Starting the search to find your ideal job can be daunting, particularly when you have competing priorities such as assignment deadlines, work and family commitments. Here the experts at the University of Bolton share their advice:
Fear not – support is available!
Whilst job hunting can sometimes resemble a rollercoaster ride, if you take the right steps, plan ahead and focus on all of your skills and experiences, you will soon be securing that important interview.
To help get you started here are 6 useful tips:
Plan Ahead
As you enter your final year make sure you check out all the application deadlines early. Make a list of all relevant closing dates and give yourself plenty of time to send off your information.
Uni Tip: Track your applications. Record each job application you make, its stage in the process, and key dates. This is especially crucial when managing multiple applications simultaneously.
Expand Your Job Search
Avoid relying solely on one career option and looking at one specific job website. Try and diversify your search, seeking information from a range of sectors and industries.
Uni Tip: Before beginning your search for a particular role, compile a list of companies that you would like to work for and check out their career pages. This is a great way to see all available vacancies that a company currently has. You can even set up job alerts to keep you notified.
Use Social Media
Social media channels such as LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook act as excellent search tools for job hunting. A simple search for ‘job’ or ‘career’ can lead to finding an employer looking to recruit.
Uni tip: If you have a particular organisation in mind that you would like to work for, giving their social accounts a follow will allow you to keep an eye on new job postings.
Create a Professional Network
There are many ways to network when looking for a new job. You can use online channels such as LinkedIn to establish your online brand, or you can attend industry events and careers fairs. Speaking to other staff from a company might give you further insight into the recruitment process.
Uni tip: By connecting with people on the ‘inside’ you will instantly set yourself apart. Decision makers often interview people who are recommended or by way of a personal referral.
Prepare for the Interview Process
Instead of cramming the night before, start preparing for interviews while you apply for jobs. Research the organisations you have applied for and carefully review the job description to understand why you would be a good fit.
Uni tip: Practice your answers to common interview questions. This can help you feel more comfortable and confident during the actual interview. You can find lists of common interview questions online and practice answering them aloud or with someone you feel comfortable with.
Seek Help
Leverage the help of your university careers team. Schedule a careers appointment to gain insights into your chosen sectors and fine-tune your job-search strategy. Receive support in refining your CV and crafting attention-grabbing cover letters.
Uni tip: Visit the careers pages of your university website and check out all the online resources that are available. This will give you a great starting point.
Let the job hunt adventure begin! Wishing you the best of luck!
For further information about the University of Bolton go to: Undergraduate & Postgraduate Courses | University of Bolton
