On The Hunt

Whether you're a school leaver or university graduate, the job search process can be a daunting task. On one hand you are ready to start your professional career but on the other hand you may not feel sufficiently prepared. Suzanne Cameron, Senior Commercial Consultant from Carlton Resource Solutions gives advice to first time job seekers and highlights the key steps to take in preparation for starting a career.

Suzanne says, Very often, once someone has finished school, college or university, they find themselves uncertain about which direction they want to take. The real world of work can be a challenge, so by setting sensible expectations and recognising that they will probably have to start at the bottom and work their way up is important. First time job seekers should be pro-active, persistent and confident that there is a job out there for them.

Recently started her first job is 17-year old Nadia Cruickshank. Commenting on her job seeking experiences and highlighting the importance of making an effort she says, When I started looking for work, I found that I got the best results through a combination of sending out my CV to organisations I was interested in and through using a recruitment agency. I felt that I made a lot more progress once I had identified what it was I wanted to do and focused on applying for jobs relating to my chosen career path.

Suzanne Cameron highlights these steps for first time job seekers:

Pinpoint your direction
The first step to take is to decide what exactly you want to do and the areas you would like to work in. Determine your strengths and identify what kind of careers would best suit you. It is also important to take into account your weaknesses as well as your likes, dislikes and personal interests when thinking about your career plan. This will aid you in identifying careers that you will find interesting and enjoyable.

Do your research
Research is a vital step in planning your career. This includes taking time to look at companies you are initially interested in as well as being open minded about companies and industries you haven't considered before. There are lots of opportunities within a variety of sectors that may not be obvious. Once you have identified companies you would like to work for, look at their websites, read news articles and talk to current employees to learn more. Initial research will also aid you in interviews as it shows employers that you have a genuine interest in a role within that company.

Have the right tools
You need to have the right tools for the task and in job seeking these are an updated CV, covering letter and if applicable a portfolio of relevant information, including examples of your work, achievements, certificates and awards. As your number one tool when job seeking, the CV should focus on your strengths and experience, selling your best qualities to the reader. It is important to highlight your accomplishments and results and describe how they apply to the working environment. You should also provide reliable references which will support your CV.

The covering letter to your CV should be adapted for each application. Each company you are applying to will operate differently and require different strengths and experience for the role. It is important you identify these within your covering letter and demonstrate your enthusiasm to work for that company.

Most importantly, don't forget to proof read your CV and covering letter.

Be pro-active
When looking for a job, there are a variety of options aside visiting your local job centre. A recruitment agency will match you with potential employers across a range of occupations and give you the best job options across a variety of industries.

A prime opportunity to find out more about companies and vacancies is through attending job fairs. These fairs give you first hand experience of the company and often give you an opportunity to informally chat with current employees.
Many companies also advertise jobs on their company website, so it is definitely worth keeping an eye out for potential roles.

Suzanne concludes, Most importantly it is essential that you keep a positive attitude throughout your job hunt. Many people receive knock backs when applying for their first job so don't be disheartened if you do. When you do get invited for an interview you will feel much more prepared and confident if you have followed the initial steps.

Established in Aberdeen in 1981, Carlton Resource Solutions (Carlton) has grown and developed to cover all geographic regions through its operational hubs in Aberdeen and London. Recruiting for a wide range of technical and non-technical opportunities, Carlton matches candidates to employers across the full spectrum of occupations in the accountancy and finance, commercial, HR and training, industrial, information technology, technical and engineering disciplines, in both public sector and other corporate environments. Carlton recruits for permanent, contract or temporary placements.