How to search for jobs
Before you begin...
Are you ready to find a job? Tick these off our handy checklist first!
- Have you put together a CV? - If not, check out our article on how to write a CV, for a solid template and advice for how to build the best CV you possibly can.
- Have you explored career ideas? - You can make this fun, using mood boards, mind maps or other planning tools. Map out some possible routes, industries, ideas and options. Websites such as ‘My World of Work’ have useful tools to help you here. Reading through job descriptions can also be a really useful way to work out the kinds of jobs you’re interested in and things you’d love to do.
Where should I search for jobs?
You could keep it local and visit a recruitment agency or temping agency in your town or city. However, these days, most people tend to look online. So, where should you go?
Job boards
Online ‘job boards’ (websites that post up-to-date listings for job vacancies) like Indeed, Monster, Total Jobs and Reed.
These will ask you to decide the kind of role you’re looking for:
- Full time or part-time?
- Permanent or temporary?
- The sector you’d like to work in
Most of these ‘job board’ websites ask you to upload a CV. So if you haven’t already, take a look at our guide on how to write a CV.
Searching by company
Make a list of companies you’d like to work for (not sure how to choose? See What to look for). You can then visit these companies’ websites and see if any vacancies are available.
Social media
Set up a LinkedIn profile. LinkedIn is a professional social networking site where many companies advertise jobs. Got to Social media for work to learn more.
You can then use the list of companies you created to start following them. You can also search for jobs within the site.
Get application smart
Got a big job application coming up? Hear from recent commercial banking apprentice Amy as she talks you through her top tips to getting it right.
What should I look for?
Sussing out the jobs market can feel like a job in itself, but don’t worry; here are our top tips to make sure you find the right place for you:
- Word of mouth - If you know someone who has worked somewhere, get the lowdown before you apply. Would they recommend it, and what do they like about it?
- Top places to work - Online ranking systems such as Glassdoor and Great Place to Work can give you a list of the best-rated companies to work for.
- Feelgood factor - Top-rated workplaces tend to prioritise employee wellbeing and give their staff opportunities to develop and grow. If you’re thinking of applying for a job, check the company’s website or the literature they send, to ensure staff wellbeing and development are a priority. If you’re not sure, you can always ask in an interview.