Twenty Seven steps to JOBSEARCH heaven...

1. Proofread your CV

Have your Coach, friends and family read over your CV and give you some feedback on spelling, grammar and content. Someone else may pick up on mistakes that you have overlooked - you do not want anything to stop you from securing your first interview.

2. Make a list of your skills

List all the things you’re good at and enjoy doing and use these lists to help identify the types of jobs and industries you are most interested in and suitable for - don’t limit yourself. This can also be used on your CV as a “key skills” list.

3. Don’t attract the wrong attention

Ensure your CV stands out by highlighting your name in bold and making a clear list of skills and work related information. Having a border of hearts and flowers around your CV may appeal to you but it is unlikely an employer will have the same reaction.

4. Include a cover letter with every CV you send

You can create a general letter and tailor it to each role you apply for, using a covering letter will allow your current situation to be explained and lets your personality shine through. It also gives you additional opportunities to sell yourself as the ideal candidate.

5. Do not include a CV if the employer is asking for an application form

More often than not your application will be completely disregarded as you have not followed instructions correctly when asked.

6. Search online for opportunities

The internet is fast becoming the most popular area for job advertisements. It is important that you structure your job search by adding favourites on your home computer to make your search quicker and more efficient.

7. Customise your CV

Take the time to customise your CV to the role you are applying for by relating your skills to the job description or person specification.

8. Be willing to travel

Consider expanding your search to a wider area e.g. Manchester plus 15 miles, Employers value flexibility, so ensure you are positive if you are asked in interview to travel to other sites.

9. Focus your search

If you are looking for a job in a large field try making your search more specific to limit the results you are given e.g. “Sales” is vague and will bring up a range of results, instead use “Field sales” which will narrow down the results.

10. Use all available job sources

Newspapers, Internet, Notice boards, Window displays, word of mouth are all effective ways of jobsearching use them to your advantage.

11. Register with recruitment agencies

Spending a bit of time registering your details with an agency will expand your search and give you access to roles currently unavailable to you, being proactive will increase your opportunities.

12. Play the numbers game to win!

The more CVs you submit the better your chances are of getting interview requests, the more interviews you attend the more chances you have to be successfully employed. Even if you are not successful, interviews give you the opportunity to practice your skills - accept all interviews you are offered.

13. Behave yourself online

If you enjoy socialising online ensure this information is not available to employers as it may create a negative first Impression. e.g. Social networking sites such as Facebook.

14. Know someone who is planning on leaving? Ask for a referral

You may be able to apply for their position before the company have time to post the job opening.

15. Treat your jobsearch like a full time job

Getting up each morning as though you are going to work will help to keep you productive and get things done. Plan your time effectively by setting targets, making a to-do list and checking your “favourites” on a daily basis. Make finding the right job your full time hobby and spend your time perfecting and tailoring your CV, exploring new methods of jobsearch and researching potential employers.

16. Make sure you are easy to contact

Make sure the details you put on your CV are up to date and correct, create professional answering machines for your home and mobile numbers.

17. Apply for jobs that may not exist

Even if the job you want is not available with a company you have targeted send a speculative letter emphasising the skills and qualities you have to offer, you may be the employee the company is looking for.

18. Apply for jobs that are “beneath” your current level

If you are out of work being employed is the next step up from your current situation. A position that is close to home or a lower salary level than you expected is still an improvement, remember - it is easier to find a job once you are employed.

19. Don’t overlook the public sector

The local government, NHS, schools and councils are all large organisations which require employees; your ideal position might be closer than you think.

20. Create an “elevator speech”

When visiting local employers with your CV and covering letter have a short speech prepared detailing your experience strengths and qualities, it is better to be prepared in case they ask.

21. Use local resources

You can use free local services if you have no access to equipment at home. Visit your local library for newspapers, computer access and notice board information - Utilise all sources available to you.

22. Take some classes

Get useful jobsearch, interview and CV advice by participating in employment-specific group sessions available on a daily basis. It is useful to refresh your skills constantly so that when you are called to interview you are fully prepared.

23. Visit a Jobsfair

Attend every Jobsfair you can and ensure you take your CV and covering letter with you. You may be able to secure a position or a solid lead on the spot, and take a short cut through the jobsearch process.

24. Make sure your certificates are up to date

Ensure all professional certificates and licences are up to date and list these on your CV. Potential employers may be looking for particular professional affiliations.

25. Keep a record

When you send out your CV keep a record of where it was sent, the name of the contact and the closing date. This is not only a useful way of following up employers but also a good point of reference when you are called back to invite you to an interview.

26. Create your own job

Consider starting your own business, think about what you know and your previous experience, if you enjoy doing something why not make that the basis of your career e.g. Taxi Driver.

27. Don’t give up!

It may take a while to find the right job but the perfect job is out there for you and you will find it. Don’t get discouraged and don’t stop trying to find the right position for you.