Finding a Job Vacancy in Edinburgh
FINDING A JOB – WHERE TO LOOK FOR JOB VACANCIES IN EDINBURGH
There are so many ways of finding a job and so many organisations out there to help you, it’s hard to know where to begin! If you need help cutting through the job-hunt jungle, read on for our informed guide to gainful employment in the Capital….
What Job?
You may already have an established skill or profession and want to continue/develop that. If you need advice on how to proceed (or Scotland-specific information) contact Careers Scotland and ask for an appointment with a careers adviser.
If you’re new to the job market or looking to pursue a totally different career you may need more fundamental advice. Careers Scotland offer CareersMatch - a comprehensive online assessment tool to help you decide what careers are best suited. It’s simple - you answer thought-provoking questions about your likes and dislikes; your responses are saved (so you can review and update them at any time) and – hey presto! - a list of suitable jobs are automatically generated. A great starting point for discussions with a careers adviser.
Or click here to check out the Career Doctor Q & A on the Total Jobs website.
Job Trends
It’s all very well finding a great-sounding occupation, but you need to make sure genuine openings exist in that industry (and will continue to exist in the foreseeable future). Again, Careers Scotland have a handy ‘Job Trends’ section on their website which gives updated information on overall trends in Scottish industry.
Locating the Jobs
Jobs are advertised or made public in a number of ways. Each medium has its own established application route.
Advertised Jobs
Many jobs are advertised in freesheets, local papers and the national press. Generally they'll ask you to send in a CV or Curriculum Vitae (a written record of your education and employment history) or they may want you to complete an application form which you send in with a covering letter.
Click here for our informed guide to completing a CV, job application and covering letter.
Online Jobs
Employers are increasingly using the internet to recruit staff. The basic application process is similar to that for traditionally advertised jobs, but there are some technical differences.
Click here to read CareersScotland’s guide to online applications.
Non-Advertised Jobs
Many job vacancies are not advertised on the internet, through recruitment agencies or newspapers. These opportunities are often called "the hidden jobmarket". People often find out about these jobs through contacts, networking and word of mouth. Some estimate that up to 70% of jobs are filled this way so it’s a route you ignore at your peril!
Click here to read CareersScotland’s guide to accessing the hidden job market.
Speculative Approaches
Again, since so many jobs are never formally advertised, speculative approaches to employers should form a key part of your job search. Target employers in the industry sectors you’re interested in, but make sure you tailor your approach. Employers don’t like to feel they’re the recipients of a mass-mailing!
Click here to read CareersScotland’s guide to Speculative Approaches.
Recruitment Agencies
Recruitment agencies can be a valuable addition to your jobsearch portfolio. But proceed with caution. Consultants work for employers – not you. If they find you a job, they collect a commission. This means that in practice the less reputable ones may be tempted to direct you to the jobs that need filled rather than the jobs that best meet your needs.
Click here to read our Informed Guide to getting the best from Recruitment Agencies.
Interview Skills
If you’re fortunate enough to be granted an interview there are a number of key things to remember. Do as much research as you can on the job itself and the company you’re applying to. If you’re asked why you’re ideal for the job/company (or why the job/company is ideal for you!) you need to be able to answer in an informed way. Don’t forget interview basics – arrive on time, dress appropriately and be thoroughly prepared. The Total Jobs website has comprehensive advice on preparing for a winning interview. Click here to access.
Career Development
Click here for our Informed Guide to Nailing that Promotion….
Have Your Say
Do YOU have any thoughts on job hunting in the Capital? Post your comments below.
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