Looking for work

How to get started

  • Get organised - the sooner the better. It is important to get structure into your job search so draw up a timetable to help plan your activity. This may include searching job sites online, researching potential employers, contacting organisations that can offer help, visiting local agencies and spending time networking and engaging in volunteering opportunities.
  • Did you know that 70 per cent of jobs are never advertised? It is a good idea to approach business directly, perhaps with a cover letter and a CV. This can impress employers and shows you have a real interest in their company. Make a list of companies you could see yourself working for and research their websites. Employers often value keenness and enthusiasm as much as experience and skills.
  • Network, network, network! The importance of this approach cannot be underestimated. Jobs are very often found through who you know. Don’t be afraid to ask friends and ex-colleagues if they know of any opportunities that might be suitable for you.
  • 90 per cent of employers now check Facebook and LinkedIn. Creating a professional profile on LinkedIn is a great networking tool and will allow employers to see your career history and contact you. Facebook has niche job sites too, like Banbury Jobs and Bicester Jobs. Make sure your profile doesn’t contain anything you wouldn’t want a potential employer to see.