How to find a job

Finding a new job can be challenging, but with the right strategy and tools, it becomes a manageable process. Whether you're just starting out, switching careers, or returning to work, this guide walks you through each step

Know what you're looking for

Before you start your job search, think about what kind of role suits you best. Consider the: 

• employment type - full time, part time, freelance, contract or temporary? 
• industry - what field are you interested in? Browse job sectors to see what's on offer.
• role type - entry-level, experienced, managerial, etc.Ìý
• work environment - do you want to work remotely, in an office, hybrid? 

Taking time to define this upfront will save you from applying to roles that don't align with your goals.Ìý

Take our Job Match quiz to discover the roles suited to your skills and interests.Ìý

Update your CV

Your CV is often your first impression with a potential employer, so it needs to be both professional and persuasive. It should showcase your most recent and relevant experience while being tailored to each specific role you apply for.Ìý

To make your CV stand out: 

• Highlight your achievements - employers want to see what you've accomplished, not just your duties. Focus on measurable outcomes whenever possible, for example 'Increased social media engagement by 40% in six months'.Ìý
• Use clear formatting - use bullet points for responsibilities, consistent fonts, and clear section headings.Ìý
• Include keywords - many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter CVs. To get past these systems, mirror keywords and phrases from the job description - particularly those related to skills, qualifications, and job titles.Ìý
• Keep it concise - aim for one page if you're early in your career, or up to two pages if you have several years of experience.Ìý

Take a look at our example CVs for inspiration.Ìý

Where to look for jobs

Kick things off by using our job search tool, where you can browse thousands of current job openings. It's a fast, simple way to find roles that match your criteria. You can use filters to narrow your search by: 

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• job type 
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Online job boards remain one of the most popular and efficient ways to discover job listings. These platforms aggregate job postings across various industries and levels, allowing you to apply directly or through the company's portal.Ìý

Top job boards include: 

• Indeed - one of the largest global job boards with roles across all sectors.Ìý
• LinkedIn Jobs - for professional networking and personalised job recommendations.Ìý
• Glassdoor - combines job listings with company reviews and salary insights.Ìý
• Reed - particularly strong for UK-based opportunities.Ìý
• Monster - offers international listings along with helpful career advice.Ìý

Be sure to set up job alerts on these platforms so you're notified as soon as new roles go live.Ìý

Recruitment agencies act as the middleman between job seekers and employers. By registering with one or more agencies, you gain access to: 

• exclusive, unadvertised job opportunities 
• feedback on your CV and interview preparation 
• help negotiating salary or contract terms 
• industry-specific advice and market insights.Ìý

Choose agencies that specialise in your field for the best results.Ìý

If you have specific companies in mind, visit their websites and go straight to the 'careers' or 'jobs' page. Many organisations list vacancies exclusively on their own sites, particularly startups or smaller firms. Bookmark these pages and check them regularly.Ìý

Even if a company isn't actively hiring, reaching out with a speculative application can pay off. This involves sending a tailored email with your CV and a compelling cover letter explaining: 

• why you want to work for them 
• what kind of role you're seeking 
• what value you could bring to their team.Ìý

It demonstrates initiative and can lead to opportunities before they're publicly advertised. For inspiration in your application, see our example speculative cover letter.Ìý

In industries like retail, hospitality, and trades, walking into a business and asking if they're hiring is still a valid and sometimes effective method. Be polite, presentable, and bring a copy of your CV to leave behind. You never know when a business might be looking for extra help.Ìý

Write a great cover letter

Your cover letter is your chance to show personality, passion, and why you're the right fit for the role. Keep it focused, tailored, and engaging.Ìý

Tips for a standout cover letter: 

• Tailor it to the job - mention the company and role by name. Show you've researched them and explain why you're interested.Ìý
• Highlight key achievements - share a few specific accomplishments that relate to the job. Use numbers or results if possible.Ìý
• Show enthusiasm - let your passion for the role or company come through naturally.Ìý
• Keep it short - aim for three to. four brief paragraphs on a single page.Ìý
• Be specific - skip vague phrases like 'team player.' Use real examples that show your value.Ìý
• End with purpose - close with a confident, polite line like, 'I'd love the opportunity to contribute - thank you for considering my application'.Ìý

