Can’t Find A Job? Achieve Success: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Can’t Find A Job? It is tough to find a job if you are unemployed. The longer you’ve been out of work, the less likely it is that hiring managers advertising on a recruitment website will pick you up for an interview.

This article will tell you how to find jobs even when you are long-term unemployed, provide some ideas on what type of job might be best for your skillset, and finally help you achieve job security.

Can’t find a job? Let’s start with not only a step-by-step guide but also lots of great ideas!

Can’t Find A Job? How to find a job Step-by-Step Guide

I’m not saying this is easy, and if you found this page, you’re probably pretty frustrated and feel like you’ve tried a lot already. But you CAN improve. Every job seeker can find something on this page to improve.

So if you can’t find a job, bookmark this page and use it as a reference to adjust and improve until you do find a job.

Can’t Find A Job? How to Find a Job: A Step-by-Step Guide. Read on!

Step 1: Make A List Of Things You Could Possibly Do

This doesn’t have to be a list of jobs you’d like to do—just any job you feel capable of doing. This list is for you to know what your options are so that if it’s not the right time or place, you can figure out why and move on with a better plan of attack!

Step 2: Make A List Of Your Skills And Weaknesses

Can’t Find A Job? Firstly, start off with your skill set.

A skill is anything that you are good at, something that comes naturally to you. Skills could be things like typing quickly or being patient with children or people in general!

Next, make a list of your weaknesses. Weaknesses are the areas where you need improvement, and there is always room for this when it comes to finding jobs.

If one area needs improvement, then why not improve it so that in the future, when you go for a job interview, they will be impressed with your skills on your resume? If not, improve your resume with the help of a resume builder!

Step 3: Make A List Of Your Attributes

Attributes are things about yourself that you have to offer. If people were looking to buy a car, what attributes would make them choose one car over another? This is basically just saying, ‘What do you have to offer the world?’

Step 4: Make A List Of Your Achievements And Accomplishments

This is where you can show off. What are your achievements and accomplishments over the years, professionally or personally! Keep this list close because it could come in handy if someone asks about your experience, or list on your résumé. You will impress them by  showing off your achievements first!

Step 5: Look at online job forums or virtual job fairs for ideas

Some of the popular online job forums are:

  • LinkedIn Job Search
  • Indeed
  • Reed
  • Total Jobs
  • ZipRecruiter
  • Monster

Step 6: Talk to your friends and family about possible jobs

What better way is there than asking someone you know? This could be a friend or even a relative. Someone who knows you well enough to give some good advice on what type of job would suit you best!

Step 7: Decide On A Goal

Set yourself a time frame to find a job and think about what you want to achieve in that time. Maybe it’s getting one interview or two interviews, perhaps update your skills, get a suit or even reaching graduation for your college degree. Whatever your goal is make sure it is achievable!

Step 8: Write or improve your CV/ Resume

Your CV/Resume is the first thing a recruiter sees and is a great way to show off your skills and achievements. If you’re not sure how to go about writing your CV/Resume then there is a lot of help out there;

  • Great Resumes Fast
  • CV Pilots
  • Career One Stop
  • Resume.io
  • CV Owl

Step 9: Write or improve your cover letter

Can’t Find A Job? A cover letter is a great way to introduce your skills and achievements in more detail than just on the CV/Resume.

  • Resume-now
  • The CV Squad
  • Purple CV

Step 10: Consider becoming a freelancer

Do you have a skill that you could do from home or your own time? Can’t Find A Job?Freelancing is a great way to get experience and fit around other commitments. By doing some freelancing you can earn as you work and get further experience to put in your job applications.

If this sounds like something that would suit you then check out the following sites;

  • Upwork
  • People per Hour
  • Fiverr
  • Freelancer

Step 11: Look at what you like to do in your spare time, what are your hobbies?

What better way is there of finding out about yourself than looking at the things that make you happy! If it makes you happy then perhaps consider turning it into a job or even if not making money from this hobby maybe  it’s just something you can do for fun.

