Career Guide for Job Seekers

The 2022 Ultimate Career Guide for Job Seekers

Looking for a job can be a daunting and time-consuming task, but with the right preparation it can also be an exciting opportunity to start fresh and take your career in a new direction. Whether you're currently unemployed and seeking new employment, or employed and looking for a change, there are a few important things you need to know about job searching in Australia and how finding a job with a recruitment agency can be of benefit to you.

The process of job searching generally involves a few key steps: research, application, interview and selection. Depending on the role you're applying for, the competition for jobs can be fierce, so it's important to make sure your application is as strong as possible.

There are a number of great resources available to help you with your job search, including government initiatives, websites and professional organisations. With a little bit of effort, you can find the perfect role to suit your skills and experience. As part of a leading recruitment company in Perth and Melbourne, our team at TRS Resourcing has helped hundreds of job seekers find employment in industries ranging from mining to architecture. Whether you're a trade qualified boilermaker, welder or an experienced interior designer, we'll share our inside knowledge with you on what it takes to find a great job.

Looking for a job in Australia? Check out our guide on job searching to learn more about the process and what you need to know. From researching potential roles to attending interviews, we'll give you the inside scoop on how to land your dream job.

DOWNLOAD YOUR 2022 ULTIMATE JOB SEARCHING GUIDE HERE!

"Before you begin your job search you need to know what you're looking for. What kind of role are you seeking? What industry do you want to work in? What location and environment would you like to work in? When you start your job search with a career plan, you're more likely to be successful in finding the right job for you."

PLANNING YOUR CAREER PATH

Planning out your career can be a daunting task, especially if you're starting a new job or seeking to change careers. But with the right advice, you can map out a clear path to success. Here are some top tips from our expert TRS Recruitment Consultants:

Define your goals
What do you want to achieve in your career? Write down your goals and make sure they are SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and time-bound).
Research your options
Explore different career paths and research the skills and experience you'll need to progress. Talk to people who are already working in the field you're interested in and ask for their advice. Figure out where the job opportunities are in your field, and whether you'd be willing to relocate to pursue your dream.
Create a plan
Once you've defined your goals and researched your options, it's time to create a plan. This should include steps such as completing relevant qualifications, gaining experience and networking with industry contacts.
Take action
It's important to take action and not just sit back and wait for things to happen. Start working towards your goals and make the most of opportunities that come your way.
Be flexible
Career planning is not an exact science, so be prepared to make changes along the way. Be flexible and open to new opportunities, and don't be afraid to change your plans if something better comes along. As long as you're continually learning and improving your skills, you'll be able to capitalise on opportunities that may come your way.

TRS Resourcing is a leading recruitment specialist, so we know a thing or two about career planning. If you need any further advice, please don't hesitate to get in touch. We'd be more than happy to help you map out your ideal career path.

LEARN HOW TO PLAN YOUR CAREER HERE!

"Now that you know what your job ambitions are, how do you resign from your current role? In Australia, the best way to resign professionally is to hand in a simple resignation letter."

HOW TO WRITE A RESIGNATION LETTER

When you decide to leave your job, it is important to do so in a professional and positive manner. A resignation letter is the best way to do this. By writing a resignation letter, you are giving your employer advance notice of your departure and are providing them with an opportunity to ask any questions or discuss any concerns they may have. You are also giving them time to find a replacement for you. So how do you write a good resignation letter?

Be clear about your intention to resign
There are a few things that you should include in your resignation letter, such as the date of your last day, a brief explanation of your reasons for leaving, and a thank you for the opportunity to work at the company. You may also want to mention any positive experiences or highlights from your time at the company.
Avoid spelling or grammar mistakes by proofreading your letter
When writing your resignation letter, be sure to proofread it carefully. You want to make sure that there are no mistakes or typos. Once you have double checked for any errors, go ahead and send the letter to your employer or hand it to them directly.
Be professional at all times
Assuming you have a good relationship with your boss, it is also a good idea to schedule a meeting with them to discuss your resignation in person. This way, you can thank them for the opportunity to work at the company and smooth over any potential hard feelings. Remember, you may need to ask them for a reference in the future.
Keep it Simple
Now that you know what to include in your resignation letter, you may be wondering how to format it. There are a few different ways that you can do this, but there are also some things that you should avoid.

