You have more control over your job search than you think. Avoid these common misconceptions that can unnecessarily prolong your job hunt.
Recruiters work on your behalf
Recruiters and headhunters work for their client (the company paying them to fill a vacancy) rather than for job seekers. They're often hired to find a candidate with specialist skills, or very specific experience.
If you're changing career, it's often more fruitful to source opportunities yourself. But if you have in-demand skills, recruiters working in your field should be an important element of your job-hunting strategy. Be clear what jobs or companies you're interested in, and take advice on how best to present your CV or prepare for an interview. Recruiters often have valuable inside knowledge of the companies and managers they work with.
Don't hound recruiters with phone calls, and treat them as you'd treat anyone in your network – by giving as well as asking. So rather than calling just to ask about suitable vacancies, pass along useful information, such as possible leads or names. Aim to build and maintain long-term relationships: a recruiter specialising in your industry may be able to place you at different times in your career.
Employers will understand your previous job and how it's relevant
High numbers of applications means that hiring managers scan CVs quickly to discard those not matching the requirements. Make sure yours isn't excluded by analysing it from your reader's perspective.
If you're changing industry or role, use the right terminology, and (if necessary) learn how to refocus your skills and experience to make them relevant.
Be clear what problems you solve, and what value you bring right from the beginning of your CV – don't bury your key selling points at the bottom of page two.
Your referees will provide a glowing reference
You don't need to provide references on your CV or to write "references available on request". But prepare references for the interview stage. Find ex-managers or colleagues who can vouch credibly for your professional skills and attitude. Send them a copy of the job description and your CV, and then discuss questions they might be asked about your personality and job performance; why you left and whether they'd employ you again. Priming your referees means they'll be better prepared and more convincing, but it also means you can iron out any potential discrepancies.
Interviews are all about the interviewer
As you're already a serious contender for the role, act the part of a confident professional and treat your interview as a two-way meeting, rather than a one-sided grilling. Your aim should also be to find out if the job or company is a good match by asking thoughtful questions that show your desire to make the right career choices. You'll be much more attractive than a candidate who seems desperate to take any available job.
Don't assume the interviewer will know you're keen to get the job. Employers prefer candidates who are enthusiastic about them and the opportunity, so if you want the job, ask for it at the end and explain why.
