Finding a job these days is possibly more difficult than ever. Competition is rife, vacancies are scarce and funding is often low.

In our desperation to secure work, we therefore tend to feel obliged to accept the first job on offer.

It’s an understandable temptation, but one we should certainly try to resist if we want to feel confident about taking on a job that is just right.

Many a position may seem appropriate at first glance, but gaining a glimpse into the company culture is highly recommended for a real taste of what life might be like behind closed company doors.

This can be as simple as talking to staff, past or present, about the culture of the organisation or their personal experiences within it. It may seem off the wall to approach strangers in this manner, however, a casual chat to a receptionist or a call-out on social media about contacts familiar with the company in question can unearth a surprising amount of information.

Perhaps management is known for it’s unorthodox approaches. It could be that the company is in financial trouble or maybe they are thriving and at the top of their game. Knowing such information will contribute to an informed decision about whether you see yourself as part of the team.

You might find that online research reveals further helpful insight including the low down on company policies, staff profiles, business history, client relationships and reputation.

The frequency of staff turnover can be a significant indication of workplace contentment, security and stability where employees are concerned. Companies who are continually having to replace staff are to be avoided, as this generally infers that conditions are not favourable.

What some candidates tend to forget is the opportunity the job interview presents. It is a two-way street after all, where questions should be asked from both sides. It is the perfect time to find out more specific company and team details that otherwise may not be apparent.

Remember – the position needs to be sold to you as much as you need to be sold to the position.

Have you been sending your CV out religiously with few leads? Whether you’re trying to land your first job, have been unemployed for some time, or are thinking about switching careers, it’s tough to stand out in the current economic climate. It’s not uncommon to spend months on a job search, but you can boost your chances of a swift and fruitful hunt by keeping the following tips in mind.

Image Source: Julie Walraven/Flickr

1. Write original cover letters. 

When you’re applying for multiple jobs a week, it’s hard to make each application stand out from the others. However, you’ll greatly improve your chances of getting the job by taking the time to research each company and think about why you might actually be a good fit. Generic cover letters and CVs are a big turnoff to recruiters, because they don’t show that you are willing to go the extra mile and put in the effort to introduce yourself. Your cover letter is particularly important, because it’s your chance to show just why you’re different from other candidates. Templates are tempting when you’re just starting out, but use them sparingly.

2. Upgrade your skills. 

If you’re interested in switching careers or are new to the work force, it’s a good idea to get the basic training that will help you show you can handle the job. This may involve online courses or continuing education that work into your schedule before you start your hunt. You can find a wide range of courses at NowLearning AU, which may fit your career goals. Boosting your education level shows recruiters that you’re a self-starter who’s willing to take initiative.

3. Build your personal brand online.  

It’s essential to have a strong digital presence these days, as many hiring managers look at your social media profiles and blog along with your CV. Curate your online presence carefully with this in mind. Your digital footprint allows you to show off your talents, interests, and background. Be sure to take a careful look at what your profiles say about you. Online networking through sites like LinkedIn can also yield new job leads.

4. Don’t let rejections discourage you. 

Even the most qualified candidates for the job are going to get rejected a few times along the way. Rejection is part of the job search process, so don’t get discouraged when it happens to you. It simply means that an employer didn’t think that you would be a good fit for the company, but it doesn’t mean that there isn’t a good fit out there for you.

5. Consider temporary work or internships. 

When you’re breaking into an industry, a good first step to get your foot in the door is through an internship or temp job. Temp work is often seen as a last resort, but it allows you to earn money while you learn new skills. Many temp jobs and internships eventually turn into full-time positions, because the employer has seen what you’re capable of.

The key is to look at your job search as a full-time job in itself. Follow every lead, carefully craft every cover letter individually, and upgrade your qualifications if necessary. Give your all and you’ll be certain to find an employer who’s the best fit for you.

From 17 October 2014, the job search and alert functionality provided at www.mycareer.com.au will be migrated to Adzuna.

Adzuna is a job search engine which makes it easier to find the right job for you. Adzuna searches thousands of websites and brings together hundreds of thousands of ads so you can find them all in one place. Adzuna has powerful search, insightful market data and social connections and offers a superior user experience.

So, you can do most of your work in your sleep, you’re bored beyond all reason and you know all the office jokes before they’ve even been uttered? Could it be time to leave your job?

Getting to the top of your game in what you do is the ultimate goal for most people. Yet, no matter how hard you’ve worked to master your position or how long you’ve spent getting there, it’s very rare that you should stay put from then on, stagnating for years to come.