Apply strategically

Rather than sending out the same CV to hundreds of companies, take a more thoughtful, targeted approach. Strategic applications show employers that you've paid attention and that you're genuinely interested in the role.Ìý

Start by thoroughly reading the entire job listing. Look for key responsibilities, required qualifications, and any specific traits the employer values. Pay close attention to repeated phrases or listed priorities - they're often clues about what the company truly cares about in a candidate.Ìý

While you don't need to meet every requirement to apply, aim to match at least half. If you meet the core criteria, especially the must-haves, and can explain how you'll grow into the rest, you're likely a solid candidate.Ìý

Avoid spending time on roles where your experience is a complete mismatch. It's better to focus on positions that align with your: 

• career goals 
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• skills.Ìý

Browse our job profiles to identify which role best suits you.Ìý

Keep track of applications

Staying organised during your job search can make a big difference, not just in keeping your stress levels down, but also in helping you follow up effectively and spot trends in your results.Ìý 

To track your applications, consider using: 

• a simple spreadsheet using Google Sheets or Excel 
• a dedicated job search tracker tool or job hunt app 
• Trello, Notion, or Airtable for a more visual or customisable approach.Ìý

Keeping a clear record helps you avoid double applications, follow up at the right time, and evaluate what's working in your job hunt.Ìý

Be sure to track: 

• company name and role - so you know exactly what and where you've applied.Ìý
• date applied - Helps you decide when to follow up if you haven't heard back.Ìý
• application status - track whether it's submitted, under review, or rejected.Ìý
• interview dates - stay prepared and never miss an interview.Ìý
• follow up reminders - helps you stay proactive without being pushy.Ìý
• contact name and email - useful for direct follow-ups or thank-you notes.Ìý
• notes - jot down impressions, feedback, or next steps.Ìý

Prepare for interviews

A strong interview performance not only showcases your qualifications but also demonstrates your professionalism and enthusiasm for the role. Before the interview, take time to understand the employer's mission, values, and recent developments.Ìý 

Look into: 

• recent news or press releases 
• the company's social media activity 
• their website, especially the 'about us' and 'careers' sections.Ìý

Interviewers often ask variations of the same core questions. Practicing your responses will help you stay calm and clear under pressure. Be ready to answer: 

• Tell me about yourself.Ìý
• What are your strengths and weaknesses? 
• Why do you want to work here? 
• Can you describe a time when you overcame a challenge? 

For inspiration on what to respond, explore interview questions.Ìý

Interviews are a two-way street. Asking smart, thoughtful questions shows initiative and helps you figure out if the role is right for you. Avoid asking questions you could easily find online, and instead focus on those that reveal: 

• company culture 
• expectations of the role 
• growth opportunities.Ìý

Explore the 7 best questions to ask at an interview for guidance.

Follow up

After submitting your application or completing an interview, it's perfectly appropriate to follow up if you haven't heard back. As a general rule, wait about seven to ten business days after your application or interview before following up. This gives the employer reasonable time to review materials or complete interviews with other candidates.Ìý

If the job posting included a specific timeline, respect that, but feel free to check in once that window has passed.Ìý

Keep your message brief, polite, and professional. Reiterate your interest and thank them for their time. For inspiration, take a look at our example follow-up email after an interview: 

If you're following up on an application rather than an interview, you can use a similar format: 

• express interest 
• restate your enthusiasm 
• offer to provide more information if needed.Ìý

If you don't receive a response, don't take it personally. Hiring processes can be unpredictable and time-consuming. A polite follow-up helps you stay on their radar, and even if this role doesn't work out, it may open the door to future opportunities.

Find out more

• Explore the Office for Students' (OfS) Graduate employment and skills guide.
• Consider how to plan your career.
• Read The Topic to stay up-to-date on news, insights and opinions.