Category: Career

It’s very important to take care of the way you present yourself online when it comes to impressing potential employers. It can be easier than you think for employers to carry out research on you online, and some kinds of content can make them think twice about choosing to interview or take you on as an employee. In this guide, we’ll look at why keeping your online reputation clean is so important, what you can do to improve yours and also take a look at whether bad credit can compromise your chances of employment.

Why is it so important to keep a good online presence?

First impressions count. One of the first things many employers do when they are deciding whether to interview or employ someone is to research applicants online. They may choose to look at your social media profiles, your personal website and general online presence to get a first impression of you. If you have a clean, professional online presence, this can greatly increase your chances of employment.

Professionalism and trustworthiness

If you have a clean online reputation, this can make you appear highly professional and trustworthy. An employer is more likely to trust you if you’ve maintained a positive and professional presence online. Negative or unprofessional content can cause employers to see red flags and prevent them from considering you. If your online behaviour doesn’t align well with the company’s values, this may also be an obstacle.  Inappropriate posts, unprofessional online behaviour and controversial opinions can all stop you from being recruited for the jobs you want. A clean online reputation can give you an edge over a candidate who hasn’t taken steps to present a professional image on the internet.

Long-term career opportunities

If you already have a clean online reputation, this can cause employers to think you’ll maintain this in the future. If you are accepted into a reputable company and your career grows, your online presence may gain more visibility. Maintaining a good online reputation now can mean appearing less risky to employers.

Beat automation

More and more employers are using AI and other tools to screen candidates. They can use these tools to flag content which could be seen as problematic, such as inappropriate language. Your online content could cause you to be screened out even before you reach the interview stage if it is particularly controversial.

Presenting yourself professionally online can boost your credibility, help you win the trust of employers and appear more desirable to employers.

How to keep your online reputation clean

There are many steps you can take to clean up your online reputation to make yourself more appealing to potential employers. These include auditing your online presence and taking down anything that you think could be harming your employment opportunities. Delete any content that you think could appear unprofessional, inappropriate or controversial. Make sure you do this on every social media platform you appear on, especially in environments where your content could be seen by everyone such as X.

Use privacy settings

Some social media platforms allow you to use privacy settings to limit who can see your content. However, this is not always effective as even people close to you could alert your employer to inappropriate content in future. Make sure any content that could be deemed inappropriate or controversial is either deleted or at least only visible to those you trust the most.

Think before you post

If you are considering posting anything that could be seen as controversial, think carefully about whether it is truly worth publishing. Things that you may regard as harmless could be perceived differently by others. Try to present yourself professionally in every online environment where your content can be seen by an employer. Make sure you use a professional-looking email address too when contacting potential employers.

Set up alerts to monitor your online reputation

Some people use tools like Google Alerts and use online management tools to protect their online reputations. If you find any negative or inaccurate information about yourself online, try to get it removed if you can. You could even use the services of an online reputation management expert if you need outside assistance.

Engage positively

Try to interact with others in a respectful and professional manner. Unprofessional and disrespectful content can have a very negative impact on your online reputation.

Can bad credit harm my employment opportunities too? 

We’ve already talked about how a negative online presence can harm your employment chances, but another thing that can cause problems when you’re looking for a job is a bad credit rating.

Some employers carry out credit checks as part of the recruitment process. This is more likely to happen if you’re applying for a job that involves dealing with money or sensitive information. If you have a poor credit history, this could make employers concerned about things like your financial stability and reliability. A bad credit history can make you ineligible for certain positions including banking, finance and government jobs.

Thorough background checks including credit checks are often required when prestigious companies and organisations are hiring. If you have a history of bad credit, bankruptcy, defaults or large outstanding debts, this may make it harder for you to pass security clearances.

Thankfully there are various steps that you can take if you feel a bad credit history is hampering your chances of getting a job. These include paying down your debts, making sure you’re on the Electoral Roll, making all your repayments on time, only applying for credit when you need to and avoiding making too many credit applications in a short period of time. You should also try to maintain a low debt-to-income ratio.

Maintaining a clean online reputation and a good credit score can both be very effective when it comes to impressing potential employers. Keep a close eye on your online presence, present yourself professionally and address any negative information about you online to make yourself more credible in the eyes of employers. If you feel your credit history could be holding you back too, try to do all you can to improve it.

So you’ve got big ambitions of making a splash as an HR pro, huh? Working in this sphere is like being a multifaceted toolkit, but for organisations. You gotta juggle all sorts of responsibilities while keeping everyone happy.

We’re about to unleash some top-notch skills you’ll need to crush it in Human Resources. Prepare to level up!

Communication: The Ticket to Eventual HR Mastery

Alright, kicking off our skill-set list is communication. We’re talking about top-tier, crystal-clear exchanges. Whether you’re hashing out benefits with employees or negotiating with upper management, your ability to convey ideas effectively is absolutely clutch. It’s not just what you say; it’s how you listen that can turn tricky situations into high-fives all around the office.

