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How to get a job that you actually want

Visitor and staff at Welcome desk at Central Bedfordshire College (CBC).
Job hunting can be a long and tiresome process.  Luckily there are tips you can bear in mind on how to get a job that you want.
1. FIRST AND FOREMOST: DO. YOUR. RESEARCH.

A wise man once said, “by failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” The strongest of candidates present themselves well on paper and in interview. So, analyse the job description, pick out what they’re looking for and then tailor your CV to that specific role – reminder: one CV does not fit all!

For more on CVs, click here

2. IF YOU WANT TO IMPRESS DURING THE INTERVIEW PROCESS, SHOW THAT YOU KNOW THE COMPANY LIKE THE BACK OF YOUR HAND

Study the company, familiarise yourself with their website, social media channels, and newsletters. Pay particular attention to their mission or value statement as well as any press releases and company achievements. Give yourself enough time to prepare and practise for your interview, mock-up answers to potential questions, remembering to include the knowledge that you have of the company.

3. YOU MAY FIND IT BENEFICIAL TO CONDUCT SOME INFORMATIONAL INTERVIEWS

Carrying out sit-downs with people in your circle or career field who can offer guidance based on their own experiences in your target industry is a great way to collect useful information that can help you secure your dream role. You could also get in touch with our college Careers team – they can provide impartial advice and guidance on job searching, CV writing, interview preparation and more.

4. WORK ON YOUR COVER LETTER WRITING SKILLS

In some cases, the job you’re applying for may require a cover letter. A recent survey discovered that a great cover letter increases your chances of being invited for interview by 83%. Think of your cover letter as your first impression. Spend time learning how to write a cover letter that will highlight your best attributes, keeping in mind that the main goal is to separate yourself from the competition.

5. THINK ABOUT YOUR ONLINE PRESENCE

Another thing to note is that we are living in the digital age. Employers can get information at a touch of a button. So, this is your sign to go through your social media accounts, removing any posts that may raise an eyebrow, and refresh your professional profiles such as LinkedIn.

Life hack: if you’re still on the hunt for your dream position, implement industry terms and keywords into your LinkedIn profile – this will allow employers to find you!

Happy job hunting!