Applying for a job: where to start?
Applying for a job can be a daunting and even stressful process, but this page will guide you through the process and provide you with skills and tips that will increase your chance of getting the job you want.
The most important piece of advice we can give you is to be yourself. There is no point putting on a persona to impress your potential employer because you want a job that allows you to be your unique self! |
What job do I want?
Think about your career goal and what YOU want to do for a living. What interests you? What are you passionate about? What skills do you have?
Good communication skillsCan you convey your ideas clearly in a way that others can understand? Can you persuade and negotiate with people?
Effective leadership and management skillsCan you motivate and inspire others? Are you able to direct others to work toward a common goal?
Teamwork and interpersonal skillsAre you able to work with others to achieve a common goal? Can you overcome social barriers and resolve differences? Are you open-minded and willing to listen to others' views, even if they conflict with your own?
Planning, research and time management skillsAre you able to plan ahead, set targets for yourself and complete them on time? Are you able to carry out extensive research independently? Are you able to investigate information and compile it in a way that is understandable and accessible to others?
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Where do I look?
There are a vast range of places where you can search for jobs, such as newspapers and websites. For a more focused search, use websites such as S1Jobs, My World Of Work, My Job Scotland etc. These sites allow you to refine your search by location, industry, job type and salary. Some sites such as My Job Scotland have an app which you can download to your phone/tablet that will send you alerts when your desired jobs become available.
Visit the Useful Websites page for more information and links. |
What do I have to do?
Once you have found the job you want, you will need to apply for an interview. This is probably the most difficult stage of the application process because you need to convince the employer to give you an interview. Every job application process is different and some may have particular requirements such as filling out an application form online but every employer will ask for your CV.
Filling out an application
What to expect
Although each application form is styled differently, all employers are looking for the same thing - an applicant who is able to outline the skills and valuable experience they have acquired and developed in life, learning and work. It is important that you sell yourself as an asset to their company and support everything your say with examples.
Although each application form is styled differently, all employers are looking for the same thing - an applicant who is able to outline the skills and valuable experience they have acquired and developed in life, learning and work. It is important that you sell yourself as an asset to their company and support everything your say with examples.
These are the categories most application forms will cover:
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Writing a cv
Visit the Writing a CV page for more information on how to write an AMAZING CV.