It depends on numerous factors and situations; although it can be a subjective question, we want to guide you with simple steps you can follow to achieve it.

First of all, you need to acknowledge that this process requires you to be organised and perseverant. Having that in mind, we designed a printable handbook for you to help you track your job-seeking process:

The EllisKnight Handbook: "How to get a job quickly" contains useful checklists and worksheets that will help you to get organised and ready to start your job hunt:

• • → Career goals worksheet.
  • → Job seeking checklist.
  • → UK job board list.
  • → Job application tracker.
  • → Video interview checklist.
  • → Face-to-face interview checklist.
  • → Notes.

Recommendations:

 Sit down, get comfortable and get a cup of coffee; then think about your objective. What do you want? Some people might be seeking a new challenge and to climb further up the career ladder. Some, on the other hand, might just be looking to gain more experience in a particular field; others might need an industry change or even a complete career change. 

Once you have a clear idea of the path you want to take in your professional career, write it down.

 Build or update your CV. If you don't have one, download our pre-made template in Word format. 

If you already have a CV, take your time to review details: can you shorten it to two pages maximum? Are you enlisting the skills you gained on your last job? Are you personalising it for the job you want? Please read "Writing a great CV: Six key recommendations" for more details.

 Personalise your Cover Letter. Try to personalise all the cover letters you send to your prospective employer; this shows a significant interest from your part.

 Brand yourself online on Linkedin. First of all, why Linkedin? Most companies have a Linkedin profile; recruiters make candidate searches there, and you can apply directly for jobs as it has a built-in job board.

Keep your profile updated and get active on it, expand your connections, reconnect with people you've worked for and get some recommendations from your previous employers.

The benefit of this social media channel is that you have the control of how you want the recruiters to see you and the chance to showcase your Certificates, Diplomas, voluntary work and endorsements. Let's say it's an interactive CV.

 Register on Job Boards. One of the most annoying things when applying for jobs is registering on too many websites, as it takes a lot of time to do so.

Although we would love to tell you this is not necessary, there is no other way to upload or update your data. Yet, we can help you with a simple tip that will save you a lot of time: write your CV in Word format on a simple design. This will let you easily copy-paste your contact details, experience, education, and any other information you need to write on the job board forms.

 Register on Recruitment Agencies. Depending on the agency you choose, they will give you different ways to communicate their available jobs. At EllisKnight International Recruitment, when you register online, you can enjoy the following benefits:

• • Jobs notifications. Sent directly to your email based on your search criteria. Never miss a job!
  • Option to upload your CV and create a profile.
  • Quick Apply. Fast and straightforward job applications using your saved CV.
  • Job application history - keep track of your previous activity and follow up.

 Set up job alerts. All job boards give you the option for 'opt-in' email alerts with jobs you are interested in apply. On top of that, on EllisKnight website, you can set it up in three simple steps:

• • Log in to your profile.
  • On the main menu, click on "Job Alerts".
  • It will take you to a form where you can personalise, with detail, what kind of vacancies you want to receive.

 Track applications and follow up. Use a notebook, create a document on your computer or create a list on your phone/tablet to track every application you make.

When you are in the hunt, is easy to get lost on job applications made directly to companies, job boards, recruitment agencies, social media, voice messages or even on direct phone calls from recruiters that found your CV. Just write the vacancy name, company, recruiter name and date.

 Tap into your network. Always make sure to let previous employers, ex-colleagues, friends and family members know you are looking for a new job opportunity. They might know someone who has the perfect vacancy for you.

 Practice interviewing. Every interview is different, but there are frequent topics that you can practice and can be applied to almost any industry or job:

• • Think about 3 strengths you have.
  • Can you list 3 weaknesses?
    • Complete the previous answer with a positive twist or how you would look to use them as an opportunity to grow or develop.
  • Think about what you would bring to the company to help achieve its objectives?
  • Do your research, know the company's industry, the service or product they're offering, who the CEO is, values and mission. Study their website.
  • Ask at least one question to the interviewer.

 Don't stop your search. It's hard to keep motivated when you have been searching for a few days or weeks, especially if you've been rejected a few times. DON'T GIVE UP!

Overall, the common factor with being successful at apply for jobs is... don't stop applying!

Dedicate at least 1 or 2 hours every day on your search, and don't forget to use your checklist and notebook. It sounds too simple; however, it will be gratifying when you see the results and feel your confidence grow as you start to make and receive more calls, replying to emails and being in control of your search and interview process.

Don't forget to download your handbook! Find it at the end of the article (below the tags section).

Do you have any questions? or feedback? Would you like us to write about a particular topic related to job-hunting?

Please don't hesitate in getting in touch with us: Send us an email to info@ellisknight.com