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Introduction
Applying for jobs can be a daunting process. It can help build your
confidence and chances of success if you understand the key steps
involved in finding and applying for jobs. The key areas to learn more
about include:
1. Job Advertisements: Learn where to find job adverts and understand
what they're asking for.
2. Job Descriptions and Person Specifications: Find out what these
mean and how they help you know what skills and qualities the
employer is looking for.
3. Job Application Forms: Discover how to fill out forms correctly and
what information employers need from you.
4. CVs: Understand how to create a CV that highlights your skills,
experience and strengths.
5. Cover Letters: Learn how to write a letter that introduces you to
employers and explains why you're the right fit for the job.
6. Interviews: Prepare for interviews by knowing what to expect and
how to present yourself confidently.
Searching for Job
Vacancies
Where Can I Find a Job?
1. Job websites: Popular UK job sites include Indeed, TotalJobs, Reed,
CV-Library and the government’s own search platform, Find a Job.
2. Employer websites: If you know which employer you would like to
work for, most large companies have a ‘Careers’ or ‘Work with us’
section on their website.
3. Apprenticeships: Take a look at the official
UK government apprenticeships website.
4. Local newspapers and noticeboards: Community centres, libraries
and local shops often post job adverts.
5. Networking: Speak to friends, family, teachers and support workers
to ask if they know of any opportunities.
6. Jobcentres: Visit your local Jobcentre Plus for advice and vacancies.
Top Tip: Use filters on job websites to find part-time or
flexible roles that match your specific needs.
Job Adverts
What Is a Job Advert and What Do They Include?
• A job advert provides basic details about a job vacancy, such as the job
title, company name, location, salary and key information about the
working hours, contract type (e.g. full-time, part-time, temporary) and
the deadline to apply.
• Job adverts will often include a link to a job application pack, which
usually includes a more detailed job description, a person specification
and a job application form, or they may include information about
where to obtain these documents.
• If you have questions about the role that is not covered in the advert,
the job advert will often provide contact details for a member of staff
who is recruiting for the role.
Job Descriptions
What Is a Job Description?
• A job description is a detailed document that explains what a specific
role involves.
• It outlines the responsibilities and tasks you will perform if hired.
• It may include information about who you will report to, the team you
will work with and the duties of the role.
• The job description may also include information about
‘accountabilities’ which is information about how your performance at
work would be judged.
Person
Specifications
What Is a Person Specification?
• A person specification explains the skills, qualifications and qualities an employer is
looking for in a candidate.
• It often divides requirements into ‘Essential’ and ‘Desirable’:
• Essential: Skills or qualifications you must have to apply.
• Desirable: Additional skills or qualities that would make you stand out.
• It is important to demonstrate in your application how you meet the person
specification in order to prove that you are a suitable candidate for the role. The
closer your skills and experience match the person specification, the stronger your
application will be.
How to Use This Information:
1. Highlight the skills or qualifications you have that match the essential criteria.
2. Identify areas where you meet the desirable criteria.
3. Tailor your application to show how you meet these requirements.
Top Tip: Use the person specification as your main guide about what to
include in your CV, cover letter or application form.
Job Application
Forms
What Are Job Application Forms?
To apply for a job, most large employers will require you to complete a job application form.
Job application forms are standardised forms that employers use to gather important
information
about applicants.
You can practise completing a job application form by using the template provided in this
How
pack. to Complete Job Application Forms:
1. Read instructions carefully: Make sure you understand what is being asked before
you start.
2. Personal details: Accurately fill in your name, address, phone number, and email
address.
3. Education and qualifications: Include your school details and any qualifications (e.g.
GCSEs, Functional Skills etc.).
4. Work experience: List any jobs, work placements, or volunteering roles, focusing on
what
you learned.
5. Skills and interests: Highlight skills relevant to the job, such as communication or
teamwork.
6. Personal statement/Supporting information: Write a short section to explain why
you’re the right person for the job.
7. References: Provide the contact details of two referees, such as teachers or past
employers.
Writing a CV
What Is a CV?
• CV stands for ‘Curriculum Vitae’ which means ‘Course of Life’ in Latin. A CV is a summary of
your education, skills and work experience. It is also sometimes called a résumé.
• Smaller employers may ask for a CV and cover letter instead of a job application form.
Larger employers may ask for a CV and cover letter in addition to a job application form.
A CV Should Include:
• Contact details: Full name, address, phone number and professional email address.
• Profile: A short, positive statement about who you are and what you’re looking for (e.g. ‘I
am a motivated school leaver with strong organisational skills, seeking an entry-level
position in retail.’).
• Education: List your school, the years you attended and any qualifications like GCSEs or A-
levels.
• Work experience: Include jobs, work experience, or volunteering roles, describing your
responsibilities and achievements.
• Skills: Highlight key skills, such as IT proficiency, communication or time management.
• Hobbies and interests (optional): Mention activities that show your character (e.g.
sports, creative hobbies).
• References: State that references are available upon request. Do not include contact
details of referees without their permission!
