Target your job search

Breaking into Competitive Industry Sectors

Some industry sectors are notoriously difficult to break into, so much so that even an expertly produced CV might not be enough to get you an interview with your dream company. In general, it is the industries that are the most competitive, such as investment banking or the legal profession, which tend to be particularly selective during the recruitment process. So, in order to be successful against other candidates for the most sought-after positions, it can be of great advantage to target your job search carefully whist also making sure that your CV really is exceptional.

Be Realistic…

Your job search will be more efficient, and ultimately more fruitful, if you focus primarily on the positions that you are most suited to. In addition, many industries have different divisions, such as merger & acquisitions or commercial law, which can be harder gain entry to than other divisions, and you need to make sure that you try to concentrate on those you have the right qualities for. If you are using a recruitment consultant to help you in your job search, they will help to advise you on the level of position that you should be focusing on and, bearing in mind that they will be working on commission, they are pretty much guaranteed to put you forward for roles you stand a good chance of being offered.

But Keep Your Eye on the Future

Just because you may not be ready to apply for the top job in the market-leading firm that everybody wants to work in, it doesn’t have to mean that you won’t get there some day. So focus on your ideal job, then perhaps apply for jobs just below this level so that you can aim to progress towards your career aspirations in the future.

Do Your Homework

There are a wide range of resources that you can use to find out about the companies you may wish to target and this research will enable you to establish exactly what type of person they employ. You should then be able to look at your own CV and decide whether or not you are that person.

Knowing about the company before you apply can help you to focus your CV or application form accordingly, by really highlighting the skills, attributes and achievements that will attract the attention of the recruiter. And, if you do reach the interview stage, you will probably find this knowledge invaluable.

Keep Your Options Open

Although it is important to focus your job search to enable you to maximise your potential, it is inadvisable to be so blinkered that you restrict your chances of employment. Once again, remember that you can always progress to your dream job in the future even if it is just out of reach right now.

Hugh Karseras is a Director with a major City bank. He is the author of From New Recruit to High Flyer, published by Kogan Page, paperback, 208 pages, £9.99.

To receive a 10% reduction on the cover price readers should go to www.kogan-page.co.uk and add the book to their basket, entering coupon code MF312 at the checkout.

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