There are no ifs, ands, or buts, about it, ‘Pivot’ was the verb of 2020. Used to describe the act of adapting to doing business during COVID-19, pivoting – or being responsive to shifts in the external environment – has become the new normal, no matter what industry you’re in.

Here at Asset, we’ve seen the impact the pandemic has had on the recruitment market – both for job seekers and employers. Just over a year on since we emerged from New Zealand’s COVID-19 lockdown and no-one could have predicted the low unemployment rate, nor the recruitment demands occurring across the Waikato.

If you’re seeking a role in the current market, understanding some of the key changes that have occurred over the past 12 months, could help. The Asset Recruitment team looks at how you can best prepare for your job search in today’s market.

Update your CV

Although these days much of our communication can be abbreviated in the form of text messages and emojis, when it comes to applying for a job, a CV is still essential. What’s more, a cover letter is also a standard part of the process.

Here at Asset, we’ve seen a CV or two across our time in business, and we also understand how busy and inundated employers can get. So, what do we like to see?

• A CV that stands out at a glance.
• One that starts strong. Use the prime real estate at the start of the page with a summary on why you’re the best person for the job, or an overview of your key skills and accomplishments related to the advertised role emphasising results rather than responsibilities.
• The content has been tailored to the job, rather than a one-size-fits-all version.
• Your employment history has been listed in chronological order
• No photos or lengthy education blurbs

Search Online

Online job searching tools such as SEEK, Trade Me, and countless other job sites, have shaped the job-seeking market across the past decade. If you’re looking for a job, this is where to start. As the country’s two biggest employment hubs, you can filter, set alerts and create a focused approach to match yourself with employment opportunities.

If you have your sights set on a particular employer, keep an eye on their company websites. Most employers of choice will have a section of their website dedicated to careers and will also provide you with an insight into the company culture.

Create a social presence

Love it or hate it, social media is here to stay. Just like your online presence. So maybe it’s time to get active?

LinkedIn is widely considered to be the professional networking platforms, but do you need it? The short answer is, yes. Recruiters and HR personnel use LinkedIn to search for potential candidates, with 2021 stats showing as high as 87% moving to the online portal to seek insight into employees.

Make sure your profile is up to date, your career, experience and qualifications are current, your posts accurately reflect your professional demeanour, and don’t be shy about making connections. Like the old adage says, it’s not what you know, but who!

Go in prepared

One thing the market hasn’t changed is the need to be prepared for job interviews. But, with greater online presence, it’s easier to find out about your potential employer. Follow them on LinkedIn, scour their website and create a list of questions tailored to the role. If you haven’t received the job description, ask for one. You want to show your interest in the role, and that you have the right attitude and enthusiasm to take on the role.

We are here to help

CV’s, LinkedIn, interview prep… it can all be a little overwhelming. That’s why most people turn to recruitment agencies to help them narrow down their search.

Recruiters help you throughout the entire employment process, from the application to the post-interview follow-up. And the best part, access to all of this knowledge and information is here at Asset.

We specialise in placing temporary, permanent, executive and industrial job seekers into employment. So, whether it’s been one week, or 12 months, contact our team today to help with navigating the changes in the job market.