Top Tips for Creating an Effective
CV
• Tailor the content of your CV specifically for each job, emphasising the
most relevant skills and experience for that particular role.
• Use bullet points and headings to make it easy to read.
• Use action words: Start bullet points with words like ‘organised,’
‘managed,’ ‘developed’ or ‘supported.’
• Use numbers to quantify your achievements where possible (e.g.
‘Handled 50+ customer queries daily’).
• Keep the design simple - avoid lots of bright colours or fancy fonts, as
these can look distorted on different software programmes when sent
electronically.
• Keep it to the point and ensure your CV is no longer than two pages.
• Proofread carefully to avoid spelling or grammar mistakes.
• Avoid unnecessary information: Leave out details like your photo, age
or medical information (these details are too personal).
Writing a Cover
Letter
What Is a Cover Letter?
• A one-page letter that introduces you to the employer and explains why you’re suitable for
the role.
• Unlike a CV, which is often a standardised document that lists facts about you, a cover
letter allows you to showcase your personality and enthusiasm for the job.
• Email applications: If you're applying by email, the email itself often serves as a cover
letter.
• Even if a cover letter is optional, including one can show that you’ve gone the extra mile in
your application.
How to Write a Cover Letter:
• Header: Include your address and the employer’s address.
• Greeting: Address the letter to the hiring manager by name if possible (e.g. ‘Dear Mr
Smith’).
• Introduction: Mention the job title and where you found the vacancy.
• Why you want the job: Explain what interests you about the company and role.
• Your suitability: Highlight your skills, experience and achievements relevant to the job.
Use information provided in the job advert and person specification to show how you meet
the requirements.
• Closing: Thank the employer for their time and state you look forward to hearing from
them.
• Sign off: Use ‘Yours sincerely’ if you know their name, or ‘Yours faithfully’ if you don’t.
Preparing for the
Interview
As part of the job application process, most employers would ask candidates to attend
an interview.
Interviews may include questions about your skills, experience and interest in the role.
Some employers may use practical tests or ask situational questions (e.g. ‘How would you
handle a difficult customer?’).
How to Prepare:
1. Research: Learn about the company’s values, products and services by visiting their
website.
2. Practice: Prepare answers to common interview questions (e.g. ‘What are your
strengths?’).
3. Prepare questions: Think of a few questions to ask the interviewer, such as ‘What is a
typical day like in this role?’ This shows the interviewer that you are curious and
interested in the role.
4. Accessibility requirements: If you have any specific needs (e.g. wheelchair access,
additional time for tests) contact the employer before the interview to let them know.
Employers in the UK are legally required to make reasonable adjustments to ensure that
the process is fair for all candidates.
5. Dress appropriately for an interview to make a good first impression. For most
interviews, smart trousers or a skirt with a shirt or blouse is suitable. Ensure that your
clothes are clean and tidy.
6. Bring copies of your CV, any qualification certificates and a notebook to take notes.
During the Interview
During the Interview
• Greet the interviewer with a smile and a handshake.
• Sit up straight and try to maintain eye contact (if possible). If you find eye contact
uncomfortable, it can be helpful to look at the interviewer’s nose or forehead
instead.
• Listen carefully to each question and take a moment to think before answering.
• Speak as clearly as you can.
Common Interview Questions:
• ‘Tell us a bit about yourself.’
• ‘Why do you want to work here?’
• ‘Why do you think you would be suited to this role?’
• ‘What are your strengths and weaknesses?’
• ‘Can you give an example of when you have worked as part of a team?’
• ‘Can you give an example of when you have had to meet a deadline?’
Top Tip: If you don’t understand a question,
it’s okay to ask the interviewer to repeat or
explain it.
After the
Interview
• Remember to maintain professionalism throughout your entire time on the
employer’s premises. Even after the formal interview ends, your conduct is still
being observed.
• Reflect on your experience; think about what went well and areas for
improvement. Write down questions or topics that came up so you can prepare
even better for future interviews.
• If you haven’t heard anything back after a reasonable time, it’s okay to contact
them to politely ask for an update on your application.
• If they gave a timeline for feedback, be patient and wait until that time has
passed before following up.
• Don’t stop applying for other jobs while waiting for a response. This increases
your chances of finding the right opportunity.
• If you’re successful, the employer will contact you with a job offer. They may
request additional information or documents, such as proof of right to work in the
UK.
• If you’re unsuccessful, don’t be discouraged. Many employers are happy to
provide Top
feedback on your
Tip: Treat interview
every - ask
interview as for it and use
a learning it to improve
experience. Evenfor
if next
you
time. don’t get the job, you’ve gained valuable practice that will help you in
future applications.
Conclusion
Key Points to Remember:
• Take your time and follow each step carefully.
• Tailor your CV and cover letter for each job.
• Prepare thoroughly for interviews.
• Seek support when needed.
Finding a job takes effort and persistence, but with the right approach, you
can succeed. Believe in yourself and your abilities and don’t be afraid to
ask others for help or advice if you need it.