10 Top Tips on How to Get a Job

Tip No. 1. Be clear on your preferred job but also be flexible

• Make sure that the job you are seeking is a realistic goal.
• Find out what experience and skills are currently expected.
• Be prepared to be flexible on the type of job and the location.

Tip No. 2. Update your resume and produce 'calling cards'

• Aim to stand out in the crowd with your resume.
• Carry around a supply of your own 'business cards.'
• Send out resumes and hand out your calling card, when appropriate.

Tip No. 3. Put in a reasonable amount of time & effort

• Check the newspapers, use the Internet and get on the phone.
• Target recruitment agencies that specialise in your industry.
• Put in a minimum set number of hours every week for job searching.

Tip No. 4. Do a little extra

• Have a go at a few different approaches.
• Complete company application forms and try self-advertising.
• Phone canvassing and door knocking are tough but can pay off.

Tip No. 5. Learn how to network

• 80% of jobs are not advertised - they are filled through networking.
• Tell everyone you meet you are looking for work and the type of job.
• Stay in regular contact with the right people and gently prompt them.

Tip No. 6. Tailor your resume to suit each situation

• When responding to job ads, make sure you answer all selection criteria.
• Young people should include unpaid work experience in their resume.
• Change your resume to suit the job ad and try to get/use a contact name.

Tip No. 7. Improve and practice your interviewing skills

• Participate in mock interviews and look for ways to improve.
• Learn how body language works and practice observing it.
• Practice looking people in the eye and asking the interviewer questions.

Tip No. 8. Be reliable & dependable

• Attend all appointments and interviews arranged - no excuses.
• Respond quickly to any requests for information or forms to be filled in.
• Employers rate "reliability" as one of the two most important requirements.

Tip No. 9. Remember that you never get a second chance to make a good first impression

• Be punctual and dress appropriately for interviews. Employers rate "appearance" up there with attitude, experience and reliability.
• 85%-95% of the selection decision is based on visual impressions and the tone of your voice, particularly in the first five minutes.

Tip No. 10. Keep smiling and stay positive

• Smile often and learn how to smile with your eyes (they light up).
• On average, job seekers have eight interviews before being offered a job.
• Employers rate "attitude & enthusiasm" as their number one requirement.

What to do now

To view available jobs or to get assistance, phone or email your local Jobfind Centre and ask to speak to a Consultant.

Local hotline 1300 360 562