Job Seeking - Your Experience.

kelly_borntoshop

I've been looking now for a month, need something part time and flexible, within 5 miles which is few. Applied for 6 jobs and got 3 interviews. Turned 2 offers down and waiting on a call for a 2nd interview from the 3rd.

I never go through agencies on Jobcentre, I prefer the companies that advertise themselves as they know what they are looking for not necessarily the recruitment agencies. Before I apply I check out the company, sometimes have a run round in the car to take a look. I email them direct then follow up with a paper copy in person a week later.

To get through the door I try to make it easy and interesting for the employer who is looking through hundreds. I use a flashy cover letter (seems to work), offering many years experience and bullet pointing 3 main areas of skill I have relevant to the post. I also include a letter of recommendation from a previous employer, it's about 10 years old now but its glowing.

My CV is a set full 2 pages. The first page features 3 split job areas, then bulleted tasks/responsibilities from my last job. Then a list of programmes and software used in the post.

The second page - 1st half is a summary of the previous 2 jobs with 2-4 bullet points under each and the list of software used.

2nd half is earlier career highlights ie: where i have increased profit, profile or saved money for companies. Past training and certificates, then a little bit of personal. I dont include GCSE's or the like as i'm in my 30's and I think my experience is stronger than any grades I got in school 20yrs ago (which were A's-D's).

Interviews - Wear a simple blazer (whatever colour of the company brand or uniform), trousers, medium heels and simple t-shirt.

All 3 of my interviews have differed to what was originally advertised, whether its the hours, the work or the days needed- hence I have had to turn down 2. But hey ho - we keep going and we'll get there!!

emmah89

im in northern ireland too. been applying left right and centre for jobs!! im currently in temporary work, and ive found that it's been easier to apply for jobs while in work- i've just got onto a subbing post (which is great, though no guarantee of work) and have an interview tomorrow for another job. im willing to travel an hour each way so location hasnt been too much of an issue for me when applying for jobs. as long as its permenant and the pay is ok, im a happy bunny!