If you’re on the hunt for a new job, you might be getting tired of filling in endless applications online, sending them in for consideration, and never hearing back from the company in question. The search for a new role can feel never-ending when your written applications don’t seem to be getting anywhere - whether you're seeking a temporary PA job, your dream office manager role, or a permanent office support placement.
So if you’re not having much success, maybe it’s time to try a different approach entirely. There are plenty of ways you can get yourself an interview with a company without going through the official channels – you just have to be prepared to think outside the box. As an experienced London recruitment agency, we know some top ways to bag an interview through a slightly unconventional channel, and we'd love to share them with you!
Seek referrals
If you see a job posting that you’d like to apply for, but don’t fancy your chances going through the application process, see if you can find someone at the company who could refer you to the hiring manager. If you have a friend or a LinkedIn contact who works there (or knows someone who works there – connections are useful), you could ask them to pass on your CV and increase your chances of being at the top of the pile.
Network
We know that the phrase ‘networking event’ can make some people shudder, but these events really are great opportunities to meet some useful contacts who could help you find a great job. Make sure you follow up with the people you meet, and ask them to keep you in mind when they next have an opening in their department.
Don’t pigeon-hole yourself
If a company is expanding an entire department with numerous roles that you feel qualified for, don’t just limit yourself to applying for one of these positions. Bypass the application process and contact the hiring manager directly. Rather than sending a CV, send an example of your work so that they can truly see what you’re capable of. They may end up deciding you’re well-suited to one or more of their available positions, and invite you in for a meeting.
Reach out to recruiters
Research some of the top recruiters within the industry you’re trying to break into and contact them directly. You can usually find them on LinkedIn. Send over a message explaining that you’re looking for a new challenge and would be happy to connect if they feel that any of their clients’ needs align with your skill set. Recruiters are always better placed to secure interviews than applicants – so you could find yourself arranging meetings faster than you thought.
Make sure you’re visible online
Attracting attention online can be a great way to secure an interview. Optimise your social media profiles (especially LinkedIn), and consider building a simple website for yourself, with information about your skills and some samples of your past work. Many recruiters and employers now use LinkedIn and Google searches to find appropriate candidates for roles, so make sure you’re as visible as possible.
For all the latest job interview tips and advice to help you gain your dream role as a top PA in London or further afield, stay tuned to the Love Success blog!
Love Success is a leading PA and secretarial recruitment agency in London.
Our recruiters can help you find top PA jobs in London and Office Support jobs.
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