Job seekers

1. Identify your strengths:

Knowing what you are good at will help you understand what types of jobs you should apply for. It will improve your chances of getting a job and should mean you will enjoy the job more once you have started it.  Write a list of the things you are good at and that you like to do. Think about the kind of role you’d like. Consider whether you would prefer to work with people, for example, or outdoors, or perhaps it would suit you to earn and learn at the same time, like in an apprenticeship role. Write down what is most important to you.

2. Create a CV:

Your CV should detail your employment history, your skills, and your strengths. Include your educational history too, such as where you went to school and what qualifications you have.  

If you are looking for your first job, you could include any volunteering or regular hobbies you have had, such as playing in your local football team which demonstrates teamwork and reliability.  

You can search online to find a CV template or create your own. Remember to make sure your contact details are up to date.

3. Finding career opportunities:

There are lots of online tools to help you find a new job. Online job searches are free, available 24/7 and should be one of the first places you look for your next job opportunity.

Harborough District Council also hold regular Job Clubs and Job Fairs. You don’t need an appointment to attend, and careers advisors are on hand to help you with your cv, find free training and local job and apprenticeship opportunities. You can find out more on the Invest in Harborough website.  

The Economic Business team also offers a wide range of free support if you are thinking of setting up your own business.

4. Prepare

Most employers use interviews to help them recruit the right person. Read up about the company you have applied to and list some reasons why you are interested in working for them, what excites you about the role you have applied for, and why you think you would be suitable for the job. Find out how to prepare for a job interview.

5. Moving on up

Going forward, read the job descriptions you’re interested in and identify if you have any gaps in the skills, experience or qualifications required. Look for training courses to boost your qualifications or think about volunteering to obtain the skills or experience necessary for the role you want. There is support available and nothing should hold you back! 

Read our advice on how to make your job application stand out.