When it comes to the format of your resignation letter, there is no need to get too fancy. A simple, professional letter will do. It doesn't matter if it is short, as long as you've been specific about when you intend to leave. You don't need to go into detail about why you are quitting or why you've chosen your new job.
Resignation Letter Templates
The following are a few resignation letter templates that you can use as a starting point for your own letter.

Here's a simple example:

Dear EMPLOYER NAME,

I am writing to inform you that I am resigning from my position as JOB TITLE with COMPANY NAME. My last day of work will be DATE .

I would like to thank you for the opportunity to work at COMPANY NAME. I have enjoyed my time here and have learned a lot.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,

YOUR NAME

Find more resignation letter templates at: Seek, Indeed, Fair Work Ombudsman

"What do you do if you didn’t resign, but were fired or laid off without warning?"

LOST YOUR JOB, NOW WHAT?

It's tough to lose your job unexpectedly. You may be one of the many people who experienced being suddenly out of work during the Covid-19 pandemic due to no fault of your own. Whether you were laid off or fired, it's a shock that can leave you feeling scared and alone. You may be wondering: what now? But don't despair – there are things you can do to pick yourself up and start moving forward again.

First, take some time to grieve.
It's normal to feel sad, angry, or even shocked after losing your job. Allow yourself to process these emotions before taking any further steps.
Next, assess your financial situation.
If you have a good savings cushion, you may be able to afford to take some time off to figure out your next steps. However, if you're worried about making ends meet, start looking for new employment as soon as possible. Update your resume and start applying for jobs. Even if you're not sure what you want to do next, it's important to get the ball rolling. Applying for jobs will help you gain clarity on what kinds of roles you're interested in and also give you a confidence boost.
Network, network, network.
Reach out to your professional contacts and let them know you're looking for a new opportunity. Attend online or in-person networking events. Get involved with your local professional organisations.
Finally, take some time for yourself.
Use this as an opportunity to assess what you want out of your career. You may even benefit from investing in upskilling while you have time on your hands.

"TRS Recruitment Consultants have helped countless jobseekers apply for new roles with leading Australian businesses. At TRS, we are passionate about supporting candidates to put their best foot forward while looking for work. Visit our Jobs page and get the ball rolling on your job search today."

LOST YOUR JOB, NOW WHAT? READ MORE HERE!

HOW TO FIND A JOB DURING COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in mass layoffs and an increase in unemployment rates across the globe. Although we are past the point of lockdowns and business closure in Australia, and unemployment rates have returned to low levels, many people are still looking for a new job or hoping to change careers. If you're currently searching for a job, you may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to start. However, there are still many companies hiring during this time, so it's important to know how to conduct an effective job search.

Here are a few tips to help you find a job during COVID-19:

Use job search engines and websites
There are many online resources that can help you find a job during COVID-19. Start by using job search engines like Indeed, Seek, and LinkedIn. You can also check out specific company websites, as many are still hiring despite the pandemic.
Utilise your network
Your professional and personal networks can be a great resource when searching for a job. Let your contacts know that you're looking for work and see if they have any leads or recommendations.
Stay positive and don't give up
It's easy to get discouraged when job searching, but it's important to stay positive and keep trying. Remember that there are still many companies hiring during this time, so don't give up hope.
Be flexible
Be open to different types of positions and industries when job searching during COVID-19. Many companies are looking for workers in a variety of fields, so don't limit your search to only your desired occupation.
Be prepared for virtual interviews
With many companies working remotely, it's likely that you'll have a virtual interview at some point during your job search. You may even have to interview with an AI. Be prepared by doing a test run with a friend or family member and practising your answers to common interview questions.

"These are just a few tips to help you find a job during COVID-19. For more advice, be sure to check out our other blog posts on job searching and career development, or dive deeper into
How to Find a Job During Covid-19."

