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Top 10 tips for finding jobs in 2021

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In the previous blog, 'how do I make the right career choice in 2021', we've discussed the methods of identifying the correct career for yourself in these rather, well, trying times. We've determined that reflecting, analysing and never giving up on your job search are the three do's when looking for a new job. This time around, we're going to be listing some useful tips that will help you find and land that dream job of yours.

1. Search for jobs through an online job platform

With the coronavirus pandemic, it's safe to say that we've all grown a bit more accustomed to doing everything remotely, which, of course, includes job hunting as well. The job market is swiftly changing as well towards a more remote work-friendly approach. If anything, 2020 has taught everyone of the value of the digital age.

Various job sites such as the well-established Indeed and DirectApply offer hundreds of thousands of job openings.

For more industry-specific job sites, you can look at platforms such as Senploy for jobs working in the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities sector, currently on the rise; or Creative Access for various creative and publishing roles.

2. Register with job agencies

Not all people are aware of the potential of job agencies. They are often dismissed, but they can be very helpful for a multitude of reasons. Briefly, a job agency is a liaison between you and your potential employers. There are many specialised agencies as well, such as Medical Solutions and TEKsystems, so aim for the one that fits you best.

Remember, job agencies and hiring managers do the job searching for you and for free, so you can always look into them while also actively applying on your own elsewhere!

3. Contact industry leaders within the sector

Countless blogs have interviewed various industry representatives and are available for you to read online. Influential people in the industry might seem like far-off personas, unwilling to bother with the average person, but one thing to keep in mind is that they're actually just human too. Slightly busier humans, but not even that always applies. For example, a friend of mine was selling simple jewellery in the past and she took it upon herself to contact a popular musician over social media. The artist liked her work and promoted her business on their account, helping her reach so many more people.

This connects to a later point, but it never hurts to reach out. Who knows, you might learn something and grow your network in the process.

4. Improve your CV with content specific to the role

It's always important to make your CV stand out. Employers are more likely to accept your application if your CV is readable, well-formatted and clearly addresses the role-specific skills you posses.

Many skills are transferrable. A simple customer service job improves your skills in teamwork, organisation and much more. It's important never to undersell yourself in your CV. Any work experience you might have is probably far more useful than you might think.

It might be worth contacting a career coach to look over your CV. Look up the ones in your general area, there are sure to be some ready to help you out, and even if not, you can always ask your friends for help giving feedback on your CV. If nothing else, they can help you with grammar.

Hiring managers always look for the right fit for the job. They can scour sites like LinkedIn and Indeed and, if they see and like your CV, they might contact you. So always keep a tidy copy of your CV available for employers to be able to come across.

5. Prepare for interviews

Employers want to see your interest in the role you're applying for. If your CV has been accepted, the next step is to display the skills and knowledge in an interview. Research the company, jot down potential questions you might ask to better display your interest.

I have heard stories of people asking brilliant questions during interviews with their inquisitiveness being the determining factor in them landing the jobs. This is especially true at entry level roles where differences in experience don't play as major a role.

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6. Learn new skills

With the growth of remote working and webinars over the last year, acquiring new skills has never been easier. If you feel your CV might be lacking or you just don't feel confident enough to proceed with a job application yet, it is worth looking at online courses that will help you gain relevant and transferrable skills.

Many such opportunities are listed on job platforms, mostly specialised ones like Creative Access, and many are free of charge. Learning days, webinars and even youtube videos. Employers will love to see that you've taken the time to acquire and research relevant skills as part of your application.

7. Strengthen existing skills

While learning new skills is important, it mustn't come at the expense of your current skills. It is just as important to develop yourself in the areas you already know as it is to develop yourself more broadly. A jack of all trades is a master of none and that won't help set you apart from the competition. What will truly set you apart is your ability to show where you shine and make the most of it, while still keeping your mind open towards new possibilities.

8. Network and use social media

We've briefly touched upon this, but networking is extremely important for job hunting. Social media can be a powerful tool when used properly. On Twitter, you can follow relevant job listing profiles or hashtags to stay on top of the game. If you network with people, you can help each other out and send new job opportunities to one another.

Linkedin is amazing in this regard. It connects you directly with the employers and doubles as an online job platform as well. Whether you're looking for work experience or full-time employment, social media is hard work, but it pays off to put yourself out there.

9. Go freelance

Going freelance can be scary. It is an area bereft of the same level of monetary security provided by full-time employment. However, in this day and age, many specialists are predicting that freelancing will be the way to go forward. Upwork, Fiverr, PeoplePerHour and many more are always brimming with companies looking for prospective freelancers.

Keep in mind that, much as it is with job platforms, different freelance platforms are utilised by different companies or even disregarded by companies. It is important to find the platform that will allow you to find the right job for yourself. As a freelancer, it's also even more important to network effectively. Do not shy away from advertising yourself and building a website. Nowadays, it's easier and cheaper than ever, costing only around £15 monthly to maintain a personalised website on an accessible platform like Squarespace or Wix.

10. Focus your efforts and be persistent

The job market has changed. Looking for a job in 2021 is different from looking for a job in 2019 and we can't do much about that save for adapt. Specific industries thrive in these times, be it out of necessity, such as the medical industry, or out of human desire to connect and help each other, such as the care and special educations industries, advertised by Senploy. IT, communications and remote work options are on the rise, so focus your efforts.

It might take time, but be persevering and you will land that job. Keep growing and learning, remember to always show it clearly to employers and don't lose confidence in yourself. That is the most important tip to keep close to your heart.

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