HOW TO FIND, APPLY, AND INTERVIEW FOR YOUR PERFECT SOCIAL WORK ROLE
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hether you’re a seasoned social worker looking to make a change, or move up the ladder, or a student social worker looking to secure that all-important first job as an NQSW, this series - written by social work manager Tilly Baden - will guide you through the daunting process of searching for the right job, making the perfect application, and acing the interview.
to consider working as an agency or independent social worker. If you are looking to make the leap from a permanent role to an agency role, do your research. Your hourly wage may be higher as a locum, but there are other costs to consider - professional indemnity insurance, umbrella company fees, pension, training costs, and different tax rates. There will be more flexibility but more uncertainty.
FINDING THE RIGHT JOB
Whichever route you choose, it’s a good idea to speak with social workers who are already working in that way.
The prospect of finding a new job can be daunting, so break things down into bitesize chunks to make the process feel more manageable. Create a checklist of your personal requirements. It’s important to keep an open mind, but if you have a strong affinity to an area of practice, that’s where you should focus your energy. Ask yourself: do I want to work for a local authority, or in the charity or private sectors? You may also want
Are you looking to work in an urban or rural environment? How long would you be willing to commute? Are you thinking of moving? Also, think about the type of work you prefer, and the sort of people you prefer to work with. Do you like longterm work, where you can build relationships over time? If so, a community or locality team may suit you best. Or do you prefer a faster paced setting, helping people in crisis?
If so, a hospital or assessment team might be more suitable. Some roles will naturally be more suited to those who wish to work parttime, or remotely, whereas other roles are less flexible. These things may steer your job search. Once you have created your wish list, it’s time to start the search. If you have a particular LA or company in mind, look at their website for a list of current vacancies, or use a generic jobsite. If a job sounds interesting, read the organisation’s website carefully, as it can tell you so much about their culture and ethos. What services do they offer? Who are their partner organisations? Do they offer meet and greets with their current staff? Look up the directors, executives, and principal social workers. Look at publicly available information such as finances and budgets. If an organisation is inadequate or in special measures, it doesn’t mean you