Ever played that game ‘telephone’ as a kid and laughed at how jumbled messages got? In HR, there’s zero room for giggles over miscommunication snafus – getting it right first time is the name of the game. So perfecting your verbal wizardry alongside your email etiquette will make sure every message hits home like a well-thrown dart.

Empathy: Your Emotional Intel on High Alert

Next up, we’ve got empathy. Not just a good-to-have, it’s the not-so-secret weapon in any HR hero’s arsenal. Think of it this way: if communication is the what, empathy is totally the how and why. It’s about putting yourself in someone else’s non-slip work shoes and really getting where they’re coming from to provide support.

Picture this – you’re at your desk, deep in spreadsheets when bam! Someone comes to you stressed out ’cause life threw them a curveball. A dash of genuine care can turn that frown upside down faster than free pizza on a Friday afternoon. So yeah, flexing those empathy muscles helps build trust with folks at every level – making sure the workplace vibes stay more chill than an arctic fox’s refrigerator.

Following Processes Accurately, e.g. Using a Template

Now let’s talk about the unsung heroes of HR: processes and templates. Without them, it’d be like herding cats – cute but chaotic. Being able to follow procedures spot-on ensures everything runs smoother than a freshly pressed shirt.

You might think relying on those handy templates for HR professionals makes stuff impersonal, right? It’s actually about keeping the playing field level while saving your sanity when you’ve got 101 tasks coming at you. Whether it’s for onboarding new staff or logging annual reviews, having a solid template at hand is like having cheat codes for efficiency – legal ones, promise! Plus, who doesn’t love checking off boxes and hitting “complete”? Talk about satisfaction central!

Conflict Resolution: The Peacekeeper Playbook

Strap in for skill number four – conflict resolution. In the HR trenches, you’re basically the workplace peacekeeper, navigating through squabbles and misunderstandings like a pro dodgeball player.

Got two team members exchanging icy glares over by the water cooler? Or maybe there’s a full-on email duel underway? Here’s where you swoop in with your diplomatic cape on. By being part sleuth, part therapist, and all-around fair judge, your knack for nipping conflicts in the bud keeps office drama lower than a limbo stick at a beach bash.

It’s not about picking sides or playing favourites. It’s about listening to grievances (yeah, empathy – I see you), probing just right, and cooking up solutions that leave everyone feeling like they snagged a piece of the victory pie.

Tech Savviness: The Digital Dilemma Devourer

Brace yourself for the techie stuff. HR isn’t all handshakes and health benefits – it’s also about being a bit of a geek… in the best way possible. We’re talking tech savviness, where you wield digital tools like an ancient warrior with their trusty sword.

You’ve gotta be comfy around databases that have more columns than a Roman temple and software that can seem more complex than assembling IKEA furniture without the manual. But once you’ve got your head around them, these digital doohickeys streamline processes faster than you can say “automation”.

Imagine merging heaps of data into one click-worthy report or rolling out training via slick e-learning platforms – it’s enough to make any HR professional do a happy little desk dance (we won’t judge).

Legal Eagle: Knowing the Rules of the Game

Let’s get down to brass tacks with our next must-have skill – being a legal eagle in the intricate world of employment law. This isn’t about binging courtroom dramas, though; it’s real-deal legislation know-how.

Think of yourself as the ultimate rule keeper, because when it comes down to labour laws, workplace regulations, and all that fun compliance jazz, you’re holding down the fort. It’s like keeping a mental library where “The Employee Handbook” is always a bestseller.

You don’t need to go full-on Judge Judy here but having a solid grasp on what’s lawful and fair keeps everyone outta hot water. And when new laws pop up or old ones get twistier than a pretzel? You’re there to guide your team through without breaking a sweat — or more importantly, breaking any rules.

The Wrap-Up

And there you have it – a look at the skills that are key for rocking HR. Whether wrangling data, dropping legal knowledge bombs, or playing office peacemaker, levelling up in these areas ain’t just good for your career; it’s pure gold for creating a stellar workplace.

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If you’re wondering whether a career in medicine is right for you, you’ve come to the right place. 

Before you begin submitting a healthcare job application, however, it’s important to approach this realistically. Medicine is a competitive and testing industry both personally and professionally, often pushing students to their very limits in their first few years on the job. Applicants should avoid looking at career prospects in medicine with rose-tinted glasses and diligently research, plan, and reflect on whether this is right for them.

However, don’t let the competitiveness of the healthcare sector dissuade you from taking routes into working in this field. While it’s undeniable that it comes with its challenges – many of which have been widely documented in the press in recent years – a career in medicine promises career fulfilment like no other. With proper planning and preparation, you can set yourself up for a prosperous career following medical school and training. As 2024 is upon us, there’s no better time to begin kickstarting your graduate job search.

If you want to understand the key steps to take before leaping into the medical field itself, then look no further.

Are You Passionate and Motivated About Medicine?

First and foremost, you should do some serious self-reflection, pinpointing exactly what draws you towards a medical career.

