You have done the hard yards. Your career action plan is set out, your resume is ready, and you understand what makes a great cover letter. You now have the keys to success.
Ready, set, go!
Start feeling like you are at work by treating your job search as a job. Try implementing the following:
- Set aside time each day to focus on applying for positions, following up on applications and preparing for interviews.
- Keep track of your activities such as positions you have applied for, useful contacts and recruitment agencies, schedule follow-ups and closing dates.
- Continue researching companies and industries in your area of interest.
There are many ways to approach the job search. Here are some methods to get you started.
Online
Online job search websites are the single biggest source of employment opportunities and the most obvious place to start. Some of the more widely used sites include:
Set up notifications on these sites to ensure that new jobs land in your inbox as soon as they are advertised.
Recruitment agencies
Professional recruitment agencies can work well, particularly if you have specialised skills and experience. Some of the larger recruitment agencies include:
Disability Employment Service (DES)
DES providers can support you to locate employment and provide onsite and ongoing support once in the role. They can advocate on your behalf and assist with applications to Job Access or workplace modifications if required.
Social media and professional networking
Social media is a great tool when you know how to make it work for you. This article, How To Make LinkedIn Work For You, posted on Forbes by William Arruda, provides some tips on how to optimise your profile and get the most from the networking opportunities on offer.
Common platforms include:
- X (Formerly Twitter)
- Industry-specific apps and sites. For example; the Found Careers app lets you swipe to apply for a job advertisement.
Don’t underestimate your personal and professional contacts. Let people know that you are seeking employment and what roles you’re looking for. Try expanding your network by attending business events and being active in your community.
Volunteering is another great way to expand your network with the added bonus of gaining work-related skills and potential referees for your resume.
Applying for jobs
A job has come up. Check the closing date and make sure you submit your application on time.
Before submitting your application ask someone to proofread it. They should check it for spelling and grammar, typos and readability. This could be a friend, family member, support person, a project officer from An Eye to the Future, an app such as Be my Eyes or Aira, or an Employment Consultant if you are registered with a recruitment agency or DES.
If you have not heard back from your potential future employer approximately one week after the closing date, it is okay to reach out to them and ask how their selection process is progressing. Let them know you are still interested in the role and looking forward to hearing from them soon.
Ideally, the organisation will contact you to invite you in for an interview or conduct a screening call to assess your suitability.
Unsuccessful applicants are generally notified by email. If you do receive a rejection email, a good strategy is to request feedback about your application. This feedback can help strengthen your future applications.