
<p>The UK’s economy faces tough times. So you may want to rethink your job hunting strategy. When recessions hit, there tends to be fewer jobs around. That’s because companies hire less. So there’s more competition for you. If you find yourself struggling to find a job, it’s time to start doing things differently.</p>



<p>Here are 8 things to start doing when the economy takes a nosedive.</p>



<ul><li>Update your CV</li><li>Wow with a portfolio</li><li>Show your face</li><li>Put in a phone call</li><li>Attach a cover letter</li><li>Wear an outfit that pops</li><li>Use recession-friendly words</li><li>Follow up</li></ul>



<h2>8 ways to stand out when job hunting in a recession</h2>



<h3>Update your CV</h3>



<p>Recessions call for a little CV makeover. That’s because companies start thinking differently about who they’re hiring. So be sure to update your CV with <strong><a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/5-recession-proof-skills-to-add-to-your-cv-immediately/?id=1327">recession-proof skills</a></strong>.</p>



<h3>Wow with a portfolio</h3>



<p>Portfolios are a great way to impress hiring managers. It’s a great way to show off your skills. But not every job is suited to a portfolio. Creative jobs like photography, writing and marketing are portfolio-friendly. You can also create a portfolio for other jobs like project management and architecture. Don’t wait for them to ask you to bring a portfolio. Just bring one anyway!</p>



<h3>Show your face</h3>



<p>What’s one way to stand out in a pile of CVs? Show your face! Where possible, turn up at the company to introduce yourself and hand in your CV. This puts a face to your CV. You’ll have an easier time standing out and the hiring manager will be more likely to offer you an interview.</p>



<h3>Put in a phone call</h3>



<p>If you can’t show up in person, try a phone call! It’s another great way to get noticed. If you’ve not heard back after an application, call the hiring manager. See if they’ll pull up your application while you’re on the phone. This will show you’re keen and will be sure to speed things along!</p>



<h3>Attach a cover letter</h3>



<p>Cover letters are an absolute must when applying for jobs in a recession. It’s the perfect way to expand on your CV and <em>really</em> sell yourself. Be sure to check out our <strong><a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/what-to-include-in-a-cover-letter/?id=433">cover letter writing tips</a></strong>!</p>



<h3>Wear an outfit that pops</h3>



<p>When hiring managers interview a lot of candidates, they can start to blur into one. So be sure to <strong><a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/what-to-wear-to-an-interview/?id=1151">pick the right interview outfit</a> </strong>and wear something special to your interview. A colourful tie or brooch can help the interviewer remember you.</p>



<h3>Use recession-friendly words</h3>



<p>Companies think differently during recessions. It’s all about saving costs and staying alive. They’re not so focused on thriving (that’s more of a bonus). So you need to start talking their language. Here are a few words and ideas to talk about in your CV/interview:</p>



<ul><li>Cost-saving</li><li>Budget management</li><li>Resourceful</li><li>Out-of-the-box thinking</li><li>Adaptable</li><li>Resilient</li><li>Contingency plans</li></ul>



<h3>Follow up</h3>



<p>Ever heard the phrase ‘<em>the fortune is in the follow up</em>’? Well, it really is! Sometimes you’ve gotta <strong><a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/how-to-follow-up-after-an-interview/?id=1282">follow up with the hiring manager</a></strong>. If you haven’t heard back after an interview, don’t just sit there and wait. Get on the phone and make it happen!&nbsp;</p>



<h2>Think outside the box</h2>



<p>When times are tough, it’s time to act differently. Job hunting can get a little tougher when the economy is down. So start planning ahead. Get your CV in shape and make sure you go the extra mile for every job application. Sometimes it’s the little things you do that employers love. So never underestimate the power of putting in a phone call or following up.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>How do you stand out when job hunting? Share your tips below!</em></p>


Stand out when applying for jobs during a shaky economy


<p>What&#8217;s that saying?</p>



<p>‘<em>If the mountain won’t go to Muhammad, then Muhammad must come to the mountain’</em>. </p>



<p>Well, this wisdom can be used in your job hunt! Don’t just sit and wait for opportunities to come to you. Create them for yourself!</p>



<p>Today, we’ll teach you what a speculative job application is, and how to make one!</p>



<h2>What’s the definition of a speculative job application?</h2>



<p>A speculative application (or speculative CV) is when you send your <strong><a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/how-to-update-your-cv/?id=482">updated CV</a></strong> to a company even though they’re not advertising for jobs. You sell yourself into the company hoping they will create a position especially for you. Or maybe they were planning on hiring, but you manage to send your CV in before they start the process. Either way, when you send a speculative CV, you don’t know if the company is going to be interested in hiring or not. It’s a chance you take!</p>