Step 12: Consider Upskilling

Look at what skills are required in your preferred jobs. If there is a skill required and you do not have the certificate, consider learning how to get that skill! There are a lot of training programs online which you can get qualified in almost any area. Check out;

  • Webflow
  • Creator Up
  • Skill Up 
  • International Open Academy
  • Cloud Credential Council
  • Digital Skills Academy
  • Pluralsight
  • Skillshare
  • Udemy
  • Coursera

Step 13: Consider Volunteering or Interning 

To get relevant work experience and a new skill to put on your CV/Resume, often it is worth your time volunteering. There are many ways you can get the experience without actually getting paid for it, sometimes companies will even pay you! Volunteering is becoming more popular as there has been some research that says volunteering makes us happier!

Can’t Find A Job? There are also several websites where companies place their internships; 

  • Indeed
  • Glassdoor
  • TotalJobs
  • UX Jobs Board

Step 14: Consider a career change 

A new career could be just the right fit for you. To access new opportunities do some training in the new industry or sector. Speak to potential bosses and start networking in the new sector. If you’ve been working in one job for years, perhaps trying a career coach or a tool like Career Key could help you with the job search process and unlock your true calling.

Step 15: Start looking for jobs and applying!

Start searching online, look at what is available in your area and don’t forget you can also search by industry sector too. This will give you a better idea of current vacancies which might be suited to you or not. You could even find there are some jobs that are related to your hobby! You don’t have to start with a full-time job, a part-time job could give you some relevant work experience and insight into if this is the right kind of job for you.

Step 16: See a Careers Advisor

You should never be afraid or embarrassed of asking if there is anything anyone can do to help you get back into the job market again. There are a lot of support networks out there and even local employers may have time where they are open to talking with people who are unemployed. A Careers Advisor or Careers Coach could  give you the best advice on how to get back into work.

Step 17: Think about going back to College or University 

Can’t Find A Job? Starting a degree or taking an apprenticeship course will  give you the skills and qualifications to get back into your career of choice. If you are thinking of fulfilling you professional ambitions and earning a really good salary but you’ve got qualifications or degrees which are not relevant to your dream job, maybe consider doing a course in the area!

There are plenty of online course options which mean you can fit this around your family and work commitments and get a degree from a prestigious university.

  • Future Learn
  • Virtual College
  • Open University
  • College Degrees

Step 18: Try a Temporary Job 

Once you have a job, it’s easier to get another! A great way to do this is by trying out a temporary role with an agency or temp companies who will not only give you some work experience but also advice on how to perform better in the workplace. If you are looking for temp jobs check out;

  • AppJobs
  • MonsterJobs
  • Care.com
  • Aerotek 
  • Working Mums UK Temp Jobs 
  • Temp Staff Agency UK

Step 19: Get your CV/Resume out there!

Can’t Find A Job? Get your CV/Resume out to as many employers and recruitment agencies as possible. Apply for jobs even if you are not 100% happy with the role, it’s better to have some money coming in than nothing at all!

For great ways to get your CV/Resume out there try;

  • Resume Robin
  • JuJu
  • Job Wire

Step 20: Connect on LinkedIn 

Can’t Find A Job? LinkedIn is a great way of networking within an industry sector and finding out about jobs. It’s easy to reach out with the right questions or talking points.

There’s even a Jobs section on LinkedIn where you can find the latest vacancies! The application process couldn’t be easier, with online resources to support you!

Step 21: Change Your Mindset 

If you’re out of work for some time, it can be hard to motivate yourself. Make sure that every day you do something which will help get back into the job market or improve your skills from volunteering/interning etc. Even a few minutes on a social media site could make a difference!

Step 22: Research Companies

If you’re looking for a specific job, it’s always good to have an idea of the companies or organisations which are hiring. You could even get in touch with them via social media and ask how they hire their staff! It also looks good in interview if you know something about the company, plus it means your CV/Resume will stand out more.

