Bag one of the half a million jobs up for grabs with our top tips

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WHETHER you are out of work due to the pandemic or want to change career, people across the country are starting their job hunt this weekend.

Despite the coronavirus crisis pushing the jobless total up to 4.9 per cent, the latest figures also show an increase in the number of vacancies, with more than half a million roles now up for grabs.

The Government’s Plan For Jobs includes training in growing industries, such as construction and green energy

December saw 2020’s busiest week for job postings, with 1.4million ads running across the UK, according to the Recruitment & Employment Confederation.

Employment minister Mims Davies said: “It’s has been a tough time for jobseekers. But with a vaccine rolling out and a rise in vacancies, there is hope for 2021.”

To help you back into work, we have teamed up with employment expert Steve McCall, the Jobcentre Plus manager for Northumberland and Tyne and Wear. 

He said: “We are working with people to help them realise there are a roles they can move into with the skills they already have. We’re seeing people using their skills to transfer into new sectors.

“Opportunities in the public sector, such as non-clinical roles in the NHS, jobs in the civil service and vacancies in schools have seen many jobseekers successfully switch careers.”

Spot the vacancies: Think about “hidden vacancies”. These jobs might not be what you are initially looking for but could be a great match for your skillset. Write down your talents and consider how they might fit with a new role.

Tailor each CV: Do not just copy and paste your CV or application. To boost chances, use key words from the job ad to show how you can hit the main skills for each role.

Get social: Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook and other social media sites are great places to find out who is hiring. Type in @JCPJobsPlusMore to find a list of local Jobcentre Twitter pages and the latest roles on offer.

Temp it: Lots of firms are offering people three to six months’ work and plenty of charities are seeking volunteers. This can give you the experience to help your job hunt.

Get the right help: There is support via the Government’s Plan For Jobs. This includes training in growing industries, such as construction and green energy, through the Job Entry Targeted Support scheme, and work experience on a sector-based Work Academy Programme. Contact your local Jobcentre Plus work coach or see jobhelp.campaign.gov.uk. 

Tasks for teens 

TEENAGERS have been hit hard by Covid – but one company is looking to hire people aged between 16 and 19.

Serve Legal employs a workforce of teens to check if pubs, clubs, retailers and online stores are selling age-restricted products such as alcohol, cigarettes and knives. The firm is taking on 500 new recruits, known as auditors.

Roles are fully flexible and can fit around apprenticeships, education or other jobs. You are paid the Living Wage via PAYE.

To apply for a job, visit servelegal.co.uk/apply


jobspot

LEE MARLEY BRICKWORK has 75 vacancies, for bricklayers, scaffolders, apprentices and skilled labourers. For more details, email [email protected]


The great escape

Workers have already booked their long-haul breaks to destinations such as Dubai for 2021

THE Covid vaccine roll-out has seen a surge in holiday bookings for 2021.

Employees have already booked an average of ten days’ leave from work, as they opt for long-haul breaks to destinations such as Dubai, rather than short city breaks in Europe, data from BrightHR shows. Alan Price, CEO of BrightHR, said: “After a tough 2020, employers should encourage staff to make the most of their annual leave, as time off work can be hugely beneficial for employees to rest and refocus their minds.”


jobspot

VIDA HEALTHCARE is recruiting for patient support team members, lead practice nurses and a PA. See vidahealthcare.nhs.uk/careers


Use hol to get ahead

TO HIT 2021 running in your new job hunt, career coach Mel Barclay from LHH.com advises using the holidays to get ahead. 

She says: “It’s important to keep up momentum. This is a chance for you to be really proactive.”

Mel Barclay’s top tips to hit 2021 running in your new job hunt

Here are her top tips . . . 

  1. REVIEW AND REFLECT: Take a look at your job search – what is working, what is not and where you have had success. Do you need to rethink your strategy?
  2. STAY CONNECTED: Send a cheery New Year message to your former colleagues, or LinkedIn contacts, and join online groups in your professional area.
    Mention you are on the hunt for a new job and ask who they can connect you with.
  1. BRIDGE THE GAP: Highlight areas where you want to learn new skills. Showing you are continuing to develop professionally is seen positively by employers.
  2. TALK TO RECRUITERS: Check in with ones you have spoken with in 2020, or who have contacted you in the past. 
  3. BE PROACTIVE: Set your goals and work backwards from them to plan your steps. Some employers post jobs before the holidays end, so get ahead by applying early.

GOT a story? RING HOAR on 0207 782 4104 or WHATSAPP on 07423720250 or EMAIL [email protected]