Did you know that many jobs are never advertised?

Find a Focus
To generate interest from employers you need to find a career focus. That is make sure you’re applying for specific types of job with employers who offer that type of role. For example, if you’re interested in working with people in a supportive role, then aim your speculative job enquiries at charity trusts, housing support organisations, community care projects, youth work groups etc. Your CV and letter will have more impact, as you will be focusing on the skills and qualities needed by these employers.

If you’re unsure of a which career area or jobs to apply for, what about undertaking a career matching programme with Careers Wales, this will help you target your interests. You could also try our mini quiz in ‘Career Ideas'.

Your CV
Always argue for yourself – never against yourself. Design a skill based CV which is focused and specific. If you’re changing career, always project a positive slant on the skills and abilities you have to offer. For example, working in retail you develop excellent communication, negotiation and customer care skills. Translate these skills into the language of community care, and you are demonstrating insight, empathy, listening and advice and guidance skills. It’s all in the way you word things.

Everyone has transferable skills. The key is drawing out the relevant skills from your previous work experience and presenting them in a way that appeals to a particular employer. If you lack experience working with specific groups of people, some voluntary work or training could demonstrate you have the ability to fine tune your skills and abilities.

Try our CV wizard or register and create a CV using your own Progress File e-portfolio to help!

Speculative Letter
Your letter needs to appeal to the employer’s ego by showing your knowledge of their business. Include something that is unique to the company to show you have a real interest in the business and aren’t just sending out CVs into the abyss hoping to hit the jackpot! Research the company on the Internet, or even phone and ask for a copy of their annual report.

Always address your letter to the name of a key decision maker for instance the Chief Executive, Owner or Personnel Manager. Nothing insults an employer more than a speculative application addressed to no-one in particular, which asks for nothing in particular for no particular reason. CVs like these usually end up in the bin.
For help with application letters simply register and create an Application Letter using your own Progress File e-portfolio to help!