At the start of October the latest figures for UK unemployment were released. The number now stands just shy of 2.5million, the highest level since 1997. Experts have, however, pointed out that the increase from the last quarter, 88,000, is the lowest level since July 2008.

Whilst some have heralded these figures as encouraging and proof that the recession is easing, it doesnt make it any easier for the 2.47 million people who are looking for work.

What can you do if youre looking for a job? Well, first of all, you have to spread your net as wide as possible, even with record numbers of unemployed there are a lot of jobs available, its just the competition is stiffer than ever before.

Dont stop there though, the wider you spread the net, the more chance you will have of finding a job. Look at newspaper jobs sections, such as the Guardians, and online search engines. The more jobs you look at, the more experience you will get with interviewing and applications, and the quicker you will find yourself work.

Another thing that you must do is polish your CV. In a pile of application forms and CVs, you need to make yours stand out. Make sure that its clear and well presented, if possible have a slight amount of colour so that it stands out (not garish colours, obviously, but a little colour can catch the eye) and make sure that it highlights all of your skills.

You should do your best to highlight all your skills, even if you dont think that they are relevant or worthwhile. Employers all want people who they know will be conscientious, organised, good at working in teams, as well as hopefully having relevant job experience. If your CV doesnt demonstrate these basic attributes you should rewrite it to make sure that it does.

Another thing that you could consider is signing on with recruitment agencies. Many agencies have a lot of people on their books all going for not many jobs, however, recruitment agencies dont charge to sign on, and it cant hurt your chances.

As you apply for jobs, which can be a time consuming process, if you can, try and support your skills. If there is any temporary work experience available locally, why not apply for it? You may not get paid much, or at all, but it may provide you with relevant experience and employers will look positively on those who have shown the initiative and motivation to keep working, even if they have been unsuccessful at finding full time posts.

Add Your Picture

Article Submitted By: ElizabethGardner
This Article Has Been Read 153 Times

---

Remember: The article body, title, author bio and links may not be changed or removed. By publishing this article, you agree to all the terms in our Terms of Service.
Get the HTML for reprinting the article to your site

Rating: Not yet rated

--Choose-- 0 1 2 3 4 5

It Doesn't Matter Where You Live, Customer Service Jobs Are Important To Every Business

Sign Up With An IT Recruitment Agency

Customer Service Jobs Come In All Different Shapes And Forms

What It Takes To Become An HVAC Professional

Why Case Interviews Are So Difficult To Master

How to make the most of your internship

Study Abroad: The Basic Steps

Do I Need Experience With EMT Jobs To Have A Firefighter Career?

Check Out Exactly Where To Search For Industrial Engineering Employment

Common Medical Billing and Coding Terminology

Preparing for Your Phlebotomy Certification Exam

IT jobs in Dubai

Trying To Get Sales Opportunities

Why Applicants Hate Recruitment Agencies

How to Get a Job in the Insurance Industry

---