10 Ways to Improve Your Job Prospects

The combination of Brexit and a global pandemic has caused a lot of change to the job market over the last couple of years. This has created an unusual situation where unemployment has just reached a 3-year high, but there is also a record number of job vacancies available. Therefore, if you are currently struggling to find work at the moment there’s no need to panic. There are lots of opportunities out there if you know how to find them. That’s why we’ve put together these 10 top tips to improve your chances of finding a great job in the current climate.

01. Know where to look

In today’s ever-changing environment it’s essential to know which industries have the most vacancies to improve your chances of getting employed. The top 10 sectors with the most jobs currently available are HGV drivers, nurses, programmers and software development professionals, care workers and home carers, primary and nursery teachers, chefs, sales and retail assistants, cleaners and domestic workers, maintenance fitters, and carpenters and joiners. Do you see yourself excelling in any of these roles? If so, now’s your time to give it a shot.

02. Don’t settle

The vast availability of jobs currently on the market means that you don’t necessarily need to settle for the first offer you get. Be sure to make potential employers aware that you have other options to ensure you get the best deal.

03. Demand more

If you are currently employed in an understaffed sector, now might be the perfect opportunity to ask for a pay rise. Employers may be willing to pay more to prevent you from leaving if they cannot fill your place. For example, the average wage in hospitality and catering has risen by 18%, according to the recruitment website, Reed.

04. Learn a new skill

Developing your skillset is essential to keep up with how much the job market changes. So, think about your ideal job and the skills you need to get there. There are many courses and qualifications available online for free or at discounted prices due to the current climate. Furthermore, many companies will be willing to give you training once you get there if you show passion and the desire to succeed at the job.

05. Get tech-savvy

In our modern age, being tech-savvy will put you way ahead of other job applicants. So, if you’ve been avoiding ‘all-things-techy’ then now’s the time to leave the dark ages. A great place to start is by developing your computer skills using free online courses for applications. Additionally, it’s important to use the internet to increase your exposure to job opportunities. For example, recruitment websites are an excellent way to find out about different vacancies on offer.

06. Play up to your strengths

The economic instability over the last couple of years has mean that many people are moving to new sectors and positions. If you’re currently looking for a job in a different field, then think about what made you good at your last job and how these skills could be transferable. It’s important to have specific examples and hard evidence to prove to employers that you’re the best for the job.

07. Read and research

If you’ve got your heart set on a particular position, then it’s important to learn as much as you can about that role and sector. This may include reading news articles and books about the industry to make sure that you come off as knowledgeable and engaged in interviews. Additionally, be sure to reach out to anybody you know currently working in the position for any ‘insider information’.

08. Volunteer

If you’re looking for a new job, but lack experience, then volunteering is a great way to develop skills to put onto your CV, even if it is only something small, such as offering a free shopping service to the local elderly. Since Covid, the importance of volunteers and helping those in need has become more apparent than ever. Therefore, employers will appreciate your ability to demonstrate resourcefulness and drive at a time when the country needs it most.

09. Take up a new hobby

Over the course of the pandemic, you may have found a new passion, whether it be blogging or joining a new sports team. These are great ways to show your skill set to employers and make yourself stand out from other applicants. Even if the activity isn’t industry-specific, the skills that you develop from it can still be relevant, such as communication or teamwork. Also, it’s important to remember that people buy people, not products, so it helps to show your personality to employers to prove that you’re somebody they want to work with.

10. Update your CV

The secret to getting the job you want is a great CV. If you have been employed for a long time it may have been a while since you last updated it. Therefore, take some time to think about all your achievements and what skills they evidence. Also, there are lots of great tips online about how to improve and restructure your CV so that it makes an impression.

There's no need to panic

Therefore, if you’re currently unemployed then there’s no need to panic. Hopefully, these tips to improve your job prospects will help you obtain your ideal position. However, here at Consolidation Express, we understand sometimes you need a little extra help keeping up with payments.

Get in contact and we’ll see if your eligible for a consolidation loan. This could help you consolidate your debts into one affordable, monthly payment and stop creditors chasing you. Whatever your circumstances our friendly advisors are here to help, so reach out to us today.