Top tips for getting a job

Ready to start your next job search, but are unsure of where to begin?

You’ve come to the right place. Mylestones Employment Regional Manager Michael Heit has shared his top tips for landing a job at any career level.

Be resilient 

We know searching for a job can be exhausting at the best of times. Unfortunately, the reality is that for many of us, we will more often get a "no" than a "yes", but remember: you only need one yes to be successful.

The critical thing to remember is to be resilient. And if you ever find yourself feeling overwhelmed or stressed, talk to someone, take a step back, breathe, and once you’re in the right headspace, resume your job search journey.

Make sure your resume and cover letter hits the mark

Your resume is the first thing the employer sees. It’s your chance to set the tone: introduce yourself and let them know why you are the best person for the job. 

Employers are often inundated with applications, so make sure your resume is clear, concise, easy to read and most importantly, stands out. 

Employment website Seek, advises candidates to include the below details on their resume: 

• Personal details – Name and contact information. 
• Career objective or summary – In a sentence or two outline your skills and work ambition. 
• Education – List your latest education experience first and work backwards. 
• Work experience – List your most recent jobs, including the job title, name and location of the company and the dates you worked there. 
• Skills, strengths and interests – Highlight any which are relevant to the job you’re applying for. 
• References – Include the contact details (name, phone and email) of up to three referees who can vouch for your skills and abilities.  

If you really want to stand out, go a step further. Include your achievements and anything you’re particularly proud of from your last job or in life. You could even include a few personal details: your hobbies, likes and dislikes.

If you’re artsy or good with computers, you could also add some design flair. Just make sure you don’t go too overboard as it could distract from your information. 

Don’t be afraid to tackle the hidden job market

The hidden job market is the jobs that are never posted online or in papers. A great way to find work through the hidden job market is to write down a list of companies you would like to work for and start approaching them. You can approach them through email or phone (available on the company’s website), or if you’re really confident, you could stop by their offices for a quick chat and take a copy of your resume with you. 

Research the business, the role and what skills you can offer

When you’re invited to an interview, take the time to do your research on the company before you attend.

You can learn a lot about a business from their website and social media. Having an understanding of what the business does and how your skills can support their mission and vision is always impressive to an employer.

Some things to look out are the companies key vision objectives, how long they have been around for and what made them stand out to you as an employer. 

Dress for success

Not all job interviews require you to wear a suit, but it's important you dress for the job you're applying for.

By taking pride in your appearance, it shows potential employers that you want to make a good first impression (even before you open your mouth!)

Have the right attitude

We know interviews can be a daunting experience, but it’s important to show the employers your passion for their business and for landing the job. 

Your attitude and how you handle the interview can make a lasting impact long after the recruitment process is over. 

Be contactable 

Once you’ve been for an interview, you might find yourself checking your phone and waiting for a call. When you eventually get the call, remember to be friendly and clear. 

If you can’t answer right away, return the call promptly and make sure your voicemail is workplace appropriate such as: “Hello. You’ve reached (insert name). I’m not available right now, but if you could please leave your name, number and a short message, I’ll get back to you. Thanks.”

The same applies to email responses. You may wish to create a separate email account for job applications as your personal account may not be suitable. An example of a professional email address is [email protected]. 

Talk to Mylestones (or your employment services provider)

Remember, there are people out there to support you on your job hunt. Reach out to an employment services provider who can assist you with nailing the perfect resume or cover letter, presentation tips and interview techniques.
Providers can also assist you with intimate knowledge of the labour market, job trends during COVID, applying for currently advertised vacancies or helping you with landing a role through the hidden job market.