Some important questions to ask yourself include:

• Am I genuinely passionate about healthcare and scientific discovery? Remember that medicine (like many graduate schemes) requires many dedicated years of – often full-time – study and training. Are you realistically able and driven to succeed here?
• Do I want to help people? Possessing empathy and understanding different perspectives can better patient relationships.
• Am I comfortable making quick, critical decisions under pressure? Doctors often handle stressful situations with impacts on health outcomes.
• Can I cope with the emotional demands? Illness, suffering and death affect everyone but handling it daily requires a different level of emotional and personal resilience that might not come naturally.
• Are there specialisms in medicine that particularly interest you? You may have identified a particular career path outside of the ‘typical’ realm of general practice and hospital work, such as intensive care, oncology, radiology, research, diagnostics and testing, and many others.
• Are you motivated purely by money? If so, a career in medicine may not be for you. While there are routes to achieving a high-paying medical career, this shouldn’t be your primary objective. 

If your motivations stem from the right place like the desire to learn, help and make a difference, medicine could be very fulfilling. 

Which Area of Medicine Appeals to You?

Medicine as an employment sector contains numerous specialities and sub-sectors, ranging from paediatrics, cardiology and dermatology to newer ones like sport and exercise medicine. 

While you may not have a specific interest and hope to find this down the line, it can be good to pinpoint a handful of areas that you can envision yourself working in. Consider the following medical avenues, although this list merely scratches the surface:

• Patient interaction – General practitioners, psychiatrists, and psychologists will require more face-to-face consultation time with patients than exclusively surgical or neurological disciplines.
  
• Procedures – Surgeons, for example, may be expected to conduct a wide range of operations on a given day, while radiologists may face more routine working patterns of assessing and interpreting images and data. Consider what is most appealing to you.
  
• Work environments – Paramedics conduct urgent and time-crucial operations and procedures for admitted patients, while family physicians balance a healthy mixture of office and on-site visits. These are drastically different working environments and patterns which some may be more suited to than others.
  
• Conditions treated – Rheumatologists handle joint or muscle diseases, neurologists address the nervous system and optometrists test vision and identify eye health problems. If you are interested in specific conditions and their treatments, then this can be helpful to identify ahead of time.
  
• Patient profile – Paediatricians work exclusively with babies, children and young people, while palliative carers provide specialist end-of-life care and support to patients, often elderly. Consider whether you see yourself working with specific age groups or types of patients.

It can be helpful to talk directly with medical professionals in fields of fervent interest to get a more accurate idea of a typical working day. This can help you narrow down your options even further.

How Competitive are Your Chosen Specialities?

Doctors will always be in demand, and this is unlikely to change. While some professions are more competitive than others, the sector is always expanding and new avenues are constantly opening. 

However, entry to medical school is very competitive and requires you to get excellent A-level grades (or equivalent level 3 qualifications). While each medical school sets specific entry requirements, you will likely need to demonstrate, from the outset:

• GCSE certificates in 7-10 subjects, including English Language, Mathematics, Biology and Chemistry (or dual award science) at grade B/6 or above.
• A* or A grades at A-Level including Biology (or Human Biology) and Chemistry, with predictions of AAA at minimum.
• A predicted or achieved first or upper-second-class degree in an approved subject from a recognised institution. 

Once you graduate with your medical degree, you can take a few different pathways. After a compulsory two-year foundation programme, followed by either a three-year GP training course or ‌a speciality programme which lasts between five to eight years. 

Consider your academic background carefully before embarking on any study of medicine, to address any missing prerequisites or skills gaps needing improvement. Strengthen any areas before applying for medical school to ensure you aren’t setting yourself up for immediate disappointment.

How Can You Best Prepare Your Application?

Studying medicine is a huge commitment and shouldn’t be decided on a whim. Applying for roles in the field requires attention to detail and plenty of research ahead of time.

It’s vital to find out as much as possible about the realities, expectations, and entry requirements before you apply.

We recommend you do the following before beginning any medical application:

• Speak with friends and family about your intent to enter the field.
• Discuss career prospects with your teacher(s), personal tutor(s) and career adviser if you have one within your school, college, or university.
• Consider one-to-one graduate coaching and mentorship from independent, objective career specialists, like those at GraduateCoach.
• Attend open days at various medical schools to get a glimpse into life in a specific facility or profession.
• Arrange consultations with doctors about careers, or perhaps arrange to shadow them on a day.
• Consider offering your time and services to undertake paid or unpaid work experience in a medical facility, to give yourself real-world scenarios to digest.
• Take the initiative to attend talks or conferences about medical careers.
• Consider taster courses or summer schools if a nearby medical school offers them.

Conclusion

It’s clear to see that entering medicine is not a decision to be taken lightly. However, don’t let the competitiveness and years of study and training deter you from entering an enriching and meaningful career that can offer long-term job security and fulfilment. Once you graduate, you can begin earning a respectable salary which can only increase with experience and depth of applications. 

You can experience varied situations and challenges (both practical and intellectual) on a day-to-day basis when you enter the field, but ultimately you will be filling a respected role that society values highly. Use the guidance above to position yourself successfully from the word go.

