8 statements you are Myth-taken about for believing while job searching
One thing we all have to do, once we’ve made that decision to leave our current role is look at how to reach our personal goal of being happier at the workplace. Whether it’s got to do with salary, location, the flexibility of hours, team, progression, or recognition, unilaterally, we all have to do it at one point and join the hunt to secure a job.
What always happens to everyone, is that from nowhere, a mythical job-hunting gremlin of doubt pops up in your head and says, things like: ‘Your CV is far too long’; or “You will only get a job offer if you are currently already in a job”; or “all recruiters are evil”; and inevitably, someone you know will say “let me help you re-write your CV, I know what people are looking for these days”…
This gremlin of self-doubt is what I’d like to wrangle back into its cage in this blog. Along with hopefully reinstating confidence in you to believe that hunting for jobs need not be so tough. You can master the road to where the grass is greener. You very well may have 99 problems, but job hunting won’t be one!
Myth: You need to know someone to get a job
Truth: Networking and connections are important and very helpful when searching for a new role. However, they are not essential. You can find job opportunities through job search websites, Google, recruiters, LinkedIn and other resources.
Myth: Job Hunting is more difficult than the job itself
Truth: It can be extremely stressful. However, if you stay focused, organised, and disciplined it doesn’t have to be as difficult as you originally thought. You don’t have to do this alone. Obviously, recruiters can help you, job search websites also have alerts you can set up, and your own social media accounts are a great way to get your voice heard.
Myth: A CV is difficult to put together and I don’t have time to job search
Truth: Your CV is a summary of your education, work experience, employment and skills, tailored to the job you are applying for. A CV only needs to be two pages of A4. We have a handy guide to CV writing, which will make putting together your CV easy. View our guide here.
Hiring employers are often flexible with interview times and will work with you to find an interview time that works for both parties. So, if you work full-time you can still attend interviews.
We offer support at every stage of the job search process, from writing your CV, putting you forward for jobs, preparing for interviews to negotiating job offers. Also, we remain here for you once you are in your job. As a result, finding a new job won’t take up much of your free time and you can be confident that your job search is in safe hands.
Myth: You need to interview in person
Truth: the interview process is changing. Some employers have adopted video conferencing or other technology-based interviewing options. Some interview processes start with a video call or phone-call and move onto a face-to-face, and some go the complete other way round. Be prepared to at least meet once throughout the process before securing the position.
Myth: You need previous work experience
Truth: many jobs require less experience than you may think. Consider all your work experience, as well as relevant experience gained during your education. Have you completed any internships or volunteer experience in areas related to the job throughout your life? Also, consider all your transferable skills relevant to the job advertised and the sector it is in. So, don’t forget to include them on your CV. Doing this, will also show employers that you have knowledge of the job and the skills needed within the role.Furthermore, some companies look for people who want to re-train, either into a different discipline within their sector or into a new role entirely. In these roles full training will be provided.
Myth: You’re stuck with whatever career path you’re in
Truth: Not true. Did you know that Harrison Ford aka Hans Solo, or for you younger folks reading, Indiana Jones was a professional carpenter for 15 years?! Novelist John Grisham practised law for over 10 years before he wrote his first book. Proof that it can be done, but you need to have skills that are transferrable to your new role and be willing to learn.
Myth: Nobody hires during the Christmas holidays…
Truth: December is often associated with holiday festivities and winding down for the year, but for it might just be the opportune moment to embark on a job search. Contrary to the common belief that hiring activity slows down during this time, December presents unique advantages for those looking to carve a new path in their careers. Every organisation is different. So, there isn’t a universal hiring season. However, for many firms it is a time for reviewing, planning ahead and budgets being renewed. Generally, hiring managers are keen to fill their vacancies as soon as possible. As a result, there’s no slow down during December. In fact, most of our clients continue to book interviews right up until the festive break with a view to getting organised for the new year.
For those looking to progress in their careers, it is a great time to job search, as some people put their job search off to the new year. This means that you come across as proactive to hiring employees and will give you an competitive edge.
Myth: Recruiters take a huge commission and a cut of my salary
Truth: The service we provide to candidates is 100% free at every stage. If you get a job through us, we certainly don’t take money from your paycheque! We get a separate fee from our clients for the service we provide, and this will never affect your salary level. Recruitment is all about people, and here at Eventus Recruitment our recruiters are drawn to this world because we have a compulsive need to help! We get enormous job satisfaction from connecting a professional with their perfect job.
In Summary
Job hunting isn’t always an easy process and is stressful. Especially if you think that there are set rules you should follow. However, in reality this is not correct and that gremlin of doubt could potentially be holding you back!
If you’re looking for help with how to write a CV or job interview tips make sure you check out our Resources page for further handy tips.
Written by Sam Heraghty, Legal Resourcing Consultant at the Eventus Recruitment Group.
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