LOST YOUR JOB DUE TO COVID-19? FIND OUT HOW WE CAN HELP?

HOW TO APPLY FOR JOBS

There are two documents you’ll have to submit for just about every job application: a CV (or resume) and a cover letter. Having a standout CV and cover letter can greatly increase your chance of landing an interview. TRS Recruitment Consultants read hundreds of resumes every year and know what works to present your skills and experience in the best light. Keep reading to find out what you can do to write a standout cv and a winning cover letter.

TIPS TO WRITE A STAND OUT CV

Your CV or resume is your first opportunity to make a good impression on a potential employer. In order to stand out from the competition, you need to create a cv that is both professional and unique.

Here are our top tips to help you write a standout cv:

Highlight your key skills and qualifications
Use keywords that are relevant to the job you are applying for and make sure they are included in your CV. These keywords (which you will find in the job ad) may be used to screen resumes before they are read by someone in HR. Use action words to describe your accomplishments in previous roles. If you have any industry-specific qualifications or expertise, be sure to include them as well.
Focus on what makes you unique and why you would be an asset to the company
Employers are more interested in hearing about what you can bring to them than what they can do for you. Instead of focussing on how this role would elevate your career, talk about the specific skills you have that would help you succeed in the role. Use examples of experiences you've had in the workplace to demonstrate why you would be a great fit for their company culture and values.
Don't forget the little details
Make sure your contact information is up-to-date and that you have a professional sounding email address. Check your CV for any typos or grammatical errors before sending it off. And finally, don't forget to tailor your CV to each specific job you are applying for. Remove unnecessary information to keep your CV short - this way it's more likely to be read the whole way through. By following these tips, you can be sure that your CV will make a lasting impression on potential employers.

TRS CV Template for Jobseekers

"If you want to save time and stress writing and editing your CV, TRS can help. With our free online CV Generator you can create a resume in minutes. Simply fill in your details, skills, and work experience and instantly receive a ready-to-use CV via email. Check out our blog for more tips to write a standout cv."

HOW TO WRITE A COVER LETTER

A cover letter is a document sent with your resume to provide additional information on your skills and experience that are relevant to the role. The letter provides an opportunity to introduce yourself to an employer, express your interest in the company or a specific job, and request an opportunity for an interview.

Here are our 5 steps to crafting a winning cover letter:

Address your letter to the right person
If you know the name of the person who will be reading your letter, include it in the opening. If you do not know the name, use a generic greeting such as “Dear Hiring Manager.”
Start with a strong Opening Statement
The opening statement should express your interest in the position and where you saw the role advertised. This is your chance to grab the reader's attention so that they will keep reading.
Be specific
Explain exactly why your qualifications and experience fit the role. Refer to the skills listed in the job ad and the company's values - it shows that you've done your research, and aren't just sending a generic letter to every company.
Keep it short
Your cover letter doesn't need to be longer than a page. If it's too long, it won't be read. A short and succinct cover letter is all you need, so focus on the key requirements for the job and how you can fulfil them.
Finish with a call to action
Indicate your willingness to meet for an interview, and include a way for you to be contacted (such as a phone number).

MORE TIPS ON HOW TO WRITE A COVER LETTER HERE!

COVER LETTER TEMPLATE

At TRS, Recruitment is our passion - we want you to succeed in your job search. Our free online cover letter generator is an easy way to write a great cover letter in less than 5 minutes. Save time by customising your letter to each position with your relevant skills and experience. For more information read our full guide on How to Write a Cover Letter.

Now that you have a great CV and cover letter that highlight your skills, experience and qualifications, you can begin applying for jobs. One of the hardest parts of job searching is waiting for an interview. Sometimes you can send off ten applications and never get a response. It’s important to take rejection in your stride and continue with determination. Patience is needed as you never know when the phone will ring with an employer offering you a chance.

GENERATE YOUR FREE COVER LETTER HERE!

"When you do land an interview, what can you do to increase your chances of being offered the job?"

THE JOB INTERVIEW

Getting an interview is a great accomplishment in your job search. Once you've landed an interview, it's important to remember that the way you dress for an interview says a lot about you as a person and as a professional.

