Understanding job market and getting your dream job, part 2
As we are discussing the job market, and increasing your chances to successfully secure a position which you are hoping for after the summer, Kasturi Dasgupta continues with few more points, which she finds important to pay attention to:
Add workshare codes
“Adding the workshare codes to your CV has been a good choice every time. This allows the recruiters to complete their due diligence before initiating interviews, which means there are less chances of rejections at the later stage. It is imperative to remember that a lot of people apply for the same positions and not all of them have the right to work in the UK. Simply adding the workshare code makes a significant difference in being invited to the following stage of the application.”
If possible, use UK references
“As international students, our prior work experiences might not be in the UK. However, international references take times to cross reference for recruiters and they can become a challenge. Gaining work experiences in the UK help you to gain referees that can be easily contacted. Talk to your faculty members ahead of time and ensure that they are aware of the positions that you intend to apply for, so that they might be able to provide you with a reference. Everyone has demands on their time. Be kind!”
Mind the ATS reality check
“ATS is there to stay. Increasingly all applications are through a portal. It is important to review the job description and understand the ask and keywords more than anything else. ATS systems score your application and the decision to accept or reject is based on these scores rather than the CV. In the majority of the cases, the rejection is based on ATS evaluation and not a perusal of the CV. Therefore, master the ATS system rather than focusing on creating the best-looking CV.”
Certifications matter
“The skills required for an employee to be successful in their role demands largely three things: education (a formal college degree), work experience and certifications. Project management is skill universally expected from an employee, as are some basic analytical skills. Whether you are applying for a role of a reporter or a doctor or a consultant, you will have to be managing projects and working with data to drive performance or deliver results. IT skills are another key component. Companies use and develop tools and processes. Therefore, knowledge in relevant tools and evolving technology has become a must have. These are not always mentioned but they will become evident during the recruitment processes. Similarly, a career in finance will warrant relevant accountancy certifications and so on. So try to develop a long-term view of your career and what might be needed or expected.”
Pay attention to the transferable skills
“Most skills – stakeholder management, customer management, analytical and project management skills, book keeping, graphics, SEO – are transferable. Look at the job description and try to link it to your skills. You might just surprise yourself and find a career your never even thought off. Learning never stops. As you start your career it is important to remember that and continue to hone your skills as your progress through your career. Staying relevant is the secret to a long successful career no matter what you choose to pursue in life.”
Get the offer
“Getting the job and doing the job are two very different problems to solve. Clearing the recruitment process has its own nuances and expectations. Understand what the recruiters are expecting to see when they hire, and deliver the same to get the offer letter. Focus on that rather. Once you have secured the position then pivot to become successful in the role. Narrow down the scope to sharpen your interview skills, and eliminate the rest. Prepare for video interviews, tests, group activities. Reflect on past experiences, course correct. Talk to friends, coaches and more. Follow the opportunity, the rest will work itself out after you start in the new position. All the best!”
Thank you, Kasturi! If you have any feedback, or have any questions to the author of the blog post, or to the GRADskills team, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us using the following email: [email protected]