Step-by-step guide to job hunting

Step 1: Find out about jobs

Do your homework on the types of jobs you are looking for. Things to consider are:

• What job opportunities are available in your region?
• What skills or qualifications do these jobs require, and how do these match your own?

You can find out about entry requirements for different jobs, and your chances of getting work in certain occupations, in our job database.

• Jobs database – look up jobs to find out their entry requirements and your job chances

Step 2: Write or update your CV

Gather information for your CV

• Make a list of your skills, and write down examples of how and when you used these skills.
• Make sure you have copies of any awards and certificates you have received.
• Decide who will be your referees. A referee could be an employer, teacher or coach. They need to be able to give a verbal reference about your work skills and character.

• Figure out your skills - how to identify what skills you have

Writing your CV

• A CV should be short - two to three pages at most.
• Write about your work experience, this is often more valued than qualifications.
• When you're done, have someone check over your CV.

• CVs - getting started
• CV styles - find out what style of CV would suit you best

Step 3: Search and apply for suitable jobs

Searching for job vacancies

• Talk to family, friends and neighbours - you never know who may have a job lead.
• Look for job ads in local newspapers.
• Sign up to job vacancy websites.
• Contact employers directly.
• Sign up with a recruitment company – there is no charge for this.

• How to find out about job vacancies

Applying for jobs

• Keep a list of jobs you have applied for.
• Always send out a cover letter - which explains why you want would be a good person for the job - with your CV.
• Tell referees about your job applications so that they are ready for a call.

• CV and cover letter templates – use our templates to help you write your cover letters
• Job vacancy and recruitment agency website links

Step 4: Prepare and practise for job interviews

Think about what kind of questions an employer might ask you.

• Write down your answers to possible questions.
• Practise answering interview questions with friends.

Think about what questions you can ask employers.

• Look at the employer's website to learn about their organisation. You can refer to this knowledge in your interview.
• Write down the questions to take to your interview.

• Tips for answering interview questions
• Questions you can ask at an interview

Step 5: Attend job interviews

No matter how hard you try, you won't be offered an interview for every job that you apply for. So when you are offered an interview, well done! Here are some tips to help you make a good impression.

• Arrive early for the interview.
• Have a notepad with your list of questions for the employer. You may also want to take notes in the interview.
• Have an idea about what salary you would like. Make sure this is realistic for the job.
• Dress neatly and in clothing that would be appropriate for the job.
  

• Work and Income website - find out about getting a clothing grant through the Transition to Work programme
• Dress for Success website - helps disadvantaged women find appropriate business clothes for job interviews

Step 6: Get a job offer

If you are offered a job, your employer will usually make a verbal offer first. They will then send you an employment agreement, which will outline the details of your employment.

Before you sign your employment agreement, take time to look over the details, and get advice if you need it.

What kind of information will my employment agreement contain?

Your agreement will explain the following:

• your wage or salary
• work hours
• details of your leave allowance, including sick leave, annual (holiday) leave and parental leave
• performance reviews.

Before you sign:

• read through the agreement - or get someone you trust to check it over
• make sure to ask your employer about anything in the agreement that you are unsure about.

• Dealing with job offers - more tips and advice

Find out more