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Before you start looking for a job do some research, think about:
- what you want to do
- what qualifications and skills you have
- where you are willing to travel
Where to look for vacancies
There are lots of places to look, start with:
Connexions
If you are still at school check the Connexions vacancy notice board regularly. Make sure your Personal Adviser knows what sort of work you are looking for.
If you have left school, keep in touch with Connexions so that we can send you a regular Opportunities Newsletter. You can also call into your local Connexions Centre to get up to date information on employment and training vacancies.
Remember to keep checking the local Connexions website (see below)
Internet
There are many job websites available. Here are a few to get you started:
www.connexionsinsheffield.org.uk
www.fish4jobs.co.uk
www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk
jobseekers.direct.gov.uk
www.jobstoday.co.uk
Many large companies also advertise vacancies on their own websites
You can also try:
Looking for work can be very competitive; lots of other people could be going for the same jobs. Your CV, application form and interview can be the key to your success.
Your Connexions Personal Adviser can help you pull together a CV, fill in an application form and give tips on how to manage interviews.
Application Forms
Always fill in application forms carefully - theycould be rejected if thy are untidy or incorrect.
Tips on making a good application
- read through the whole form first and follow any instructions
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- ask someone to check your rough copy before you do the real thing
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- check your spelling, punctuation and grammar
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- use a large square envelope so it doesn't get squashed in the post
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- use black ink
- write about your hobbies and interests where they are relevant
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- make sure it arrives before the closing date
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To keep track of your application make a note of:
- date you sent the application
- position you applied for
- company and contact number
- closing date
CVs
A Curriculum Vitae (CV) is a summary of your qualifications, skills and experience. A good CV can make you stand out from other applicants.
What to include on a CV
- There is no single correct way of writing a CV but, as a rule, it should include:
- your name, address, telephone number
- details of your education
- details of your qualifications
- any work experience (include voluntary work)
- information about your skills (especially any that are needed for the job/course)
- brief details about hobbies/interests
- names and contact details of two people who can give a reference (remember to ask them first!)
Tips on writing a good CV
- try to word process your CV and keep a copy
- use simple font types e.g. Arial or Courier
- keep it up to date - always add new qualifications and achievements
- keep it short - 2 pages A4 is the maximum
- check your CV for spelling and grammar
- think about the layout - it should be easy to read
- always tell the truth
- ask someone to check your CV before you send it off
Applying online
If you are asked to apply through a website, keep to the same rules, e.g. follow instructions carefully, do a practice version first and check your spelling, punctuation and grammar.
Writing successful letters
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Don’t |
Try to word process the letter – unless you’re asked to do otherwise |
Make any handwritten amendments to a word processed letter |
Use plain white paper |
Use coloured paper |
Check the name and job title of the person you are writing to |
Use first name terms – unless you know the person well |
Address the letter properly using Dear Sir / Madam, Dear Mr…etc |
Forget to sign the letter |
Make sure the letter is presentable |
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Remember to include your own name / address / phone number / email |
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Check for grammatical errors – computers aren’t always right |
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REMEMBER...
First impressions count!
BE POSITIVE...
sell yourself!
you have a lot to offer!
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