What to do when you can’t get a Job Interview

By GERARD BROWNE Development officer, IRD Duhallow

Most advice around job searching links back to when you get inside the door for an interview. Sometimes you can’t even get an interview and that can be very demoralising. Here are five tips on what to do if you find yourself in this situation.

1. Look after yourself:

Take a break from the computer and job searching and do something you like doing. Ensure you’re getting enough sleep and look at linking in with supportive friends and family.

2. Review your CV:

Spending time away from your CV can allow you to come at it with fresh eyes. Check that all your contact details are up to date. Send it to a friend to review. Ask yourself is it clearly laid out and does it sell your skills well. Look at including a personal statement that front loads your suitability for the particular job that you are applying for.

3. Network:

Getting out and networking is not easy to do, especially if your work search activities have not been going well. Look for Industry events; there are many general ones that crop up over the course of the year, use these to find more focused opportunities in your particular area. Being told to join a club might be the last thing some people might want to hear but being involved in a club can open up good networking opportunities and be a nice way of doing something that you like. Volunteering for a short period of time, without taking on too much (only agree to doing what you feel you are currently capable of) can be a great way of broadening your network.

4. Find a mentor:

One of the best things to do is to find someone in your particular industry that can be a help to you. Their opinion is something to be valued and they might be able to point you in the right direction. I found my mentor through volunteering, and it saved me at least five years in career development. Other ways to find one could be reaching out on social media and asking to link in for a coffee. The worst that can happen is that they might say no.

5. Use your social welfare supports to your advantage:

If you are new to an area the idea of joining a club or volunteering might be the last thing you feel like doing so the next best thing is to use your current social welfare supports to your advantage. Enquire about Community Employment (CE) and Tús, Local Area Employment Services (LAES) schemes. Explore self-referral options to these programmes. Enquire at your local office about the Training Support Grant (TSG) as it may be available to assist you in upskilling. The main thing is that you will be engaging with people who will help you find work, and improve your job seeking skills.

For tailored job centre advice, contact Gerard on 029 60633 or Gerard.Browne@irdduhallow.com