Starting Your Job Search

​Advancements in the digital world have impacted the world of recruitment vastly. Recruiters have multiple ways to source new talent who are both active and passive in their job search, whilst candidates can find every job available with just a few clicks of a button. Whilst on paper (or more likely computer these days), with all the tools we now have available to us, it should make the search for a new job easier. However, with competition fierce for both jobs and candidates, the task of starting a job search can be extremely challenging.

At Investigo, our aim is to make the process of matching the right candidate with their perfect role as simple as possible. We have put together these easy to follow steps, which will help you start your search, and get you into that new role sooner.

• Know what you want: It may sound simple, but before you start your search it is worth spending a bit of time thinking about what you are looking for from your next role. Figuring out the direction you want to go in; level of seniority, size of company, location, culture, environment…can really help you narrow down the search field. It is worth writing this down to help ground these thoughts and give you a clear vision.

• Do your research: Spend the time finding out where the type of role you are looking for is likely to be advertised. For most industries these days, there will be specialist boards and publications that potential hirers and search agencies in your field will use to source quality candidates and advertise vacancies. Finding these will save you time. It will also give you visibility over the agencies that specialise in your area – if there is one particular that has a number of relevant jobs advertised then contact them directly to organise a meeting.

• Register for job alerts: Once you have identified these agencies and sites, setting up an effective job alert is a good way to keep your finger on the pulse. The websites of most search agencies and job boards will have the option to tailor your search and set up an alert that can inform you when any new opportunities suiting your criteria are posted. It is best to be as thorough as possible in your search criteria and always utilise the ‘advanced’ option. Getting these alerts to your phone or email twice a day will ensure that you don’t miss out on applying for the perfect role and save you having to trawl the sites daily. Using Indeed can also save you time as it collates jobs posted on a number of sites across the Internet, meaning you can save time by not having to set up your search multiple times. Not all jobs feature on here though, so don’t rely on just that site.

• Find the right recruiter for you: With a number of recruitment agencies to choose from, you should be able to find one who not only works within your field, but one who also goes the extra mile assisting with your job search. A good recruiter will do more than just try to fill a role, they will want to build a relationship with you and will ensure they present available positions that match what you are looking for. They will also ensure you are well prepped at interview stage on both the role and the company. It is recommended that you register with a few great agencies, rather than multiple mediocre ones, so choose wisely.

• Make sure your CV is relevant to the role:  While you may be applying for similar jobs, each job advert will most likely describe the position differently, or list different key skills and requirements. Although it is more time consuming, tailoring your CV so that it aligns with each advert can make your application seem more professional, while showing the hiring manager that you are the perfect fit for the role. Highlighting keywords and aligning the key skills with those described on your CV (if, of course you possess them) are just a few ways to make your CV stand out from the rest.

• Preparation is key: Ok, so you have landed an interview. Your recruiter will be able to give some great tips on what the interviewers will be looking for and some solid information on the business, as well as point you in the right direction in terms of research. It will benefit you to know what type of interview will be conducted, how many interviewers will be in the room, and the kind of questions that will be asked. It is also vital that you know your audience - research the company; its history, performance; key service offering etc. You should spend a minimum of two hours researching for a first interview. You will be more relaxed when it comes to crunch time, and having a few questions ready to ask the interviewers at the conclusion of the interview will show how interested you are in the role. A dry run is also never a bad idea! Get a friend or family member to sit opposite and practice those questions you discussed with your recruiter.

• Stay positive: Not every role is for everybody. It is quite possible you will have to apply for more than one role and go through more than one interview process before you find the right fit and that offer comes through. Your recruiter will be able to give you detailed feedback after each interview process so you are able to further hone your interview style.

All that’s left to say after following these steps is good luck and happy hunting. If you would like any additional assistance in your job search, one of our expert consultants will be able to help. Please contact Investigo on 0203 808 3111.