Are you looking to get a job in London? Job hunting is definitely different as compared to other places in the capital of England. If you are new to the city and just took a taxi to heathrow or it is your first time job hunting, then this post will you your ultimate guide to job hunting in London.
London is the most vibrant and exciting city in all of Europe. It is the New York City of Europe. It is filled with history and yet, it is also very modern. In order to make it in this city, you need to be able to quickly adapt. The following are some of the most helpful tips for job hunting in London that been prepared after experiencing work in the city firsthand.
- Experience is Valued Most
When it comes to job hunting in London, most employers want to know that you can get the job done efficiently. Don’t be mistaken by thinking that employers care more about the university one studied in or the degree they hold. It all comes down to experience. The downside of this is that companies would want to see that one has already worked in London and are familiar with the work culture in a multi-cultural environment. This is why you need to start out by getting some experience to show employers that you can work in London. Your chances would be best if you had already worked in London.
- Just London Jobs
One of the most useful places to find out more information about job hunting in London is Just London Jobs. It is a great platform to learn about the ins and outs of working in London. Employers want to be ensured that you know about the working culture in London and there are certain things which only a common Londoner would be able to do. So, make sure to check out the platform.
- Job Applicants Get Swift Replies
If you apply for job that had been posted, you should get a quick reply to your application. However, if the application was speculative, then it would be the opposite case. The reason behind this is due to the fact that companies usually outsource recruitment and have their own recruiters who do the job of finding talent for them and this allows the job applicants to receive quick replies. The truth is that most companies let recruitment agencies do all the work for them. These agencies are the intermediary between the job seeker and the company.
- Connections Are Everything
One of the most helpful tips for job hunting in London is that networking and knowing people is what gets you introduced to employers. Recommendations come in handy and companies do not like to hire someone they don’t know at all or if no one can vouch for them. This can either work in your favor or against it. What you need to do is go to events and talk to people. Show them your skills and let everyone you know, know that you are looking for a job. Connections are your golden ticket to getting a job in London.
- Do As Many Interviews as Possible
Try to do many interviews. It will be extremely useful. You never know what could happen in a city like London. Knowing the right people is vital. The person that interviews you could be the one that leads you for your new job. Sometimes, you can impress an employer even though the employer might be looking for someone else and they might end up recommending you to someone else through an email or call. Remember, companies have close relations with other companies and this could work in your favor.
- Expect Many Rounds of Assessments and Interviews
The thing about London is that if you do not getting an appointment letter after that first or second interview, you should expect many rounds of assessments and interviews. Don’t be scared. If they keep calling you for more interviews, it only means that they are interested in hiring you and just want to be 100 percent sure about hiring you. The goal of these rounds is to know you better. Besides, telling your story over and over again to different executives only makes you a professional storyteller of your life.
- Skype Interviews Are Usual
Interviewing is mostly done through Skype in London. So, you should get used to presenting your best self over a Skype call. Even if the office is nearby, Skype is the preferred option for employers in London. Therefore, put on your headphones and listen carefully to what the HR manager has to say as it shows that you are a professional who is interested in getting the job.
- Test Projects Are Common
There is no need to be surprised about test projects as they are very common in London. It allows the employer to see your expertise and you are given the opportunity to truly showoff your skills. The projects involve a great amount of research and creativity if you want to succeed. Therefore, you might want to get your thinking hat on to impress the employer.
- Temporary Contracts Are Given First
Even if you apply for a full-time job, you would get a temporary contract before you receive a permanent contract. You would have to work for a stipulated time period which could range from 3 to 6 months depending on the nature of the job. If the employer is happy with the work, then you should get a permanent contract. However, there is one downside to this and that is the fact that the employer can easily fire you if you do not do a good job.
- Have an Impressive LinkedIn Profile
Finally, it cannot be stressed enough how important an impressive LinkedIn profile is. Everyone that lives in London has an amazing LinkedIn profile that has been super polished. This means that the profile should have many approved skills and recommendations. It might sound like hard work at first, but it is really worth it.