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Get your dream job
Paul MacKenzie-Cummins | Monday 29 December 2008 | 08:50
Follow these top tips and you could land yourself your dream job!
Of the UK's 13 million online job seekers in the UK, almost ten per cent rely solely on the internet to search for work, according to the National Online Recruitment Advertising Survey. And given the fact that 65 per cent of people who have applied for a job online have been successful with the average advertised vacancy has a salary of £31,000, it is easy to understand why more and more people are opting to search online for their next position.
But, whether you choose to use the internet or not, you need to ensure that you get the basics right for your job search.
Have a strategy
We're often told "fail to plan, plan to fail." Ensure you have a clear understanding of your career plans and ambitions, especially if you are relying on a recruitment consultant or head-hunter to find you a position.
Customise your CV and covering letter
It may seem tempting to simply cut and paste the same CV and covering letter to several employers, but it could cost you in the long run. Tailor your CV to the job you are applying and only include relevant information that will demonstrate how your experience links to the advertised position.
Search jobs and let recruiters find your CV on Sky Careers!
Become internet savvy
Most online job boards offer jobseekers the opportunity to register their details and CVs onto a database that can be searched by potential employers and search and head-hunting firms. This puts your details in the public domain and increases your visibility in your chosen marketplace. And most job boards will allow you to block your current company from seeing your details, so you don't have to worry if your boss discovers that you are in the job marketplace.
Using the scattergun approach
Most job hunters fall into the trap of applying for jobs on the internet using a blanket approach. But, this alienates prospective employers because applications are de-personalised, untailored and fail to address the requirements that that particular company looks for. Find out everything you can about the organisation from the internet, previous job adverts, networking or simply by telephoning the company themselves and talking informally with a member of the staff.
Blog for Britain
Consider writing a blog. Sites such as Typepad and Blogit come with ready-made technology and enable you to set up your own blog that can be found on most search engines. Blogs give you the opportunity to position yourself as a leading authority for your industry. It also gives potential employers an insight into your character and -- if you keep it updated -- dedication. Blogs can act as a personal PR tool too because you can link your blog to other blogs and this will further enhance your credibility and profile.
Become an expert
One of the most effective ways of getting noticed quickly is by attracting media attention. I am not suggesting that you have to go the extremes of appearing on 60 Minutes or Newsnight but, submitting articles for trade publications or running seminars and presentations to business leaders will position you as a leading authority; the media will know you and so will potential bosses.
Network
Networking is like speed dating -- self-promotion to impress a potential suitor/buyer/employer -- and its power cannot be underestimated. Keep your conversations short to give yourself the opportunity to speak to as many people in the room as possible. The more business cards and contacts you make the better.
Join a committee or professional organisation
Joining your local business link or chamber of commerce will not only extend your network of business contacts, it can also act as a vehicle for you to advertise yourself. For instance, most of these groups produce monthly magazines that feature key news which affects their members; from new hires to contract wins. So, if you have just secured a big media sale, for example, with a prestigious client, then get in touch with the magazine and provide them with the information -- it won't cost you a penny and these publications depend upon members like you to provide them with content. This will give you media coverage and will also raise your profile within your industry.
Phone a friend
Personal recommendation and word of mouth are one of the most effective forms of advertising. After Y2K a new school of marketing thought emerged that questioned the effectiveness of advertising in the modern age - when did you last see Starbuck's advertising? They don't. But everyone has heard of Starbuck's. So, contact ex-colleagues to unearth potential opportunities, and get client testimonials to add to your portfolio.
Be professional
Remain positive and enthusiastic in your work. Investing time and energy into being visible, developing your relationships and networks and ensuring you are respected will go a long way in getting you noticed and achieving your dream job.
Find the job that's right for you. Use Sky Careers extensive database to help you find your dream job!
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