Start your journey, make every step count! Whether you’re exploring your options, thinking about training, or ready to start work, the National Careers Service is here to help you take the next step.

Get FREE support from National Careers Service

Our careers advisers can help you:

• Explore opportunities: Find apprenticeships, internships, work trials, work placements, and volunteering opportunities so you can try out a role before committing to it as a career.
  
  
• Identify your skills and interests: We’ll help you recognise the transferable skills you’ve gained through work, training, or hobbies. By understanding what motivates you, we can guide you in matching your strengths and interests to suitable career opportunities.
  
  
• Access learning options: Discover online and in-person courses near you to build your skills and improve your employability.

Read our top tips for finding and securing your next role:

Where to find job vacancies

• Attend events: Local job fairs, recruitment events, and training schemes are great ways to meet employers directly.
  
  
• Use job boards: Popular sites like CV Library, Indeed, Reed, and Monster let you search by location, industry, and job type.
  
  
• Sign up for alerts: Most job boards allow email notifications for new roles, so you never miss an opportunity.
  
  
• Leverage your network: Many jobs are filled through word of mouth. Let friends, family, and professional contacts know you’re looking.

Taking the initiative with employers

• Reach out proactively: Contact employers even if no job is advertised.
  
  
• Send tailored applications: Share a customised CV and short cover letter with local businesses.
  
  
• Be professional and enthusiastic: Politeness, professionalism, and genuine interest make you stand out.

Writing a CV that stands out

• Keep it concise: Aim for no more than two pages. Use headings and bullet points for clarity.
  
  
• Highlight relevant skills: If you’re new to the job market, focus on skills gained from projects, volunteering, or previous work experience. You can also include hobbies that show transferable skills, like leadership from being a sports team captain.
  
  
• Tailor your CV: Adjust your CV for each job, highlighting the skills listed in the job advert.
  
  
• Use action words: Words like organised, supported, created make your achievements shine.

Interview tips: Make a great impression

• Prepare in advance: Getting ready ahead of time boosts confidence.
  
  
• Arrive on time: Aim to be ready 5–10 minutes early, and dress appropriately.
  
  
• Practice your answers: Prepare a short introduction and rehearse responses using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
  
  
• Show curiosity: Ask a few thoughtful questions about the role or company at the end.
  
  

Need Personalised Support?

The National Careers Service offers free, impartial, and confidential advice at any stage of your career. Whether you need help with CV writing, interview preparation, or finding training, learning, or work opportunities, we are here to support you.

Call 0800 100 900 to speak with an adviser and take the next step towards your future.