As the summer winds down and September rolls in, are you looking to refresh your CV and search for a new career opportunity?
If you’ve been putting off your job search over the summer, now is the perfect time to refocus your efforts and land that new role you’ve been eyeing up. Whether you’re just starting your first ever job search, or looking to make a career change, here are some actionable tips to help with your September search strategy.
1. Refresh your CV
Your CV is your first impression and you have around 4 – 6 seconds to catch the readers attention and make them want to read on.
• Have a clear, succinct profile paragraph at the top of your CV, that introduces you, highlights your key skills, qualifications and experience and tells the reader what you’re looking for next.
• Evidence relevant successes where possible to show potential employers the impact you’ve made and gives them a reason to want you on their team.
• Keep your CV succinct, professional, easy to read, and ideally no longer than two pages.
2. Update your LinkedIn profile
A strong LinkedIn profile is essential for networking and being discovered by recruiters and hiring managers.
• Update your headline and summary to what you currently do and what you’re looking for.
• Ensure your skills section is relevant, and the dates on your employment history perfectly mirrors your CV.
• Make your LinkedIn profile key word heavy with the words and phrases that you would want to be found with.
3. Improve your interview skills
Set yourself up to impress at your next interview by sharpening your interview skills:
• Prepare answers to common interview questions – a simple strategy but when the nerves kick in, being prepared will fall in your favour.
• Thoroughly research the company and understand their mission, values and recent news. Tailor your answers to align with their goals and culture. Have a read through their social media channels and write down any posts that have resonated with you, that you can mention at the interview.
• Prepare 3 really specific questions to ask the interviewer. This shows your interest in the role/company and helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you (avoid the generic questions most people ask, so you can stand out).
4. Maximise networking opportunities
• Networking and stepping out of your comfort zone are essential to your career growth, both can lead to new opportunities and increased self-confidence.
• Make the effort to attend local networking events, conferences, webinars, and workshops in your industry.
• Consider joining industry-specific groups on LinkedIn or other platforms. Participate in discussions, share your insights, and connect with group members.
• Reach out and reconnect with former colleagues, mentors or school / Uni friends. A simple message to catch up could open doors to new opportunities.
September is a time for new beginnings, making it the perfect season to advance your career.
By refreshing your CV, polishing your LinkedIn profile, sharpening your interview skills and leveraging networking opportunities, you can set yourself up for success in your job search.
Embrace the fresh start that autumn offers, and you’ll be well on your way to landing your next role.
Happy job hunting!
