Whether you're a seasoned professional or just looking to restart your career journey, looking for a job can be a long, tedious process. According to Statista, the number of employed people in the United Kingdom was forecast to continuously increase between 2023 and 2024 by 0.1 million people. 

Taking on board innovative strategies can set you apart from other candidates and help you land the right opportunity. These creative tips will empower you to approach your job search with renewed enthusiasm and achieve your career aspirations.

In this blog, you will learn:

• How to be creative when searching for a job
• The best ways to find a job in 2024
• 9 creative tips to stay ahead of the hiring market
• How to find and apply for the best jobs

1. Create a plan of action

Before starting your job search, reflect on what it is you want to do, enjoy and what industry you want to work in. You want the roles you’re applying for to be suitable to your level of skill and experience. 

Many jobseekers waste hours applying for unsuitable roles and wonder why they don’t get a response from employers. Make sure you have realistically assessed your skills and experiences before taking the time to apply for anything. 

2. Incorporate keywords

Using keywords in your CV can highlight your work-related skills and experience. Using keywords that match the specific job can help the hiring manager evaluate your qualifications and determine if you are a good fit for the job. 

One of the best ways to find keywords is to re-read the job description and any available information you have on the position or company. Incorporate those keywords into your online profile and CV - especially in the skills and qualifications section.

Use keywords in your job search too! Google requires keywords in its search engine for the best results, and job hunting is no different! Utilising keywords in your job search will make it easier to find an organisation that aligns with your values and that meets your idea of a good company.

3. Use social media

Instead of just relying on your CV to do all the work, why not increase your online presence? Fill your social media with useful content that describes your skills and shows your personality. Make sure your online profiles are unique and full of varied information. 

According to StandOut CV 90% of job seekers use LinkedIn followed by X (formerly Twitter), Glassdoor, Facebook and Instagram. Your social profile can attract job offers, collaborations, and encourage discussions relevant to your field. Social media platforms can showcase your achievements, projects, and skills and reflect your experience and qualifications. 

You could also develop an online networking strategy. Use hashtags to find relevant discussions and to increase engagement on your social media posts. This way, your posts will be more searchable to recruiters and could also gain you some influential followers.

4. Network and communicate

At networking events, you can find ways to get work experience, grow your reputation or even get recommended for a job. Get creative and participate in conferences, seminars and workshops to expand your network, build relationships or learn more about a career or company. 

These gatherings are great opportunities to meet like-minded professionals and experts and find out if their goals match yours. Networking isn’t just about what others can do for you but also about how you can contribute to the professional community. 

Can’t make an in-person event? There are plenty of online communities, webinars and virtual meet-ups. Or, why not organise a virtual networking event focused on a topic relevant to your industry. Great networking will position you as a connector and an industry expert.

5. Make speculative approaches

Put yourself out there! If the opportunities to meet professionals aren't there, be proactive and make it happen! Reach out to professionals for informational interviews to gather insights about the industry. 

This is a short, informal meeting where you talk to a professional about their role and the company they work for. Make a good impression so that they will remember you positively. Or why not contact a company/organisation (even when they’re not advertising vacancies) to show your interest and maybe even catch an unadvertised opportunity! 

 6. Learn new skills

It is crucial in a world where technology, industries and job requirements are evolving to learn or acquire new skills. Upskilling equips you with the latest skills and knowledge, making you a valuable asset to your current employer and a more attractive candidate to potential employers. 

As you apply for jobs, add to and enhance your skills and qualifications to stay relevant and competitive in the rapidly changing job market. Upskilling events and courses provide opportunities to connect with professionals in your field, expand your network and potentially lead to valuable collaborations.

7. Create your own personal brand

Create and maintain a personal brand that reflects your expertise and values. Your personal brand is how you define the distinctive value that you bring to your career. It has the potential to enhance your employability and professional reputation based on your unique abilities and expertise. 

By establishing an image that represents you and the value you bring to your professional field, you can strengthen your connections and open doors to various avenues of success. Once you’ve created your personal brand, maintain it! Your brand should be consistent across all your professional interactions, but it will constantly evolve.

8. Get visual

It never hurts to think outside of the box! The best way to be creative in your job search in 2024 is to be creative. When it comes to tailoring your CV, you could change the way it is presented to catch the eye of the hiring manager! 

Ways to creatively display your CV

Four ways to creatively display your CV include:

• Utilise an online portfolio
• Infographics to highlight key achievements
• Links to blogs or websites to showcase your work and projects
• Use videos or posters instead of documents

9. Keep your options open

Don’t be afraid to change your career goals. Enhance your employability by considering other options. New job roles are being created all the time and it may be that with the right training and support you could be perfect for the job! A hybrid or remote role enables you to make connections and build relationships, gain experience and knowledge of the business.

You could also consider a temporary position. It would get your foot in the door and it could build a relationship that may be beneficial later should a permanent position become available. 

For more in-depth job search tips, check out our guide, 24 job search tips for 2024.

Who is Spencer Clarke Group?

Since 2017, we’ve been reshaping and innovating the recruitment industry beyond the mechanics of recruitment. From the very heart of our organisation to the way we conduct business, a profound commitment to effecting positive change has profoundly driven us. 

Recruitment to us isn't just about matching candidates and clients; we’re passionate about finding candidates the perfect job which has the ability to boost their salary and standard of living, better their work life balance and improve their mental health. 

As we continue to evolve, our commitment to creating a positive influence resonates across every interaction. From individuals seeking their next career leap to enterprises aiming for unprecedented growth, we're unwavering in our resolve to shape a brighter, more fulfilling future for all.

We operate in two sectors:

Private Sector

Public Sector 

In eleven specialisms:

Accountancy & Finance

Education & SEND

Construction, Trades & Labour

Healthcare, Social Care & Nursing

Housing

Corporate Functions & Business Support

HR & Workforce Development

IT & Digital

Property & Asset Management  

Planning, Development & Regeneration 

Highways, Infrastructure & Engineering

If you’re struggling to fill a role, why don’t you contact us on 01772 954200 to see how we can help? One of our consultants will be happy to listen to the challenges which you are facing and advise on the best possible solution for you.