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In today’s competitive job market, where countless resumes flood the desks of hiring managers, standing out from the crowd is no longer an option—it’s a necessity. As new graduates step into the professional world, developing the art of promoting themselves through a personal brand is an important skill. Creating a distinctive online presence not only highlights your unique skills and qualities but also opens doors to exciting opportunities. In this guide, we will explore the importance of personal branding and provide valuable tips for graduates in order to create an engaging online presence. 

The Power Of Personal Branding 

A personal brand goes beyond an impressive resume or impressive academic record. It is the art of showcasing your unique identity and skills to the world, creating a memorable and authentic narrative that sets you apart. In an information-saturated world, employers are increasingly turning to online platforms to identify and evaluate potential candidates. Your personal logo becomes your digital calling card, giving you a complete picture of your professional identity. 

Creating Your Digital Persona 

The journey to personal branding begins with self-assessment. Graduates need to identify their strengths, passions and values ​​to create a cohesive and authentic brand. Understanding what sets you apart will determine the development of your online persona. Start by curating consistent and professional images on social media platforms. Use professional headshots, create a solid bio, and align your content with your career aspirations.

Creating An Online Portfolio 

An online portfolio is a dynamic tool that showcases your skills, accomplishments, and projects. Graduates must create their own website which acts as a digital portfolio, providing employers with a central place to search for their work and skills. Include detailed job descriptions, testimonials, and any relevant multimedia materials. A well-curated portfolio not only reflects your abilities but is a testament to your dedication to your craft. 

Using Social Media 

Social media platforms are invaluable tools for personal branding. Graduates should effectively use platforms such as LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram to enhance their professional identity. Share industry insights, connect with relevant communities and connect with professionals in your industry. Regularly updating your profile with improvements and insights helps keep your personal brand fresh in the minds of your network. 

Networking And Collaboration 

Networking is a cornerstone of personal branding. Actively look for opportunities to connect with professionals in your industry. Participate in virtual events, join online communities and participate in conversations. Collaborating on projects or contributing to discussions not only enhances your skills but also expands your network. Building relationships within your office can lead to mentoring opportunities, fellowships, and even job offers.

TutorExtra UK: Showcasing Expertise And Building Credibility

One powerful platform that graduates can use to showcase their skills is TutorExtra UK. This platform brings together talented individuals and students who are exploring their unique talents. By sharing knowledge through online courses or one-on-one lessons, graduates can showcase their skills while earning money. This not only enhances their personal brand but also builds credibility in their chosen field. 

Conclusion 

In today’s dynamic job market, personal branding is the key to opening doors of opportunity. Graduates must invest time and effort into crafting a compelling online presence that reflects their unique skills, personality, and aspirations. By using social media strategically, building an online presence, and actively networking, graduates can enter the competitive job market with confidence. Platforms such as TutorExtra UK provide a new way for graduates to showcase their skills and connect with eager learners. Remember, in the digital age, your personal brand is your most powerful asset—master the art of self-promotion, and present your unique story to the professional world.

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In the fast-paced realm of digital marketing, where trends shift like the British weather, staying ahead of the curve demands a keen understanding of the latest skills and tools. 

As we step into 2023, the digital marketing landscape continues to evolve, creating an insatiable demand for professionals equipped with a versatile skill set. 

Whether you’re a seasoned marketer looking to expand your horizons or a fresh-faced enthusiast eager to dive into the digital ocean, here are the top in-demand skills to keep you sailing smoothly in the dynamic waves of 2023.

Data Interpretation and Analysis Mastery

Imagine yourself as a digital detective, uncovering hidden clues within mounds of data. In the current marketing scenario, the ability to decipher and make sense of complex data sets is not just desirable, but crucial. 

Companies are seeking marketers who can translate raw data into actionable insights, allowing for informed decision-making and targeted marketing strategies. Proficiency in data analytics tools such as Google Analytics, Tableau, and Adobe Analytics is a prized asset that can set you apart in the digital job market.

AI and Machine Learning Acumen

As Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) continue to weave their way into the fabric of digital marketing, familiarity with these technologies is no longer an option but a necessity. 

Understanding how AI algorithms function and leveraging machine learning to personalise customer experiences and optimise campaigns can significantly enhance your value as a digital marketer. Upskilling in AI-driven marketing tools and platforms, like Salesforce’s Einstein and Marketo’s AI, can give you an edge in harnessing the power of automation and predictive analysis.

Content Diversification and Multimedia Proficiency

In the age of information overload, compelling content reigns supreme. However, written content alone no longer suffices. 

Video, podcasts, infographics, and interactive media have become indispensable tools for engaging audiences and fostering meaningful connections. Marketers proficient in creating diverse and captivating multimedia content are highly sought after. Online video editors play a pivotal role in modern digital marketing, enabling the creation of diverse and captivating multimedia content.

The ability to craft engaging video scripts, edit captivating podcasts, and design visually appealing infographics is a skill set that can significantly bolster your digital marketing repertoire.

Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) Expertise

With search engines serving as the gateway to online visibility, the significance of mastering the art of Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) cannot be overstated.

 In 2023 and beyond, a deep understanding of the latest SEO trends, including technical SEO, on-page and off-page optimisation, and local SEO strategies, is a fundamental requirement for any digital marketing professional. 

Staying up-to-date with search engine algorithm changes and employing white-hat SEO techniques can ensure your digital presence remains visible and competitive.

Agile Project Management and Adaptability

In the ever-evolving landscape of digital marketing, the ability to adapt swiftly to changing trends and consumer behaviour is paramount. Agile project management skills, including the ability to prioritise tasks, meet deadlines, and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, can significantly enhance your efficiency and productivity. 

Moreover, leveraging versatile tools such as Smallpdf’s PDF to Word converter for seamless document conversion from one format to another can streamline workflows and ensure that your content is easily accessible and shareable across various platforms. To find out more, head to this link. 

E-commerce And Mobile Marketing Competence

In the era of booming online shopping and our inseparable bond with mobile devices, having a strong grasp of e-commerce and mobile marketing is more crucial than ever. 

Excelling in the mechanics of e-commerce platforms, refining product listings, and executing mobile-friendly marketing strategies are now indispensable skills for businesses aiming to thrive in the digital sphere.

Cybersecurity Awareness And Compliance Knowledge

In a landscape shadowed by data breaches and cyber threats, digital marketers must be well-versed in cybersecurity protocols and compliance regulations. 

Grasping the intricacies of data protection laws such as the UK’s Data Protection Act and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is vital for upholding consumer trust and maintaining ethical marketing practices.

Social Media Engagement And Community Management Finesse

In the bustling realm of social media, the ability to engage and manage online communities has become a prized skill among digital marketers. 

Understanding the subtleties of different social media platforms, crafting captivating social media campaigns, and nurturing meaningful connections with audiences is essential for fostering brand loyalty and driving impactful conversions. 

Mastery of social media management tools like Hootsuite, Buffer, and Sprout Social can streamline efforts and empower marketers to navigate the dynamic and ever-expanding social media landscape with finesse.

Email Marketing and Automation Expertise

Despite the proliferation of new marketing channels, email marketing continues to remain a potent tool for nurturing leads and fostering customer relationships.

 In 2023 (and the years to come) mastering the art of personalised and targeted email campaigns, understanding email automation workflows, and leveraging customer segmentation is crucial for driving engagement and conversions. 

Familiarity with email marketing platforms such as Mailchimp, Constant Contact, and HubSpot can amplify your ability to create impactful and data-driven email marketing strategies.

Creative Copywriting and Brand Storytelling Skills

In a digital world brimming with content – sometimes termed ‘infobesity’ – the art of crafting compelling narratives and persuasive copy has become a prized skill for digital marketers. The ability to weave engaging stories, evoke emotions, and create a distinctive brand voice is essential for capturing audience attention and fostering brand loyalty. 

Proficiency in creative copywriting, including SEO-optimised website content, persuasive ad copy, and captivating social media captions, is a skill set that can significantly enhance your brand’s digital presence and resonate with your target audience.

Overview

Embracing these in-demand skills in 2023 and beyond can serve as a launchpad for your success in the ever-evolving sphere of digital marketing. 

With a diverse skill set and a willingness to adapt to the dynamic nature of the industry, you can carve a niche for yourself in the digital marketing landscape and steer your career toward new horizons. 

So, strap on your digital armour and embark on your journey with confidence, equipped with the skills that will set you apart in the bustling digital marketplace of 2023.

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Do you have a friend or family member who is struggling with unemployment?

Unemployment can be a challenging period, plagued with uncertainty, financial stress, and often, a hit to one’s self-esteem.

If someone close to you is going through this phase, your support can make a significant difference. In this post, we share some top tips on how you can help them. 

Lend a Listening Ear

Sometimes, the most helpful thing you can do is simply listen. Allowing them to vent and voice their feelings helps someone who is struggling during their time of unemployment. 

Validate Their Feelings

Your unemployed friend or family member may be experiencing a wide variety of emotions. They may be feeling:

• Frustrated due to sending out countless applications without hearing back 
• Worried due to financial concerns and financial responsibilities
• Hopeless due to not being able to find suitable jobs to apply for
• Angry due to being ghosted after completing interviews 
• Apprehensive about their career prospects 
• Excited about the possibility of getting a better job opportunity than their previous role
• Anxious about upcoming interviews or feedback
• Shame: cultural and societal pressures could make someone feel they aren’t fulfilling their role
• Sadness: due to losing their job, especially if they were passionate about the job or had built close relationships at the workplace

Avoid telling them to ‘not worry’ in response to their feelings as this could make them feel as though you are dismissing their feelings. Even though you mean well by saying this to them, it may not help them and may make them feel as though their emotions are not valid. 

Avoid Unsolicited Advice

Offering advice without being asked might make them feel more pressured. Instead, just be there for them and understand what they are feeling. 

