Job applications
It is so hard to get the break into these industries that people often take the first job that comes along.
It's worth to hold your nerve and keep trying after a job that will give you a range of new skills and contacts to really boost your career. With a little thought and planning, you can increase your chances of finding new work.
Potential employers will almost always ask first for a CV and covering letter, even if there is a formal application form. So don't wait until you're up against a deadline and prepare well in advance.
CVs
Your CV is your sales/marketing brochure. It needs to demonstrate in a clear, readable format, the strengths, skills and experience you're offering to a potential employer/client.
It may be a while since you last looked at your CV, so it's worth taking time to get it right. Bring it up to date to include all the additional skills and experience you've recently acquired. Download the document below for more information on writing the perfect CV:
Covering letters
Covering letters have the job to personalise your application. Use this to show that you understand what the employer is looking for. You need to prove to them that you not only have the skills, but also the right attitude and approach and a real enthusiasm for the job.
Application forms
If you do have to fill in a formal application form, read it through first. Take some time to think about what they are really asking. Some of the information is purely factual (e.g. name, address, qualifications); however, other questions are designed to find out about your character, attitud and interests.
Think carefully before filling in your answers to these types of question, just as you would when writing a covering letter. Draft your answers beforehand and make sure they refer to the skills required in the job description.
So remember:
- Match your application letter to what you know about the company and how your skills and attributes might help them.
- If your application is unsuccessful, try not to take it personally and (politely) try to find out why. Ask what they were looking for and how your presentation could be improved in future. This kind of feedback is crucial.
- Keep reviewing your strategy and updating materials in line with the feedback you get.
- If this reveals a gap in your experience, skills or qualification, be prepared to consider some form of retraining.
- Have a contingency plan.
Read more in 
Marketing Yourself
Don't do all of this in isolation. Use your personal network to get feedback and advice on your plans. And, remember to follow up!
If your computer has the relevant software, click the document icons or document titles to view the relevant document. Right-click (PC) or hold your mouse-button down (Mac) on the document icon/title, you'll be given the option to save the file to disk. If you don't have the necessary software to view the documents, take the above links to download free reader programs.
