Tips for effective job search UK

19th Jun 2021

How can you optimise your job search and ensure that you are getting the latest and most up-to-date listings?

Take advantage of email alert

Performing searches and making sure that you are checking sites regularly for the latest listing can be time-consuming. If there are a number of sites that you want to check, then let technology do the hard work for you. For example Qualified Finder, Jobs Online UK is a job site that will allow you to create up job alerts for specific jobs or search terms that you want results for. Set up these alerts for your chosen job titles and get daily emails that contain the most recent listings. This will cut down your search time dramatically and bring the latest jobs directly to you.

Review your search terms

A slight difference in job search keywords can yield very different results. Make sure you are capturing the best job listing with the search terms that you are using. For example, typing in ‘marketing associate’ will bring very different results to typing in ‘SEO expert’. Depending on the job you are seeking make sure you searched accurately reflect the position you are looking for. If you determine that several terms supply the jobs that you are looking for then set up alerts for each term to make sure you don’t miss any opportunities.

Check local sites

Many businesses will advertise locally as well as on the larger national job boards. For companies that are hiring, targeting local talent can be a plus, so make sure to check smaller, more local classified and listing sites. The same is true for local training colleges and universities, often companies will use their sites to locate recently qualified talent. Make your job search more effective by checking these sites regularly for new openings.

Make use of business websites

Companies that have a strong internet presence will often use their own job page to advertise their job opportunities. If there are some in your local area that you think may be hiring, visit their website and look for their ‘career’ section. The advantage of this is that any application you submit will go directly to the hiring manager or HR department, which can give you an advantage over applications collected via large job sites.

Upload your CV

Experienced recruiters and hiring managers often look for talent among those candidates that are passive, or not actively seeking work. This means scouring and searching through CV’s that have been uploaded and sorted into relevant work titles. Make sure your CV is visible by uploading and tagging it with the search terms or job titles that you are seeking. It may land in the hands of a recruiter with little effort on your part. For example, you can post your CV on Qualified Finder, Jobs Online UK.

Use a professional recruitment service

For help targeting your dream job consider using a professional recruitment service. These businesses can help you to make your job search effective by providing guidance and advice. They can help to position your skills and talents in the best way to appeal to potential employers. As an added advantage they have usually formed business relationships with companies and recruiters, so if you fit the job, they can recommend you directly.

Word of mouth

Don’t overlook one of the most powerful and effective job search methods you have at your disposal, and that is, ‘word of mouth’. There is nothing more powerful than a referral from a friend, other employees or a business associate that is connected to the company you want to work for. Check with friends, family, school buddies, and colleagues to see if anyone has a friend or a friend of a friend that would be happy to drop your name in the right ear.

Remember to make sure your CV is current and includes all of your latest achievements and experience. Keeping it up-to-date will help you to make your job search as effective as possible, and answer questions in advance that the recruiter may have. Always respond with a thoughtful cover letter that speaks directly to why you want the jobs, and don’t repeat information that is already detailed on your CV.