How to find your dream first job

You’ve had a great time at college and learned a lot, but now the time has come to look for a job. So, where do you start?

If you’re currently studying an automotive qualification, the chances are that you’ll want a job in the motor industry at the end of it. But where should you start the search?

Well, there are a number of websites dedicated to exactly that. The likes of IMI Auto Jobs, GetMyFirstJob and Auto Skills UK are all great places to look.

But you don’t have to restrict yourself to those platforms. There are an enormous range of recruitment websites and job listings sites to delve into, and you never know what you may find. Some of the biggest are Reed, Jobsite, TotalJobs and Monster. If you’re looking to work for a particular company or brand, it’s best to go direct to its website. Chances are it’ll have a “Careers” or “Work with us” section where any vacancies will be posted. And as an extra tip, store them in your favourites so you don’t lose them.

Get connecting

Of course, your job search needn’t keep you chained to a computer. There are a number of ways you can find a job through face-to-face interactions. This also has the advantage of allowing you to ask more questions to figure out if the job is for you and if you’re right for it. Some easy ways to network include:

Your college’s careers adviser: If you’re studying at a college, you should have a careers adviser based on campus. If you don’t know where to find them, ask your tutor and start asking questions. It’s what they’re there for.

Recruitment agencies: They’ll do some of the work for you. You may have to meet them first, tell them what you’re looking for and what your skills are, but then they’ll find appropriate jobs for you. Just search for “Recruitment agencies” online, and it should come up with ones local to you.

Word of mouth: It’s estimated that 60% of jobs are filled by word of mouth, so speak to friends, family, neighbours, local businesses – basically anyone you can think of – and let them know that you’re looking for work. You never know, your neighbour’s cousin’s husband might be looking for someone just like you!

Social media: It’s not just for selfies and sharing articles. Start following companies you’d like to work for, because they will sometimes advertise vacancies online.

Stop the presses!

Local newspapers might sound like an old-school approach to job-hunting, but many employers still advertise in newspapers, so have a look before it gets put out for recycling.

And don’t forget – if you don’t ask, you don’t get. It’s always worth just trying your luck. Send emails or letters (including your CV) to companies, even if they’re not actively recruiting. It’ll show that you’re keen, and they might keep your details on file.

Or, instead of asking for a full-time position, you could try another tack. Work experience and temp work can both lead to permanent positions, and even if they don’t it’s good experience that you can add to your CV, making you more attractive as you continue your search. Good luck!

Explore the IMI’s list of links to careers websites and manufacturer vacancies at autocity.org.uk

Libby Lovick is Student Member Engagement Officer at the IMI

This is an edited extract from IMI's new MotorPro magazine, received free as part of IMI membership.