While the old saying goes "you can't judge a book by its cover," the reality is that people do judge others by their appearance. In fact, studies show that people make judgments about others within the first seven seconds of meeting them. That's why it's so important to dress for success when you go to a job interview.

But dressing well isn’t the only factor - you need to back it up with substance, professionalism and good communication. That’s where we can help.
Our TRS Resourcing Recruitment company guides on what to wear to an interview and 5 job interview tips can help you to make a lasting impression on potential employers and help you get the job you want.

WHAT TO WEAR TO A JOB INTERVIEW

When it comes to nailing a job interview, the clothes you wear can matter just as much as your qualifications. After all, first impressions are key, and you want to present yourself in the best possible light. But with so many different types of workplaces out there, it can be hard to know what to wear to an interview.

Here are some general rules to follow for your job interview outfit:

Make sure your clothes are clean and wrinkle-free
Don't wear anything with an offensive slogan on it
Try to match the workplace environment (when in doubt, dress more formal)
Keep good personal hygiene
Wear clothes that you are comfortable and feel good in - this will boost your confidence in the interview (if you are visibly uncomfortable, this could present as nervousness)

What about specific dress codes for different workplace environments? Here are our tips for what to wear when interviewing for various types of jobs:

Corporate Office

Formal business attire is suitable for a corporate interview. A smart, tailored suit paired with a solid colour shirt will always look professional (for both men and women). Men should ensure their dress shoes are polished, and choose a single colour suit over patterns. Women may wear a dress or suit with blouse or button-down shirt. Choose materials that look smart, and ensure that accessories are neat, and hair is tidy.

Business Casual

For creative industries or more casual offices, a full suit may not be required. In a business casual environment you can be more relaxed wearing louder colours or prints. Men may wear chinos and a button up, and women dress pants or a skirt and blouse. Comfortable footwear is acceptable (but don't show up in thongs).

Blue Collar

Showing up to a trades interview at a workshop in a suit and tie could make you immediately appear out of place. Casual attire (such as a nice pair of jeans and a solid coloured shirt) is acceptable for a blue collar interview, but make sure you get a feel for the company culture ahead of time. If work boots are required, wear appropriate footwear to signal you are prepared for the role.

Above all, dressing well for an interview shows you respect your work and lets your skills and experience shine without any distractions. Looking and feeling confident can help you impress your future employer and land your dream role.

FOR MORE JOB INTERVIEW ATTIRE TIPS VISIT HERE!

5 Job Interview Tips to Make a Great Impression

When you're interviewing for a job, first impressions are everything. The way you dress, the way you speak, and the way you carry yourself can all influence whether or not you get the job. Our TRS Recruitment consultants regularly hold interviews with candidates and know exactly what it takes to get the job.

Here are our five top tips to help you make a great impression and increase your chances of getting the job:

Dress for success
Wear clothes that are professional and appropriate for the job you're interviewing for.
Arrive early
Get to the interview location a few minutes early so you're not rushed or flustered.
Be prepared
Know your resume inside and out and be ready to answer questions about your experience and skills. This can help you make a great impression and put your best foot forward in the interview process.
Do your research
Don’t go into an interview without researching the company. Know their industry, mission and values. This shows that you care about becoming part of their business and take your interview seriously. Doing your research will also help you ask informed questions about the company when your turn arises, which will make you stand out to the employer.
Be confident
Sit up straight, make eye contact, and speak clearly. Show that you're excited about the opportunity and believe in yourself.
By following these tips, you can make a great impression and increase your chances of getting the job. Remember, your skills and experience are unique to you, so be confident in knowing what you bring to the table.

Want to know more? Check out the TRS blog for more tips on how to nail any job interview.

10 Most Common Interview Questions and Answers

Looking for a job in Australia can be a daunting task, but being prepared for your job interview is a great way to set yourself up for success. At TRS Resourcing, we've interviewed hundreds of candidates across Victoria and Western Australia, so we know what works and what doesn't.

How can you put your best foot forward in the interview? By preparing a few answers to common questions before you show up, you’ll appear more confident and will be armed with relevant examples to back up your skills.