Step 23: Practice interview technique

You may not want to consider this step but practising interview technique could help you come across well in an actual job interview. You can practise with friends or family, ask them for feedback and take it on board!

Can’t Find A Job? Alternatively, you could go to a recruitment agency or careers advisor who can help prepare for interviews.

  • Interview Destiny
  • Interview Strategies

Step 24: If all else fails, don’t worry!

There are lots of support networks out there and even employers who will be able to help guide you in your job search or offer some guidance along the way. You may not find a job straight away but keep  going and you will find the right opportunity for your skills.

Barriers to Re-Entering the Workforce

Negotiation of Job Terms

The negotiation of job terms after a match has been identified can influence the employer surplus and affect the level of unemployment.2 The terms are often offered on a strict take-it-or-leave-it basis, which may limit job seekers’ ability to negotiate.

Familiarity and Reputation of Employers

Job seekers’ familiarity with employers and their reputation significantly influence their motivation to apply for jobs and seek additional information about companies.3

Search Effort and Investment

Job seekers may face barriers in their search efforts, such as underinvestment in searching for work and procrastination.4

Challenges Faced by Young Job Seekers

Young job seekers may face frustrations related to employers’ expectations of relevant work experience, being required to apply for jobs not aligned with their career aspirations, and personal factors impacting their ability to present themselves confidently to prospective employers.5

Age Discrimination

Older job seekers may face age-related barriers to securing employment, requiring age-specific support to overcome.6 Social support, coping strategies, and detailed feedback can facilitate the job search process for older individuals.

Self-Perceived Employability

Many people under-estimate the skills they have to find and stay in work. Rothwell and Arnold7 developed a self-report measure of individuals’ perceived employability.

Ideas to Get Back into the Workforce

Managing mood and motivation, seeking feedback/help, and engaging in self-reflection, or learning a new skill are recommended ways to improve your success in re-entering the workforce.

Easy to get job ideas include;

  1. Delivery driver
  2. Bookeeping
  3. Customer Service Agent 
  4. Waiter/Waitress (Casual Work) 
  5. Retail Assistant 
  6. Administrator 
  7. IT Support Analyst (Tech Job) 
  8. Manager
  9. Personal Assistant 
  10. Industrial Cleaner (Night Job) 
  11. Security Guard (Casual Work) 
  12. Personal Trainer
  13. Receptionist
  14. Dog walker
  15. Nanny/Babysitter
  16. Social Media Manager
  17. Office Manager
  18. Beautician
  19. Estate Agent

FAQs

How can I make money if I can’t find a job?

If you’re not looking for a job, but still need an income try online surveys/focus groups on sites like; 

If you can’t find a job  right away, you can look at ways to make money from home and become self-employed. There are lots of websites out there which will help you start your own business and make some money!

  • Opinion Outpost
  • Focus Pointe Global
  • Swag Bucks
  • Survey Junkie
  • You can also sell items on  sites like eBay and Amazon.
  • Or deliver food with Deliveroo, JustEat or GrubHub.

What if I don’t want to work anymore?

It’s a tough situation to be in but there are lots of ways you can make money even if you don’t want to work anymore. There is always the option of getting your finances back on track and trying other income producing methods like starting up an online business. 

What are transferable skills?

Transferable skills are also called ‘portable skills’ and they refer to the things you can bring with you from job to job. These include your experience, training, education level etc., so it could be something like time management at work or leadership ability in a previous role.

  • Organisational skills
  • IT skills
  • Communication skills
  • Teamwork skills
  • Leadership skills
  • Numeracy (maths) and literacy (reading, writing etc.)

Can I get benefits while looking for another job?

Yes, you can get benefits while looking for another job. You will need to be actively seeking work and show proof of this when filling out a claim through the Jobcentre Plus or at your local Social Security Department office in person.

What are some good jobs that come with flexible hours?

