1

Keep your LinkedIn profile regularly updated and refreshed

2

Build a close relationship with your agency. Work with them and be honest

3

Find the unadvertised jobs. Use your network of friends and acquaintances

4

Keep your CV down to a max of 3 pages

5

Never give up the fight!  Stay focused

6

Always keep a copy of the job description of the job you apply for

7

Make sure you have at least 2 people that will give you a good reference

8

Send a thank you letter or e-mail after any interview

9

Update your LinkedIn photo

10

List any voluntary/charity work you do on your CV

11

Research the company before your interview

12

Dress appropriately for the type of job you are being interviewed for

13

Write an interesting and compelling profile for the top of your CV

14

Do a ‘dummy run’ of the journey before your interview

15

Find out as much information as possible on the person who is doing the interview

16

Ask someone to read your CV for errors/spelling mistakes

17

Keep eye contact with the interviewer. Always look interested.

18

Search for new contacts on LinkedIn

19

Keep your cover letter to just one page

20

Always be on time for interviews

21

Refresh your CV on the job boards

22

Follow up CV’s sent, it shows interest

23

Smile :0) A positive outlook brings positive results!

24

Use social networking sites to expand your network of contacts

25

Try not to be knocked back by rejection. Learn from it and move on

26

Draft some template cover letters

27

Never say bad things about previous employers

28

Make notes during interviews to refer back to if invited back for a second meeting

29

Be pro-active in your search, don’t wait for opportunities to come to you – they wont

30

Do not use your work e-mail address when job hunting

31

Tell the employer why you think you would be good for the job

32

Set up a professional voice mail message on your mobile phone

33

Only tell colleagues you trust that you are looking for a job

34

Keep a diary specifically for your job applications and follow ups

35

Include your transferable skill on your CV, especially if changing careers

36

Be flexible and open minded when applying for jobs

37

Try not to be nervous. Arrive in plenty of time for interviews and try to relax

38

Make a good first impression. A firm handshake and a smile always works!

39

If offered a telephone interview, speak clearly, be upbeat and listen

40

Set up a separate e-mail address for your job search to keep you focused

41

Consider taking a temporary or contract position until you find the ‘right’ job

42

Make sure you receive the job offer in writing before handing in your notice

43

Consider having 2 CV’s if you often find yourself applying for 2 different types of positions

44

Re-visit your CV often. Is there anything that needs changing

45

Attend job fares or open days. Take along several copies of your CV to give to potential employers

46

Make looking for a job a full time job. Manage your time a be disciplined with yourself

47

Research growth markets. Re-train if necessary

48

Never lie on your CV or at an interview. If you don’t know the answer be honest

49

Use good quality paper to present your CV

50

When searching on the job boards, don’t just search recent jobs.  Positions that are hard to fill stay open longer

51

Practice for interviews using role play with a friend or colleague

52

Prepare for rejection but don’t let it get you down. Try and try again, you will find a job

53

Send speculative CV’s to employers even if they are not actively advertising for staff

54

Make sure you spell the persons name correctly that you are sending your CV to

55

Get an early night before your interview.  Arrive refreshed with a clear mind

56

Tell an employer that you are willing to be trained or cross-trained even at your own expense if necessary

57

Search company career pages on a regular basis for newly advertised jobs

58

Be as flexible as possible on location. If you are able to re-locate there will be more opportunities open to you

59

Job hunting is competitive. Be prepared to compete

60

If asked to do a presentation, keep it simple and learn your subject thoroughly

61

Always thank the interviewer for their time and finish the meeting with a handshake

62

Don’t price yourself out of the market. Be realistic and as flexible as possible.