Also, avoid giving them ‘obvious’ advice. Telling your friend or family member to ‘keep applying’ may not be helpful to them at all, especially if they have been treating their job search as a full-time job, and sending out applications daily. 

Offer Practical Help

Direct assistance can be invaluable, especially during the early days of job hunting. The key to offering practical advice is to ensure that you do not come across in an overly pushy way as this could have a negative impact on your relationship. Here are some ways in which you could offer support to a family member who is struggling with unemployment: 

Offer to Review Their CV

You may not be able to offer specific advice if they work in a different industry. However, you can proofread their CV and capture any spelling or grammatical mistakes. You will also be able to ‘judge’ to what extent they are showcasing their skills and achievements. Whilst reviewing their CV, ask yourself: ‘Have they included figures and statistics to quantify their achievements and impact in the workplace?’ 

Network

Share job openings, introduce them to contacts in their field, or recommend networking events. If you do not have any connections in their industry, feel free to do some online research for events and upcoming career fairs. If you can, offer to attend the events with them. 

Skill Development

Suggest online courses or workshops that could enhance their employability. There are many free online certifications that they may benefit from. Encourage them to use this time of unemployment to upskill. 

Encourage Routine

Having a structure can offer solace during uncertain times. During a period of unemployment, it is easy to adopt bad habits such as:

•  Not maintaining good sleep hygiene and waking up/going to sleep at different times each night 
• Not eating healthy, balanced meals
• Skipping the gym and maintaining an exercise routine 

Lack of routine during a period of unemployment can make it much more difficult and have an impact on their mental health. 

Here are two good ways to encourage someone to maintain a routine while they are looking for a new job. 

Daily Habits: Encourage them to maintain a regular routine, be it with exercise, hobbies, or job hunting. If you can, offer to engage in these activities with them. For example, you could both sign up for the same gym and train with each other daily. Alternatively, if they do not want to sign up for a gym membership right now, check if your gym membership allows you to bring a friend. 

Setting Goals: Help them set weekly goals, whether it’s sending out a certain number of job applications or learning a new skill. You could take on the role of accountability coach, whereby, each week you check in with them and assess if they have met their goals for the week. If they have not, talk through the reasons and create some new goals for the following week. 

Be Mindful of Financial Strains

Unemployment can bring about a tight financial situation. Be sensitive to this fact. Here are some ways that you can financially support someone who is unemployed: 

• Avoid Expensive Outings: When suggesting get-togethers, opt for budget-friendly or even better, free activities, such as going to the beach or the park.

• Gift Thoughtfully: Consider gifting essentials or gift cards. 

Focus on Well-being

Mental and physical well-being can take a hit during unemployment.

• Encourage Self-care: Recognise that your loved one might feel isolated or overwhelmed during this time. Gently suggest activities that could alleviate their stress. A spa day, a walk in the park or a movie night with someone who is struggling to find a job may help them to distress and take a break from sending out job applications and interviewing. 

The calming effect of meditation, the distraction of a good book, or the peacefulness of nature walks can offer solace. These aren’t just distractions; they are ways to help them relax and find balance. Lend them one of your favourite books, or share with them any meditation music ideas. 

Promote Seeking Professional Help: Remember, there’s strength in seeking help. If you notice them struggling excessively, the potential benefits of career coaching, counselling or therapy might be worth mentioning. These professionals are trained to assist individuals as they navigate unemployment. 

Be Patient and Avoid Judgment

Exercise Patience and Abstain from Judging

The process of job hunting and returning to the workforce can sometimes be prolonged, and it rarely follows a predictable timeline. There are numerous factors at play, many of which might be out of your loved one’s control, no matter how hard they are trying with their job search. During these times, your patience can be their greatest comfort. Avoid setting expectations on when they “should” secure a job, as this might only add to their stress. Here are 2 great ways to show your loved one that you won’t judge them for the situation they are in and that you deeply believe in them and will be patient and supportive during their journey. 

Mind Your Words and Steer Clear of Negative Comments

Words wield immense power and can either uplift or weigh someone down. Avoid offhand comments or questions that might come across as critical or judgmental. Phrases like “Have you found a job yet?” or “Maybe you’re not trying hard enough” can be disheartening. Instead, strive to be their sounding board, offering words of encouragement and understanding. Phrases such as how is the job search going? Will come across in a much more gentle way.  

Celebrate Every Milestone, No Matter How Small

The path to employment is filled with various milestones, not just the act of securing a job. Recognising and celebrating these can be a powerful motivator for your loved one. Did they polish their resume, network with professionals, land an interview, or perhaps complete a professional course? Each of these is an achievement in its own right. By celebrating these small wins, you’re not only acknowledging their efforts but also fostering a positive mindset, helping them to continue pushing forward with renewed energy and hope.

In the end, your understanding, patience, and positivity can be instrumental in helping a friend or family member navigate the challenges of unemployment.