This is not to say you should bolt for the door the moment you feel comfortable. After all, there are always more unexpected lessons to be learned and potential curly events to unfold, so you need to give yourself the chance to breathe and to experience some longevity.

However, if you’re noticing it’s months since you’ve been challenged in any respect and you’re actually bored by what you are doing, then it might be time to start thinking about moving on.

You might find your ideas aren’t being noticed anymore – or the contrary – they are used no matter how predictable and flat they seem to you.

Perhaps you are starting to feel that you’re taken for granted, no longer being heard, expected to do others jobs for them or work ridiculous hours without compensation.

One particular giveaway that it’s time to jump ship is when bad habits have formed within the organisation whereby cliques are rife, gossiping is the norm and games are being played. It’s a sign most others are also bored and that their focus is not where it should be. Whatever you do, don’t let yourself become entangled in such inane behaviour as it will put your work and professional image at risk.

In any case, trust your instincts. You’ll know when work has become a drag or the environment is toxic. Just don’t quit prematurely. You’ve earned the right to bask in some of the glory of being great at what you’re doing – you should at least enjoy it for as long as is healthy.

By Chloe Abotomey

You know what you need to do, you may even know exactly how you’re going to do it, but it still it doesn’t get done, sound familiar?

We have all experienced the unproductive attitude coming from lack of motivation. With fear and laziness being the most universal human characteristics who could blame us. But what sets apart those who succeed is the ability to self motivate. These tips for self motivation will increase your ability to thrive in any environment, improve your mood, work ethic and overall outlook.

Celebrate and reward small achievements. By continually recognising your good work you’re more likely to be encouraged to continue your efforts.

Find passion in what you do. Passionate people often want to do their best so finding enjoyment in your work is important for maximum productivity and happiness.

Breakdown large chunks of work into manageable sections to prevent becoming overwhelmed. By dividing big tasks into smaller ones, and focus on completing just one task at a time a big task will not seem as daunting. You’ll be surprised how much you can do if you take it one step at a time.

Stay positive. It’s almost impossible to get motivated when you’re feeling down. So shake off your negativity by listening to your favourite music or go for a walk or run.

Organise your workspace. A tidy desk or office is much more inviting than a workplace crammed with folders that are no longer relevant and papers two years old.

Schedule your day to help get through all that needs to be done. Make a to-do list and stick to it.

Work with a colleague to spur each other on. Surround yourself with people who have a strong work ethic and positive outlook to help motivate you to work hard when you’d normally quit.

Visualize the outcome. Remember why you are tackling the task and make a list of reasons why achieving your goals are important to you. You can look at if you begin to feel overwhelmed.

Fuel your body right. Instead of over stimulating your body with excess caffeine from coffee
and energy drinks, try eating a balanced meal with protein and low GI carbohydrates to release energy slowly.

Just do it. Getting started is often the hardest part so plan to just do 20 mins of the task at hand
and more often than not you’ll find you do more.

Laying claim to the best resume on earth will end up meaning very little if you’re a bag of nerves during your interview.

We all get nervous – and it’s particularly natural in a job interview. However, letting your nerves interfere and take the whole show over is something that can and should be avoided.

Much of the key to quashing those nerves is in the lead up to the interview. For example, if you do your research and know the background to the organisation and have a good handle on the position description, then you won’t be so afraid of questions you’re unprepared for. You’re less likely to hit stumbling blocks or feel inadequate – all of which would ordinarily be recipes for disaster.

Ensure you freshen up and fuel up prior to the big moment. A nutritious, balanced meal that is not too heavy (avoid pasta, for example) will go a long way in keeping your mental functioning at peak and your energy levels stable. Avoid too much coffee as it may over stimulate you and can lead to anxiety. Freshening up with a relaxing bath or hot shower can steady your mind and your nerves.

Try to clear your mind and calm your nerves with some relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation and mindfulness exercises – all of which train the breath to slow, focus and regroup, having an overall calming effect and keeping you in the present moment as opposed to running off with those nerves.

Know your worth. Keep in mind that you’ve made it as far as an interview for a reason. You obviously have skills or prior experience that appeal to the organisation so they are already interested in you and who knows? You might be the favourite applicant. Remember it’s not only a question of whether they want you, but also whether you want them. So always know your worth and strengths – and sell yourself accordingly.

Regardless of how you feel the interview went, it’s always a good idea to ask for feedback which can assist you for future applications.