in your chosen profession. This is important, as a cover letter should be aimed at the specific job you are applying for in order to maximise your ability to sell yourself and your skills in relation to that job.
If you know of some local employers you’d love to work for, send your CV and cover letter to their HR Team / Managers letting them know you’d be a great addition to their team. The worst that can happen is that you don’t get a reply, but who knows, you may end up with an interview, a job or a career out of it.
And finally, start making applications for the jobs you see advertised. Most recruiters specify how to apply and it really is (relatively) easy!