Share Resources

There are many tools and resources available for job seekers. Here are some job listing sites that may help your loved one who is unemployed: 

Job Websites:

Indeed: A global platform listing thousands of jobs across various sectors.

Reed: Reed is one of the UK’s largest job search websites.

Totaljobs: Offers vacancies from private companies across sectors.

CV-Library: Allows job seekers to upload their CVs and apply for jobs to the CV-Library platform.

Government Resources:

Universal Jobmatch: Provided by the UK government, lists vacancies.

National Careers Service: Offers information, advice, and guidance to help people make decisions on learning, training, and work.

Find an apprenticeship: Government service for finding apprenticeship opportunities.

Specialised Job Boards:

NHS Jobs: For those looking for a career in the healthcare sector.

Guardian Jobs: Offers jobs mainly in the education, government, media, and charity sectors.

Recruitment Agencies:

Hays: Specialises in various sectors from accounting to engineering.

Michael Page: Provides recruitment services for a range of sectors.

Robert Half: Specialises in finance, accounting, and office jobs.

Regular Check-ins

A simple “How are you doing?” can mean the world to someone who is unemployed and looking for work.

Casual Conversations: Not every conversation has to revolve around their job hunt. Talk about everyday events, movies, or books to give them a break.

Reminders: Let them know you’re thinking of them and are available if they want to chat.

Conclusion

Supporting someone through unemployment is about striking a balance between offering practical help and providing emotional support. 

While you can’t solve everything for them, your understanding, patience, and consistent presence can be the beacon of hope they need during this challenging time. 

You won’t have all the answers but showing up and reminding them they’re not alone in their journey, will help them tremendously during this time. 

If your family member or friend is particularly struggling with the job search and being unemployed, there are plenty of resources that can help them including mental health charities such as Mind, the NHS, and governmental resources. Here at Graduate Coach, we can also help with our one-to-one career coaching, interview preparation, online courses and more.

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Rather than getting into a job after you graduate, starting your own business could be the move that appeals the most. There are all manner of different options for starting a business but, if you’re able to get your hands on the capital, it could be that owning and renting property could be just the path for you. Here, we’re going to look at some of the preparation you need to do to become a professional landlord.

Know your responsibilities

First of all, it’s important to know that landlords have to do more than simply provide a property, they have to ensure it meets all the mandatory regulations, including gas safety, electrical safety, and fire safety. Landlords also have to get an energy performance certificate to inform tenants of how energy efficient the property is. Landlords also have to check whether or not tenants have the Right to Rent when signing a new agreement, so do some research on that.

Know your costs

One of the reasons that profits can be slim, to start with, as a landlord, is the many costs that come with renting out homes. You have to keep track of property maintenance costs, any costs of refurbishing the space between tenants, not to mention landlord insurance, and any fees for letting agents you work with. All of this needs to be calculated when setting rent for the property.

Know where to get your funding

It’s a good idea to get into the landlord game with some capital already at the ready, but you don’t want to buy a home outright with all of it. Instead, borrow what you can reasonably afford. Buy-to-let mortgages have never been easier to get, but you should ensure that you take the time to work out which of them really suits your needs best. You don’t want to take out more than you’re able to reliably pay, and you should add the mortgage fees to the costs that you have to track, as well.

Know an opportunity when you see it

Most of the opportunities to make money as a landlord are in the property that you choose to rent out. Taking the time to research property markets, thinking about which tenants you’re trying to appeal to, and choosing properties in areas that suit their needs is how you’re going to increase the chances of always keeping your property full of paying tenants.

Stay up to date with the law

One of the most important things for any landlord to get to grips with is the Renters Reform Bill, a bill that has recently been introduced to parliament, It is going to shake up how renters and landlords operate today, especially in how evictions are managed. It’s recommended any would-be landlords pay close attention to the progress of this bill.

Landlords do not have it easy, despite what popular media can say, today. Small landlords have to deal with thin profit margins, and managing properties can very much be a full-time job. However, there is certainly always room for profit to be made if you’re a good fit for it.

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Print marketing used to be king. That was until digital marketing came along. Digital marketing proved to be faster, cheaper and greener. This resulted in many companies switching brochures for websites, flyers for emails and billboards for PPC ads. For many companies, it seemed clear: print marketing was dead.

Except it’s not. Print marketing may not be as popular as it once was, however many companies are still using it. In fact, print marketing seems to be making a resurgence. Why are companies still continuing to use print? This post explains…

The internet is becoming increasingly crowded

Standing out online is becoming increasingly harder as the internet gets more crowded. Many of us have learnt to tune out adverts through constant exposure to them – it takes a truly innovative ad to grab us, and this requires a lot more work to produce. Meanwhile, many of us have growing inboxes full of email subscriptions, making it harder for emails to get through. As for websites, a growing number of sites is making it increasingly harder to top the rankings of search engines. All in all, successful digital marketing requires a lot more strategy to stand out – and this requires a lot more time and money. 

