Looking for a Job

At the start of October the latest figures for UK unemployment were released. The number now stands just shy of 2.5million, the highest level since 1997. Experts have, however, pointed out that the increase from the last quarter, 88,000, is the lowest level since July 2008.

Whilst some have heralded these figures as encouraging and proof that the recession is easing, it doesn't make it any easier for the 2.47 million people who are looking for work.

So with a record number of people applying for every job that comes up, how can you boost your own chances of finding employment? Well, there are a number of things that you can do.

Make sure that you spread your net as widely as possible. Sign on with the Job Centre, but also keep a regular eye on the newspaper job sections and online job boards. The more jobs you apply for, the more experience you will get with interviewing and the quicker you will find yourself work.

Another thing that you must do is polish your CV. In a pile of application forms and CVs, you need to make yours stand out. Make sure that it's clear and well presented, if possible have a slight amount of colour so that it stands out (not garish colours, obviously, but a little colour can catch the eye) and make sure that it highlights all of your skills.

You should do your best to highlight all your skills, even if you don't think that they are relevant or worthwhile. Employers all want people who they know will be conscientious, organised, good at working in teams, as well as hopefully having relevant job experience. If your CV doesn't demonstrate these basic attributes you should rewrite it to make sure that it does.

Another thing that you could consider is signing on with recruitment agencies. Many agencies have a lot of people on their books all going for not many jobs, however, recruitment agencies don't charge to sign on, and it can't hurt your chances.

As you apply for jobs, which can be a time consuming process, if you can, try and support your skills. If there is any temporary work experience available locally, why not apply for it? You may not get paid much, or at all, but it may provide you with relevant experience and employers will look positively on those who have shown the initiative and motivation to keep working, even if they have been unsuccessful at finding full time posts.