Digital job seekers are in an exciting industry where roles and rules are constantly changing. Here's some professional advice on how to stand out and boost your career prospects.
The demand for digital talent is strong and opportunities are abundant for those with the right skills. Right now, employers are looking for developers, digital and content strategists. Web designers with HTML/CSS and responsive design skills are also highly sought. In addition, companies seek individuals who have experience developing digital strategies that factor in the likes of SEO, social media, and online experience. You can read more about in demand tech skills and get an overview of the current tech industry in our Demand for Tech Talent report.
So, how can talented digital professionals land one of these lucrative jobs? Scouring job boards and networking are two common strategies. But you can enhance your employment search by partnering with a recruitment agency.
Here is some advice for digital job seekers looking to boost their career prospects with recruitment agencies:
Choose wisely
Not all recruitment agencies are created equal. Be sure to choose a recruiter that can specialise in finding and filling digital roles, preferably one with experience in the specialty he or she is recruiting for. When your recruiter has a firm understanding of your skills and the clients' job requirements, he or she can make a better match and help boost your career prospects.
Recruiter tip
Digital professionals working with a recruiter can get an informed look at a company's culture and job expectations so they can better prepare for interviews. Because recruiters often also know the hiring habits of their clients – some companies may want to bring someone in as a consultant before hiring them full-time, for example – candidates can gain a clearer understanding of the opportunities available to them.
Decide to be different
The CV of a digital candidate is of utmost importance. It's vital to have an updated CV that showcases your experiences. It also pays to keep examples of project you have worked on in the past, a ‘digital portfolio’ if you like has become common, but you have to set yourself apart. That said, being able to show your previous work and creativity doesn't give you a pass on the basics. Your CV must be well written, highlight your skills and, most important, be targeted to the position if you want to boost your career prospects.
Recruiter tip
Digital professionals should get used to constantly updating their CV. With technology changing constantly, it’s important highlight how you have worked on relevant projects, encompassing experience and skills the employer is looking for.
Know your narrative
Although you can't be fully prepared for all of the conceivable interview questions that may arise during a job interview, you should be able to navigate the conversation and tell your professional story effectively. Top candidates have the technical skills employers are looking for in addition to the soft skills that give them the ability to properly communicate their value.
Recruiter tip
Clients rave about interviewees that are able to bring their CV to life through effective storytelling. You should rehearse with your recruitment consultant or a friend who can help you learn to take employers on the journey of your previous work experiences. Answer these questions: What was a recent project that required innovative thinking to come up with a solution? How did you brainstorm and what ideas did you come up with? How did you come down to a final choice? What were the results? Once you can tell your story well, you'll be ready to take on any interview!
