The job market is incredibly competitive, and so it’s important to stand out from the crowd when you’re looking to change careers or snag a new role. While education and experience will always be the key things employers look for, there are lots of other areas you can improve on to make yourself more employable than the next candidate. Here are some ideas.
Write a blog
Blogging is something that looks impressive to employers, it shows them that you have a range of skills and also how you’ve been able to build up a site from nothing. Regular posting over a number of years shows that you’re consistent, networking and promotion across social media shows you can manage these accounts on a professional level. Your content can show them that you’re knowledgeable in your field, and that you’re a proficient writer. There are a range of soft skills such as the ability to research quickly and efficiently, knowing how to write for an audience and how to use a DSLR camera with Photoshop, that many employers will value.
Learn to drive
Being able to drive is a great skill to have, not only does it benefit you in your everyday life but it can make you more employable too. You can get to workplaces that public transport doesn’t easily reach, and certain jobs will require a license. If you don’t already, work on getting your driver’s license, you can then find used cars at good prices at sites like https://www.tradecarsandcommercials.co.uk/used/newcastle. Be sure to include on your CV that you have a license and access to your own car.
Go to a class or local group
Improving your education is an obvious move when you’re looking to improve your employability, however, improving your skills doesn’t necessarily have to be academic. Even ‘fun’ things like baking, flower arranging, language classes, music classes and more can all provide you with skills which are transferable. From precision to following instructions to teamwork to memory.
Try a new hobby
Your hobbies can tell an employer a lot about skills you wouldn’t necessarily think to mention on your CV. For example, if the type of job you want relies heavily on teamwork, you could take up a team sport or join a club where you’re working with other people. If it requires working under pressure, you could take up a competitive sport. The best thing about hobbies is they’re fun and enjoyable, you improve yourself and build your skills without even thinking about it as you’re too busy having a good time.
Do some voluntary work
If you’re hoping to change careers and work in a brand new job sector then you’ll have no experience at all which means finding a job can be difficult. The way you can get around this is by doing some voluntary work. This allows you to gain the skills you need and get some experience in the new workplace, and also show to employers that you’re serious about working in this sector.
