How To Get A Job Employment

Whether you have been out of work for a while, have just left school or fancy a change from your current role, knowing where to start when it comes to finding a job isn’t always easy. That’s why we’ve put together our ‘How To Get A Job’ guide to help you through the process step-by-step. 

Prepare your documents

The first step in searching for a job is to make sure you have an up-to-date CV, your National Insurance Number, qualifications, photo ID, birth certificate, proof of your address, and your P45 (if you have one).

Most job applications will require some (if not all) of this information, so having it prepared before you start your job search will make the process easier. You will find your National Insurance number on: 

  • P60 
  • Letters from HMRC about tax, pensions or benefits
  • P45 
  • Online through your personal tax account

Ensure you have both paper copies of your CV to take directly to employers, and an electronic copy that can be sent via email or uploaded to job search engines. For more support in writing your CV & Cover Letter, check out our CV Writing Guide. 

Explore Your Options

Before you begin your job search, it’s a good idea to take some time to think carefully about the type of job you want. If you have previous experience, this may be an easier task. But if you haven’t worked for a while, or have never worked before, it will take some thought. 

Start by making a list of your interests, skills, experiences and ambitions. This will help you to understand where your strengths lie and what type of job might be right for you. This is also a good opportunity to identify any training needs you may have. There are lots of self-assessments and skills tests online that can give you an idea of the type of roles you might enjoy. 

When you have a shortlist of suitable jobs or industries, then you can start searching for roles. 

Start Searching 

Starting your job search can feel overwhelming simply because there are so many places that advertise roles. To help you, we’ve put together some of the best places to look for the most recent jobs: 

  • Government Website – https://findajob.dwp.gov.uk/
  • Online job search engines (Indeed, Monster, etc)
  • Physical job boards 
  • Social Media (Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn) 
  • Local newspapers 
  • Careers Fairs 
  • Shop windows 
  • Recruitment agencies 
  • Jobcentre

If there is somewhere you would like to work, don’t shy away from sending your CV directly to them. You can do this by post or email, or just pop in to say hello and bring a copy of your CV and cover letter with you! 

Boost Your CV 

If you are fresh out of school or college, or have been out of work for a while, it may be a good idea to take a proactive approach and get some relevant experience under your belt. There are a few ways you can do this, including volunteering and work placements. Many local charity shops and businesses will take on volunteers, so don’t be shy of asking. You never know what may come of it. 

Apply For A Role 

If you find a job role that you would like to apply for, then it’s time to make an application. Before you do though, make sure you read the job description in detail. Take a moment to look through the requirements and the duties to ensure your experience and qualifications are suitable for what they are looking for.

It’s a good idea to tailor your CV and Cover Letter to the job you are applying for. This will help you effectively show how you meet the requirements and demonstrate any relevant experience. While it may be tempting to apply for every and any job you see, make sure you meet the criteria in the job specification. Many job adverts will make it clear exactly what sorts of skills, experience and qualifications are required or desired, so use this as a guide to whether you should apply or not. 

The job advert will also make it clear how they want you to apply, so make sure you do so in the right way. This could be through email, online application form, by post, or in person! 

Prepare For Your Interview 

If you get an invitation for an interview, you may feel a bit nervous but don’t worry. If you take the time to prepare you will feel more confident. 

First of all, check the location of the interview and plan your journey. If you are taking public transport, make sure you know which route you are taking and give yourself plenty of time to get there. Generally, it’s good to turn up no more than 10 minutes before your interview time. 

Next, choose your outfit. What is appropriate to wear depends on the industry of the job role, but as a general rule, wear something that looks smart like a shirt or blouse, a pair of black trousers and comfortable, appropriate shoes.

Then, prepare some answers to typical interview questions and make sure you have some questions you’d like to ask the employer at the end of the interview.  Certain interviews may require you to prepare something in advance, such as a presentation, talk or even take an online test. Be sure to look out for these and have it ready in good time. 

Lastly, make sure you bring along with you any required documentation. This should be specified in your interview invitation, but if you’re not sure bring along a copy of your CV, your passport or birth certificate and any relevant qualifications you have. Make sure you have your National Insurance Number to hand too! 

Remember: a job interview is an opportunity for both you and the employer to find out if you’d be a good fit, so relax and be yourself! 

For more job interview help, click here to see our in-depth guide to interview preparation. 

Our Top Tips For Finding a Job 

  • Register your CV on job boards and with recruitment agencies. 
  • Ask for feedback after unsuccessful interviews.
  • Seek help if you’re struggling!

Here at BBO, we can help you in building your skills and finding a job that’s a great fit for you. For a detailed and private 1-2-1 with one of advocates who can advise and help, please call 01902 96228 or apply through the form below to request a callback.