As Europe and the U.S. continue to face economic hardship including worrisome unemployment rates and job cuts, job hunting has become a job in itself - requiring a full time effort.
In addition to unemployment, there are more and more people entering the workforce. In the United States alone, 1.7 million students graduated from university this spring. According to a recent study on employment, at least 4 people are competing for every job role, and in the United Kingdom as many as 20-30 candidates. Therefore, in some countries you really do need to be on the ball to secure a job these days.
Kubo Recruitment have put together some helpful tips to help those searching in this struggling economy:
- Network: They say it's not what you know, but who you know, and in this case it can really help you progress. Speak to your friends and family and use social media outlets to sell yourself. You never know what opportunity might be out there unless you ask.
- Customize: With cover letters, it is not a case of one size fits all. Read the job description thoroughly and show you have understood the job role and how your skills are relevant.
- Speak to someone: Sometimes sending applications online or in the post can feel like a dead end if you get no response, but speaking to an agency about your circumstances and experience is always advised. They can discuss your CV/resume and give you advice on your next steps.
- Options: Don't put all your eggs in one basket! It's always good to be open and see what is out there. You would rather have too many options than none at all.
- Research: When meeting your prospective employer, it is essential to have done your research. Know who you are meeting, read up on the company and know the job specifications like the back of your hand. It is always good to have a few questions prepared too.
- Appearance: Research from Careerbuilder.com shows that one-third of employers say that they make up their mind within 1 minute of meeting a candidate. So, to make the best first impression make sure that you look smart, presentable and confident.
- Attitude: Showing a potential employer that you are enthusiastic and interested in the job is half the battle, but remember there is a thin line between enthusiastic and desperate.
- Accept rejection and learn from it: See every opportunity as a learning process, whether you get the job or not, get as much feedback as you can and apply it to the next opportunity. If you weren't accepted for a job position, follow up with the recruiter and ask why.
- Follow-up: It's always good to call or write and find out if there is any feedback or an update. If you are working with an agency, you will always get feedback as they do their best to get as much information as possible.
- Stay positive: There is an average of 3 million open jobs in the U.S. per month, so if it's not this time it could be the next time! Don't get disheartened if things didn't go as planned. The next job opportunity is right around the corner!
Kubo Recruitment can help job candidates at any stage in the job hunting process - from recent graduates to professionals looking for a career change. Visit our website to upload your profile and browse our current job openings both in Europe and the U.S.