"To help you get started, we've compiled a list of 10 common job interview questions and answers that you're likely to encounter in your next interview."

1. Tell me about yourself

2. Why do you want this job?

3. Why should we hire you?

4. What are your strong points?

5. What are your weak points?

6. Tell us about a time when you overcame a challenge/solved a problem at work

7. What do you know about our company?

8. Tell me about a time that you made a mistake. How did you handle it?

9. Why are you leaving your current job?

10. Do you have any questions for me?

If you've done your research on the company and the position, and are engaged and responsive throughout the interview, you'll give yourself the best chance to land the role. For more tips and how to prepare answers for each of the questions above, read our blog on the 10 Most Common Interview Questions and Answers in Australia.

Job Searching with a Recruitment Company

When you’re job searching, working with a recruitment company can give you a big advantage. A professional recruiter will work with you to identify your skills and experience, and then match you with the right jobs. They can also give you helpful feedback on your CV and interview skills. If you type in google “where are welding jobs in melbourne” or “where are trades jobs in Perth” more often than not the piece of content for a recruitment agency or a job board such as Seek, indeed or gumtree will appear first in your job search.

Recruitment companies work with a broad range of clients, from big multinational companies to smaller local businesses. This means that you have access to many more jobs than if you were just applying on job boards or through your network. The job search process can be a lengthy one, so working with recruiters is often the best way to ensure that you progress quickly and efficiently. And by making sure that your CV and interview skills are top notch, you’ll be in a great position to land your dream job.

Read the testimonials from our valued candidates and clients to see why TRS Resourcing is a professional recruitment company you can trust. We pride ourselves on offering specialised TRS Recruitment services with integrity in Western Australia and Victoria.

10 REASONS TO USE THE SERVICES OF A RECRUITMENT AGENCY TO FIND A JOB

You may be wondering: what exactly is the benefit of job searching with a recruitment agency? Here are our top ten reasons to use the services of a labour hire company to find work:

Access to More Job Openings Sooner
It's Free
Expertise in job seeking and job placement
Guidance from an experienced Recruitment Consultant
Feedback you can trust
Confidentiality
Improved CV and Interview Skills
Save Time
Easy Digital Onboarding Process
Access to More Jobs than Any Other Way

As you can see there are many reasons to use the services of a recruitment agency when looking for a job. Our TRS Recruitment team have access to job openings in a wide range of industries for:

Trades & Services Jobs
Engineering Jobs
Manufacturing Jobs
Mining Jobs
Transport Logistics Jobs
Design & Architecture Jobs
Defence, Emergency & Security Jobs
Agribusiness & Farming Jobs
Drafting and Administration Support Jobs
Trade Assistant Jobs
Warehousing Jobs
Food Processing Jobs
and more jobs here

Our experienced team of TRS Recruitment Consultants have helped hundreds of job seekers find work across Australia, so why not give it a try? Keep reading to find out exactly what qualities a recruitment consultant looks for in candidates, or find out more About Us.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT HOW A RECRUITMENT AGENCY CAN BE OF BENEFIT TO YOU HERE!

WHAT DOES A RECRUITMENT COMPANY LOOK FOR IN CANDIDATES?

what do recruitment agencies look for in candidates

As a leading Recruitment and Labour Hire agency in Melbourne and Perth, our team at TRS Resourcing knows exactly what a labour hire company looks for in candidates. We know the labour market and we want to hire high quality staff who not only have the right qualifications and right to work in Australia, but who also possess qualities that align with our clients' company cultures and work environment. Generally speaking, there are few things that can make you stand out to any recruiter.

In order to find the right candidate, recruitment agencies look for the following qualities:

Reliability
Hard working
Flexibility
Good communication skills
Punctuality
A positive attitude

In addition to these qualities, a labour hire company will also want to see that you have the relevant skills and experience for the job. They will also want to know that you are able to work well as part of a team. If you can demonstrate all of these qualities, then you will be in a strong position to find work through a recruitment company.

The 2022 Ultimate Career Guide

for Job Searching