Whether you are an employer or job seeker, everyone
agrees that it is a tough employment market at the moment. For job
seekers and those looking to change jobs, there are fewer vacancies around than
there have been in the recent past, so how do you make the best of a
challenging situation ?
David Thompson, Director of Atlas Recruitment, says “We
have been in business in Guernsey for over 10 years. This may be a tough
market, but we have seen and come through challenging times before, and I am
sure we will do so again both now and in the future”. So, what are
the strategies for success in a difficult market?
David says “Firstly, you need to ensure your CV
looks as good as possible, and this is where a professionally presented CV will
often score highly over a home produced version”. It may be several
years since you were last looking for a new job, and the CV that looked pretty
good then may be looking a bit dated now. Professional recruitment
consultants are reviewing and preparing CVs on a daily basis, and know what
their clients are looking for.
David goes on to say “It is important to be
realistic about your expectations, not just in terms of salary, but also in
terms of other parts of the employment package such as training.”
Many organisations
have had to make savings in these areas, so it will be helpful if you can show
a commitment to keeping costs down, for example by studying locally or via
distance learning.
Qualifications are very important in a challenging
climate, and additional qualifications (or a willingness to study for them) may
make you stand out from less well qualified applicants. David says “It
can be helpful to add to your CV not just qualifications, but also examples of
CPD that you have recently undertaken.” Similarly membership /
student membership of local groups and societies and such as the GSCCA is
likely to be favorably
regarded.
David says “It is important to remember that the
world has not stood still. Some business are still growing and hiring,
and this is where using a professional recruitment consultant with a wide range
of contacts can be very helpful.” It is important to remain
positive. Guernsey still enjoys very full employment, and even if may
take longer to find, there should still be a job out there somewhere.
