Just under 18 months ago, I was a graduate looking to enter the employment market and searching for my first job. I had no idea where to start and since joining Thompson & Terry Recruitment, I have learned first-hand exactly how to find a job, where to search, building my CV and everything in between. So, this blog is designed to help you find your first job post education and how to build your CV to attract employers.

Building your CV

Firstly, I would advise having a real look at what industry or what job you want to go into. Do as much research as you can before you are even at the stage of applying for jobs. This will ensure that you have a clear goal in mind of what you want to do.

• Tailor your CV so that job seekers can clearly see what you’re after (this will ensure you flag up in key searches)
• Find some courses you can complete in your own time relating to the job/industry you’re interested in (there are often lots of free courses you can enrol in)
• Volunteer within a comparable role on a part-time basis
• Build up connections via LinkedIn and networking

Look for opportunities

One of the biggest things to remember is that even if you feel like your temporary or current job is a million miles off the career you want to enter into, it can still help you and go towards your credibility for the role. For example;

• A promotion in any job shows your willingness to learn and develop and this also helps show the employer that you are hardworking and hungry to succeed
• Taking on extra responsibilities shows that you are dedicated
• State your achievements within that role
• Have you implemented something into that role which now works better?

Building references

Setting up your LinkedIn account is key as lots of recruiters will use this platform to search for potential candidates.

• Firstly, set your profile to ‘Actively seeking work’ so that recruiters know you’re in the market
• Ask people you have worked with previously to give you a recommendation or reference on your LinkedIn profile (this helps evidence your experience and will help recruiters see what you are like within the workplace)

If you do need any additional help, then click here to find lots of other guides that can assist you when entering the employment market.