Decide on what type of job you want and find out who to contact and where.

Where to look for jobs:

• Jobcentres
• Internet
• Local and national newspapers
• Employment Agencies
• Business directories
• Local telephone directory
• Shop windows
• Career offices
• Libraries

Decide on what you would like to say, make notes for phone calls or see covering letter section for written application.

Keeping all your paperwork together:

• Job advertisement
• CVs
• Covering letter
• Application forms (photocopy)
• References
• Certificates
• Acceptance and rejection letters

It is a good idea to keep a record of your job search activity, it will allow you to see at a glance what is happening with each application, it is so easy to loose track!

Letters and Forms

What to include:

• Read the job specification and make sure you show you have these skills.
• Be positive and emphasise why you are perfect for the Job.
• Summarise skills and experience.
• Include Name, Address, Contact number and Date.
• Use positive and active words were possible, e.g. achieved, organised, etc.
• Enclose copy of CV.

What to say and how to say it:

• Be clear and emphasise skills.
• Be honest.
• Keep to the point.
• Try to find out the name of the person to send application to.
• If you start your letter Dear Sir/Madam end with Yours faithfully.
• If you start your letter Dear Mrs Smith end with Yours sincerely.

The end product:

• Check address and contact names are correct.
• Be neat and check grammar and spelling.
• Use good quality plain paper and a good quality pen.
• Sign letter and print name under signature.
• Make sure application arrives on time.

On a covering letter describe:

• Who you are.
• Which job you are applying for.
• Why you would like the position and why you are attracted to the organisation.
• How you feel that your qualifications and experience make you a suitable candidate.
• What you hope will happen next, e.g. a polite, positive closing statement.

On a CV make sure you check: Appearance: Does it look good before you even read it?
Accuracy: Has it been checked for spelling/grammatical errors?
Length: Is it a reasonable length?
Format: Does the style reveal your full potential?
Appropriateness: Is the content right for this particular job?
Focus: Is it easy to see what type of work you would be good at?
Clarity: Is the content clear and to the point?
Honesty: Is the content true and accurate?

• Click here to view our example covering letter

• click here to view our example CV 1
• click here to view our example CV 2

Preparation is the key!
Preparation:

• Read the job specifications and make sure you know what the job entails.
• Take a copy of your CV.
• Take your qualifications and certificates with you.
• Dress smartly.
• Plan your journey, possibly do a trial run.

At the Interview:

• Arrive on time (about 10 minutes early).
• Enter the room confidently.
• Be polite and friendly.
• Ask questions and look interested.
• Answer questions as fully as possible.
• Speak clearly.

Quick Tips:

• Research the organisation, its products and services.
• Practise interviews with friends or family.
• Take your job application folder to the interview.
• Re-read your letter of application and the details of the job advertisement.
• First impressions count.

Possible Questions

Why do you want to work here?

• Good reputation of the firm
• Any positive information you have on the firm, such as training record etc
• Chance to work in an environment which will allow you to do what you enjoy

What makes you a good team player?

• Describe the skills required and emphasise when you have shown these previously
• Good communication
• Flexibility
• Adaptability

What do you feel are your weaknesses?

• Start by describing parts of your last job/training that you found difficult and how you overcome them
• Be honest and put a positive light on any weaknesses

Do you have any questions?

Prepare for this and ask at least one question as this shows enthusiasm:

• Why is the position vacant?
• What training will I be given?
• What will my first job be?
• Will there be opportunities for promotion?

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