Can’t Find A Job? If you want to go back into work but  want to work flexible hours, your best bet is to look at jobs which are part-time or casual. You can still apply for full time roles but it may not be possible with the hours you’re looking for.

Some examples of these types of jobs include: 

  • Waitress/Waiter (Casual) 
  • Retail Assistant 
  • Administrator (Casual) 
  • Customer Service Agent (Part-time/Evenings Only) 
  • Sales Associate (Casual or Part Time) 
  • Receptionist (Part time/Afternoons only, Casual etc.) 
  • Nanny / Babysitter (Temporary Work)

Is it harder to find a job when unemployed?

Yes, it is harder to find a job when unemployed. Employers are less likely to hire someone who has been out of work for an extended period of time because they may worry you won’t stay in the role long-term or that your skills have atrophied. 

Why is finding a job so difficult?

It can be difficult to find a job because there are lots of people out there who want the same roles you do. Employers also have specific requirements for certain jobs and they may not hire someone just because they don’t meet all their criteria, even if  they would be good at the role in other ways.

What is considered a long time out of work?

If you’ve been unemployed for more than six months, it can be considered a long time. Employers will think that something is wrong with your skills or experience if they see gaps in your resume this big. It may also indicate to them that there are other problems like poor references and motivation, which could affect your performance at work.

What is meant by the hidden job market?

The hidden job market refers to the jobs that aren’t advertised and instead filled by people who know someone in HR or another well-connected member of staff. This is why it can be beneficial to network with current employees at companies you would like to work for because they could help put your name forward and give you a leg up on the competition.

What is a temp agency?

A temporary employment agency is an organization that recruits and hires people on behalf of companies who need  extra staff for a short period of time. This is often used as a stepping stone to permanent jobs because companies can see how well you perform and if they like what they see, offer you the role permanently themselves.

What types of temp agencies are there?

There are all sorts of temporary employment agencies out there depending on your industry and skillset.

Some examples include:

  • Admin temps 
  • Call center temps 
  • Construction industry temp workers 
  • Engineering and technical agency staff (IT, CAD etc.)
  • Retail agency temps (for example covering for people who are on holiday) 

Often, temporary work can develop into permanent employment and you can make a lot of money working through agencies. It’s also easier to get temp jobs than it is finding permanent ones, so this route could be an ideal way for some people who are currently unemployed to build up their work history again.

In Conclusion

My advice is to not give up! You will find the right job for you eventually. Keep going and don’t let anything get in your way. Good luck.

References

  1. Corsetto, L. and Cooper, S. (2022). Reducing Search Barriers For Job Seekers. https://doi.org/10.31485/pi.2234.2022
  2. Hall, R. and Milgrom, P. (2008). The Limited Influence Of Unemployment On the Wage Bargain. American Economic Review, 4(98), 1653-1674. https://doi.org/10.1257/aer.98.4.1653
  3. Rothwell, A. and Arnold, J. (2007). Self‐perceived Employability: Development and Validation Of A Scale. Personnel Review, 1(36), 23-41. https://doi.org/10.1108/00483480710716704
  4. Rothwell, A. and Arnold, J. (2007). Self‐perceived Employability: Development and Validation Of A Scale. Personnel Review, 1(36), 23-41. https://doi.org/10.1108/00483480710716704
  5. Moore, K. N. (2019). The Quest For Sustainable Employment: Challenges Faced By Young People During the Job‐search Process. Australian Journal of Social Issues, 1(54), 91-108. https://doi.org/10.1002/ajs4
  6. Twumasi, R. and Haslam, C. (2021). Preceived Age Descrimination In the Job Search Process In Later Life. https://doi.org/10.31234/osf.io/avmtd
  7. Rothwell, A. and Arnold, J. (2007). Self‐perceived Employability: Development and Validation Of A Scale. Personnel Review, 1(36), 23-41. https://doi.org/10.1108/00483480710716704.

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