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Job hunting can be a pain but we're here to help you out.
Thanks to Midlandjobs.ie, we've got a top-notch list of Do's & Don'ts to help you find work right for you.
While it can be disheartening and tiring at times, putting the work into finding work can really pay off.
Midlandjobs.ie have a few handy tips for you to give you the boost you need. We also have some pitfalls that you should try to avoid on your job hunt.
So, take a break with a cup of tea and browse through these Do's and Don'ts.
Do: Dust off that CV.
Take a good look at your CV and pack it with keywords that reflect the work you want to do.
This is kind of like that saying 'Dress for the job you want, not the job you have.'
Your CV is no different; make sure you're altering it and popping in all those keywords to make sure employers know you're a great fit.
For example, use phrases like 'social media' and 'digital marketing' if you want a job in online promotions or marketing.
Don't: Send your CV to everyone.
Don't go crazy with firing out your CV for just anything. Make sure that it's a job suited to you and relevant to the area you want work in.
Also, don't just stream the one CV out to everywhere, change it up and personalise it for each position and company. Find out who's behind the hiring process and address your CV and cover letter directly to them.
Do: 'Fly your kite'
By this, we mean, get yourself out there!
Online platforms for job hunting are all the go now, so make sure you've a good online presence. It's also a good idea to keep updating your profile on sites like LinkedIn.
Employers often scout on those sites so make sure you're there and that your profile is up to date.
Don't: Lay low
Don't lay low, even when in work. Midlandjobs.ie say you should always be aware of what kind of work is out there in your area.
Don't sit around waiting, keep aware of what's available even while in your current role.
Do: Contact an agency
Register with agencies who advertise jobs in your area. Although you do need to get out there and look yourself, sometimes these things can come your way, but only if you're there for them to find you!
Getting job updates from your line of work straight to your email is a super handy feature on most job sites.
Don't: Expect it to land on your lap
This relates to the last 'do', and it's important to know that you can't just expect everything to fall into place.
Finding a job is in itself a job and it won't get done if you're not putting the work in. This goes for everything from making connections and contacts to reviewing your CV over and over, it all helps!
Do: Choose where you apply carefully
This is in line with refraining from firing out the CV haphazardly. Make sure that where you're applying is related to your area.
Even if it's a small step or the first rung on the ladder, try to make sure it'll lead to where you want to be job-wise.
Don't: Be too strict
Again, leading off from the last point, you should try not be too narrow-minded when it comes to job-hunting. It shouldn't be the perfect job or nothing.
Midlandjobs.ie say to get flexible and focus on what you could learn if you were to compromise on some aspect of your dream job.
Eg. Take temp work for a while if you can't find a permanent role.
Do: Keep lists of everything you apply for
With online applications, it can be harder to keep a 'paper trail' of what you've applied for.
Jot down everything in the role description. Sometimes, companies or sites will take down an ad before you hear back, so you'd be best prepared for that interview if you've got your own little 'cheat-sheet'.
It's also no harm to write down the date you applied, just so you can keep tabs on how long it's been and maybe check in.
Don'tL Panic!
Our last 'don't' is to not stress out and panic. Things may never go fully to plan or work out right away.
So, be patient and confident in yourself that you're doing all you can.
You will get there, so don't be too hard on yourself if it's taking longer than expected.
One last tip..
A common misconception is that you should only apply for roles that you tick all the boxes for. While this may be the case for some jobs, it's not always that black-and-white.
If there's a job requirement you don't necessarily have, it's not the end.
But you should make sure that you can prove to that employer that you've something else that'll help you tick that box in some way.
You may have other experience that they see value in!
Best of luck from us and Midlandjobs.ie!