There are lots of ways to look for a new job. We describe some of them here. Choose the ones that suit you best.
Job boards are websites that list job vacancies. Some boards advertise a broad range of jobs. Some only advertise jobs in a specific industry or region. Most of these websites allow you to apply online, using a digital version of your CV. You can also include a digital covering letter to support your application.
Many job boards also let you sign up for email alerts that tell you when an organisation publishes a new job vacancy. When you sign up for an alert, you may be able to state what you're looking for, such as:
MK Jobs - Jobs & Training Opportunities Exclusive to the Milton Keynes Region
Job Shows are events where recruiters come to meet potential employees.
A great opportunity:
Highlights from the MK Job Show >
Newspapers advertise local and national jobs.
These can be picked up for free at local supermarkets, libraries, shopping centres and train stations.
Networking sites like LinkedIn let you search for advertised job vacancies. You can apply through your LinkedIn profile or upload your CV.
Recruitment consultants often use networking sites to find suitable people. Keep your profile updated and make it as appealing as possible to recruiters.
Local council online or e-bulletins often include information about companies that are hiring in the area. You can use this information to:
The hidden job market is the jobs that are not advertised. In some industries, this can be as high as 70% to 85% of all vacancies. Our networking page has advice on how to find jobs like this.
You can also use social media to look for hidden work. For example, do you know someone in an online community able to direct you towards a job opportunity not yet advertised?
Most job centres have computers that you can use to make job searching easier. You can also search online through the government's job vacancy service. Job centre advisers can give you information about:
Staff will also take into account extra needs you might have like childcare support or disability support.
The staff at the National Careers Service offer careers advice and guidance. You can contact them by phone or webchat. You can also make an appointment to see an adviser face to face.
Advisers have information about which employers are recruiting in your area. They can also tell you about job vacancies, training schemes and apprenticeships.
Approaching employers in person can be very effective. You can contact them by email, phone or visit in person. This gives you the opportunity to make a good impression.
If you are going to visit, first make an appointment to speak with the most appropriate person. This may be a supervisor, manager or human resources (HR) officer.
Ask the person about potential job opportunities and training schemes. They may also ask you questions, so have some answers prepared and be ready to hand in your CV if they ask for one.
You may find that the person you need to speak to is not available or they may even reject your approach. This can be difficult to handle but try not to take it personally, as it may be that they’re simply too busy to see you at that time. You can always try again later.
You can find advertised jobs in industry journals or trade magazines for your area of work. With these publications you'll often find:
Industry publications are not restricted to magazines and journals. Many organisations have industry-specific websites. You can use these to find and apply for vacancies.