Recruitment in a tough market

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.