From the best apps to giving a good interview, experts share their top tips on how you can get a new job in 2018
In the office with the back-to-work blues? Then follow these tips to help you get your dream job in 2018.
IF you’re in the market for a new job, the beginning of a new year might be the ideal opportunity for a fresh start.
January is a notoriously busy month for recruiters, as many Brits hunt for new positions in the hope of lifting their back-to work blues.
Resignations and online job searches are at their highest in January, with many setting New Year Resolutions to finally pursue a new career.
The thought of starting fresh may be exciting and daunting at the same time.
But whether you want to set up your own business, switch industries, or get a pay rise and progress at your current job, we’ve teamed up with recruitment experts to get the advice for you.
Freshen up your CV
Updating your CV can seem like a boring task but first impressions count and it's the key to getting an interview - and it helps to do it before the January job rush when there's lots of other job-seekers looking to boost their career.
Claire Harvey, from recruitment company REED North, said: "If you're looking for a new opportunity in 2018, act now and focus on updating this year’s achievements.
"More and more employers are looking for people with good cross-functional skills, so showing you are a key team member is vitally important."
Make sure your CV sells yourself and your skills - ideally it shouldn't be longer than two pages of A4 - and get someone to give it a quick once over so they can pick up any glaring typos or mistakes.
When it comes to applying, you should tailor your CV for the role you're after.
Use the job description to make sure your CV covers all bases for what they want in a candidate.
The same applies when it comes to writing a good cover letter.
David Whitby, careers expert at Glassdoor, said: "Cover letters are your opportunity to show that you have the background and knowledge needed to do the job well, but also that you are passionate, charismatic and well informed.
"Make your contact information really easy to find and make it clear in the intro that you know who the company is, what they do and what they care about."
How to get a pay rise
WITH rising inflation and stagnant wages, Brits have found their household budgets being squeezed over the last few years.
But asking for a pay rise can be one of the most awkward things you can do at work – so how should you go about it?
Mr Whitby said that the key to asking for a raise is to be prepared and to know what your worth is by researching how much those in similar jobs at different companies are on.
He said: “The topic may be uncomfortable, so to make it as effective as possible then make your request at a strategic time, such as your annual performance review.
“Remember to express appreciation for what you currently have and enthusiasm for your future goals. Make sure to be specific in terms of your desired salary number, and specifically outline how you came to this conclusion.”
If your meeting isn’t successful, all is not lost.
Steve Thompson from added: “It can feel a little embarrassing and frustrating if you receive a rejection.
“But the way you handle it will say a lot about your character, and your manager will be looking out for your reaction.
“Show your commitment and enthusiasm to improving by asking for an opportunity to make a plan – with input from your seniors – on what you need to achieve in order to get that all important “yes” next time.”
Download a job app
One tip is to download a job search app on your phone.
This has the advantage of allowing cutting down the amount of time you have to spend job hunting, as well as helping you to avoid being caught by your boss or colleagues looking at job sites on your work computer.
Mr Whitby said: "Pick an app that allows you to filter your job search based on employee ratings, for instance, limiting the search to four stars and above if you want.
"They key thing here is that you can easily avoid nightmare workplaces by spending time getting clued up on what current employees think."
is one the leading job apps and you can search and apply for jobs through their app in just a few simple taps. It’s all about location so you can browse jobs from all over the UK.
You can also find a job using , which will give you access to the latest job listing from companies hiring at the moment and get an inside look at companies reviews, salaries and benefits.
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LinkedIn and other social media platforms are also big players. Start by updating your profiles and follow the companies you're interested in on their social networks.
Join a recruitment agency
Another way of getting your CV out there is by giving your details to a recruitment agency.
Many recruiters specialise in certain industries, so if you're looking for a particular role find out what recruiter would be best.
It's also worth giving your details to an agency that will have a chat with you, either face to face or over the phone, so they can get a real feel for what's important to you in your next role, and try and help you get it.
Steve Thompson from Forward Role Recruitment said: "Be upfront and honest about your likes, dislikes, hopes, dreams and aspirations!
"Consultants from a reputable agency will have built a strong relationship with their clients, so they will be able to match your skills and experience to the closest fit.
"The right consultant will be a great knowledge base and be able to offer well rounded advice and guidance."
Have a great interview
Once you've wowed your potential new employer with your application, they'll want to interview you to see if you're up to the job.
Again, a lot of this comes down to research. Find out what the company does, what its plans for the future are and how you can be a part of it.
Make sure you sell your skills and why your the ideal candidate for the role - don't let nerves get the better of you.
To help get prepared, practice answering questions you are likely to be asked and always have a couple of questions for them too.
"Remember the interview is a two-way street and you need to gather as much information as you can in order to make a good decision," Mr Whitby added.
And of course - make sure you turn up early or if you're running late let them know - and wear something smart.
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