People are getting less physical mail

The world of print advertising is contrastingly becoming a less crowded market. Compared to 20 years ago, many of us get a lot less physical mail through our door. This makes it easier to stand out with a flyer, a brochure or even a simple newsletter. Yes, some of us still automatically throw such mail in the trash without looking at it (which is why digital marketing is still important). However, a lot of us still take notice of what’s coming through our letterboxes. 

Print provides an easier way to exchange information in person

Just met a potential client in person? Or perhaps you’d like to present a group of people with some written information? Telling someone to visit a website or asking for someone’s email address so that you can send them an email typically isn’t very convenient. Handing out a business card or flyer meanwhile takes a second. If you often meet potential clients in person or host events, it could make sense to invest in business card printing or flyer production to convert more leads. 

Print can be combined with digital marketing

Print doesn’t have to be a separate entity from digital marketing. In fact, many forms of print advertising can be used to direct people to your digital marketing. This includes printing email addresses on business cards or a website address on a poster. You can also QR codes to help direct people quickly to web pages without having to manually type the address into their phones. 

Print is getting more eco-friendly

A big argument against print marketing over the last few decades has been its carbon footprint. But a lot of print marketing actually isn’t very damaging at all to the environment. The bulk of flyers, business cards, posters and brochures nowadays are manufactured using recycled materials or card/paper from sustainable forests. In fact, you could argue that the energy used to power websites and apps sometimes has a far greater impact on the environment. 

Not everyone is glued to digital devices

You can’t reach all potential clients online. There are some older consumers that still seldom use the internet and print is therefore more effective at getting through to them. There are also younger people who don’t use social media and aren’t glued to their phones when walking to places. These types of people may still be converted by a flyer or a billboard as opposed to an online ad. 

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#1 Try to predict the interview questions

Preparation is crucial if you want to land that dream job you’ve applied for. While getting to know the company is a good starting point, it’s important to go further. Take a look at the job description and try to anticipate the interview questions that may arise. Note them down, along with your answers. By doing this, you’ll be better prepared and won’t be caught off guard.

#2 Build an online portfolio

Online portfolios aren’t just for designers and software developers; they’re also beneficial for other professionals. As a copywriter, you can showcase your best writing, or as a video editor, you can share links to your produced clips. If you aren’t able to showcase your work, don’t worry. Creating an “About Me” page is always an option. Write a brief description of yourself, highlighting your skills, experience, and career goals. Consider including your CV or even better, a short recording where you encourage potential employers to get in touch.

#3 Target the right jobs

Don’t take the shotgun approach of applying for any and every job; it’s not effective. Instead, focus on applying to positions that are a better fit for you and put effort into making those applications the best they can be. Also, look for companies that truly excite you. Remember, you’re not just looking for a short stint, but a long-term home, so choose wisely.

Think about it, are you ready to move to another state, city, country or continent? You can get a lot more offers if you go a little further in your job search. You may need a VPN for Safari to access the overseas job market, but that’s not a big price to pay. With a VPN in your Safari, you will be able to unblock any site. The main thing is that you have a good VPN service like VeePN. With it, you will be safe and get access to 2500+ VPN servers.

#4 Line up your references

You’ll want to have three to five references for your job search, even if you haven’t been in touch with them recently. Give them a call to update their contact information. Ideally, former bosses make great references, but if they wouldn’t provide a positive recommendation, it’s okay to approach a colleague you’ve worked closely with or even your boss’s boss. Vendors you’ve worked with can also serve as excellent references. An added benefit is that when you reach out to them, they might be aware of other job opportunities you can explore.

#5 Learn a new skill

By acquiring an exciting new skill related to your profession, you can boost your confidence and find renewed energy. It allows you to connect with like-minded individuals who are enthusiastic about utilizing their talents. Building a network of professionals in your industry can expose you to fresh opportunities, while also bolstering your resume and demonstrating your commitment to personal and professional development.

#6 Contact companies directly

Instead of solely relying on job boards, consider reaching out to companies directly as part of your job search strategy. Locate the hiring manager’s email address and send your CV, along with a cover letter if necessary. By doing so, they may be more motivated to respond since they can avoid costly recruiter fees if they hire you. Here’s a tip: Visit the company’s career website, find the job ad you’re interested in, and identify the person responsible for hiring. If the name is not provided, check if the same job ad is posted on LinkedIn, as it usually includes the name of the hiring manager. To find their email address, you can use a tool like hunter.io. Take initiative and contact them directly.

#7 Participate in job fairs

Job fairs, held at various times throughout the year, provide an opportunity to meet employers who are directly hiring. Beforehand, conduct research to learn which organizations will be attending. Then, focus on the companies that interest you the most and gather more information about them. Your preparedness will shine through when you speak with the employers at the fair, making it more likely that they will remember you at the end of the day. You might even land an interview right then and there.

Conclusion

Your chances of getting the job of your dreams will greatly increase if you follow these guidelines. First, you can weed out what doesn’t suit you. Secondly, you will be able to present yourself more favourably. Thirdly, you will be able to speak in the interview more accurately and effectively. Ultimately, you will definitely find a job and you will no longer be afraid to look for something new.

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