Stories

Wed, 24 Jun 2026

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 I've spent 30 years in recruitment - this is how to get a job

The recruitment agency boss shares his tips on getting noticed in a tougher jobs market.

* Mirror the job description with your skills and experience in your CV or cover letter.
* Be honest and don't lie about your qualifications or experience.
* Build experience wherever possible, even if it's temporary, casual or part-time.
* Make sure your CV says who you are and is clear and concise.
* Pay attention to detail when writing your CV, including grammar and spelling.
* Learn to express yourself effectively through communication, collaboration, and resilience.
* Be prepared for interviews and think about how you can solve the employer's problems. And here are some additional comments from James Reed:
* Employers use AI systems to screen applications, but this should not replace human judgment.
* It's a good idea to have experience of working with others, as employers value teamwork and collaboration.
* Resilience is key when job-hunting can be a long and frustrating process.
* University may not be the right route for everyone, and apprenticeships or direct entry into work are viable alternatives.