Recruiters - Advice on job hunting in October

If you're looking for a specific role, find one or two specialist recruitment agencies to partner with. It's worth asking for recommendations and checking out their reviews online. It's all about quality over quantity. Partnering with an agency that spends the time getting to know you and are experts in placing similar roles is crucial, as they'll be able to sell you to their client and secure you a competitive salary, saving you time and doing a lot of the work for you. December can still be a good time to search for a role, but you should expect the interview process to take longer than usual.

Finding the right job can be a full-time job in itself. Make a list of your requirements and stay focused. Don't get distracted and end up pigeonholed into a role you don't want by an over-enthusiastic recruiter. Tailor your CV and a bespoke covering letter telling the employer why them. Do your research, get creative, and go beyond the pedestrian website search. Look them up on companies' house, and their social media. If you can connect with someone who works there, ask them what it's like. Finally, during the interview stay curious, and ask questions, as this demonstrates your interest.

Do not apply to jobs that are not relevant to your skillset and when you do apply make sure to tailor your CV so that your key attributes stand out against the role. Far too many candidates apply for jobs where they have less that 20% of the skillset needed in order to apply and it simply wastes everyone's time. Get yourself a good recruiter.