Forums Forums Wirral Information Jobs - Training Seeking Work in the IT Sector 10 Years Experience

I believe that part of finding work in IT is deciding where to pitch yourself. In my experience, it's best to focus your efforts on individul jobs. Don't go with the approach "If I throw enough shit at the wall, something will stick". Give each application the attention it deserves.

Taylor your CV for each individual job that you apply for and always attach a covering letter with a brief summary of why you think you are suitable for the role.

Always pay close attention to what the employer is asking you to do to apply; if they want an application form filling in, then do it and don't send your CV if it's not being asked for.

Consider the person reading the applications. I had to sift through over 100 one weekend so try not to waffle on. Use bullet points to highlight things. Remember that people may skim read so it's important to make the important bits stand out. Use examples of previous work where necessary.

Get yourself a system together as you may attend a number of interviews. I create folders for each job I apply for and put all the info; job advert, any applications I've downloaded and any research I've done for the role. It's important to do this as you may get called to interview and not remember what you've applied for.

Seek feedback wherever you can and make a note of what the person has said. I like to apply for some roles to get back into the mood of job hunting, I'll hash a few interviews up to get confidence to apply for better roles.

General confidence is a must so I try to get my girlfriend to ask me questions that I might expect in an interview.

Good point Neil.

Try getting that sort of money for cutting metal, Most of the above numbered points can be applied to any jobs these days.

Yes, it does make you think.

One of the things that I've noticed that is different is the ability to kick up fuss and being vocal when you don't agree with something. Perm staff can do this easily and raise objections, it is extermely unwise for contractors to do likewise. Many contractors prefer to raise objections by proxy, influencing another perm member of staff.

Contracting aint for everyone, but it will all depend on your outlook towards work.