How has job hunting changed?

1. Remote working options

Thanks to collaborative online platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams and GoToMeeting, working as a team from different locations is a lot easier than it used to be. You may not need to focus your job search in one area as remote working options could mean that you can work from where you are. By widening your search geographically, you will have access to more opportunities and may be able to progress further in your career. To avoid missing out on the perfect job due to location, ask potential employers about their remote working or hybrid working policies to understand their level of flexibility.

2. Virtual interviews are popular

With working in the same office becoming less common, interviewing is increasingly taking place online. This saves time and money for both the company and you! Getting stuck in traffic on the way to an interview, or not knowing where to park can add extra stress and anxiety to the process so attending interviews from home could not only enable you to attend more, but could make searching for a job less stressful. It is likely you will need a video camera (even if it is the one on your smartphone) to interview for a job. Make sure you know how to use it, have a strong internet connection and good lighting to make a professional virtual first impression.

3. Maintaining your online network is important

Have you connected with your colleagues on LinkedIn? These platforms are an easy and efficient way for companies to recruit. Connecting with colleagues you meet throughout your career can drastically increase your opportunities in the future. Employers are often promoting their vacancies on platforms such as LinkedIn and a simple message to let them know you are interested, or advertising your particular skillset, can result in employment. The more people you are connected with and the more up-to-date your CV is can impact invitations to apply for new roles. If you are openly looking for a new job, you can let employers know by simply changing your profile status.

4. You can search and apply for jobs at any time

If you have a smartphone, you can apply for jobs from anywhere, at any time! Once your CV is uploaded to websites such as the EURES portal or saved in a file on your phone, you can search for jobs and submit applications in an instant. Whether you are on the way to work, on a lunch break or sitting in a park, you can keep an eye on the latest vacancies and increase your number of applications. The EURES portal is full of vacancies in 31 European countries and EURES Advisers are available to help you with your job hunt at any time. Applying for a job has never been so easy. Spending five minutes on your search each day will add up, especially if you have limited time.

5. Your skills are more important than your current job title

There used to be a lot of emphasis on job titles but, in a changing environment, employers are focusing on adaptability, reliability (particularly in remote working situations), and problem-solving as well as job-specific skills. With this in mind, it is important not to be discouraged by your job title, but to focus on the skills you can offer. If you are interested in upskilling, there are many free online courses you can enrol in to show that you are willing to learn and develop.

For more tips on searching for jobs, see our ‘Top 6 tips for effective online networking’.

Related links:

Top 6 tips for effective online networking

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