Tips to help you get back into work
There is lots of advice on how to get a job so have a look online to get specific help and to search for vacancies. You can contact your local job centre to see if you are eligible to register with them as unemployed and receive help with looking for a job.
How to get started in your job search
- Add relevant recruitment sites to your computer 'favourites' and check them regularly.
- With many employers you can register for online job alert so that you know if a suitable vacancy arises.
- Start thinking about the experiences and skills you can offer an employer; use the Lifepilot Higher Skills Map to help.
- Make use of social media – especially professional networking sites such as LinkedIn. Prospective employers might search for you online, so make sure that your online presence is professional. Search the web for advice on writing and making the most of your LinkedIn profile.
- Produce or update your CV but be aware that you should tailor it to individual opportunities wherever possible. There’s lots of advice online about how you should write a CV (e.g. 'The Ultimate Guide to Building a CV').
- You don’t have to wait for the ideal opportunity to arise as some employers are happy to receive speculative letters or emails (you can find advice and examples online).
- It may have been some time since you had an interview, so when you get one, get advice and support. There’s no shortage of information on the web.
Vacancy websites
When you are ready to get back into employment, you’ll find that there are hundreds of recruitment websites – some deal in a wide variety of jobs whereas others specialise in particular career areas. You can search for suitable recruitment agencies and their associated websites through AgencyCentral. Many vacancy sites provide information to help with your job search.
One of the UK’s biggest recruitment sites is the Find a job service from the Jobcentre Plus.
Job Centre Near Me Find your nearest Jobcentre Plus, find a job, find information about Universal Credit, budgeting loan, benefits, free courses and careers advice including; how to write a CV.
Other examples of general sites include:
Social media
Some employers will look up an applicant's social media profiles so it's a good idea to make sure your online presence paints a positive image of yourself.
If you have worked before, having a LinkedIn account can be a good way to showcase your experience, a bit like having an online CV and one of the main benefits is to use your account for networking.