<h2>Do speculative applications work?</h2>



<p>Good companies are always interested in people that can add value. So if you’ve got skills to offer, many employers will be glad to hear from you. Some skills are really hard to find. So hiring managers will always be open to hearing from candidates with the right skills. They don’t need to be actively hiring. They can take you on because they know your worth.</p>



<h2>How to write a speculative application email</h2>



<h3>Identify your skills</h3>



<p>Before you get started, know what you have to offer. What’s unique about you? What skills have you learned? What qualifications do you have? These are all questions that will shape what kinds of jobs you should go for.&nbsp;</p>



<h3>Create a list of roles and companies</h3>



<p>Once you’ve identified your skills, it’s time to make a list. Don’t just aimlessly target companies. Know exactly the types of roles that could use your skills. And identify which companies you’d like to work for.</p>



<h3>Send your CV and cover email</h3>



<p>Make sure you update your CV before sending. You should also <a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/what-to-include-in-a-cover-letter/?id=433"><strong>write a</strong> <strong>tailored cover letter</strong></a><strong> </strong>that will make up the body of your email. Try to find a contact within the company to send your email to. You may be able to find this on the company website. If not, you’ll have to send the email to the general recruitment team.</p>



<h2>Speculative email example</h2>



<p><strong><em>Subject:</em></strong><em> CV for eco-minded digital marketing professional&nbsp;</em></p>



<p><em>Dear Mr. Parsons,</em></p>



<p><em>My name is Carl Adamson and I am a qualified digital marketing professional with over 3 years’ experience. After researching your company, I am sending my CV in the hope that you will consider me for any opportunities to work in digital marketing for Eco-future.</em></p>



<p><em>Over the last 3 years, I have worked as a digital marketing assistant for another eco-minded business, The Green Way. During my tenure, I have generated over £.25mil revenue solely through my email marketing and paid advertising campaigns.</em></p>



<p><em>I believe my innovation and passion for marketing are a key driver behind my campaigns’ success, and I am now looking to achieve new levels of growth for a different company.</em></p>



<p><em>Although you are not actively hiring, I feel I am very aligned with Eco-future’s mission to reduce deforestation and therefore took the initiative to send you my CV.</em></p>



<p><em>I hope you consider my attached CV for any suitable job opportunities. I would be very grateful to discuss my skill set with you in-person.</em></p>



<p><em>Yours sincerely,</em></p>



<p><em>Carl Adamson</em></p>



<h2>Make the first move</h2>



<p>Sending speculative CVs is a great way to <strong><a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/where-can-i-apply-for-lots-of-jobs-quickly-sonicjobs/?id=571">speed up the job hunt process</a></strong>. It’s a way for you to create the opportunities you want, rather than settling for whatever’s out there. Just be sure to keep it as personal as possible by tailoring your CV and cover letter.</p>



<p><em>Ready to change your career? Apply from your phone with the </em><a href="http://www.sonicjobs.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong><em>SonicJobs</em></strong></a><em> app!</em></p>


What is a speculative job application? (With email example)


<p>Applying for jobs can be tough. There’s a lot of competition out there. So it’s no surprise around 40% of the population has admitted to lying on their CV. Some people change their job title to something more eye-catching. Others alter their employment dates to make themselves look more stable. And many people tell porkies about their qualifications.</p>



<p>But what if you get found out? How much trouble can you get in for lying on your CV? What if it’s just a little white lie?</p>



<p>Today, we’ll explain what can happen when you lie on your CV.</p>



<h2>Is it illegal to lie on your CV?</h2>



<p>Lying on your CV is actually illegal. It can be classed as a criminal offence under the 2006 Fraud Act. If found out for lying, you could get rejected from a job. If you get found out while on the job, you could get sacked or face a fine. In the most extreme cases, you could even face upto 10 years imprisonment!</p>



<p>This is because employers are offering you a salary based on the information you’ve provided. You can <strong><a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/how-to-write-a-cv-uk/?id=438">write the most amazing CV in the world</a></strong>. But if that information is false, you’ve committed fraud. </p>



<h2>Can you get sacked for lying on your CV?</h2>



<p>The short answer to this is YES. Depending on the circumstances, employers may have the right to dismiss you if they find out you’ve lied on your CV. The same thing goes for your <strong><a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/what-to-include-in-a-cover-letter/?id=433">cover letter</a></strong>. If you lie on your cover letter, you face the same consequences.</p>



<p>Some jobs, like doctors and engineers, require certain qualifications. If you’ve not got the right qualifications, you could be endangering others and putting the company at risk. So even if you’ve passed your <strong><a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/how-to-pass-your-probation-period-at-work/?id=1275">probation period</a></strong>, they can still dismiss you if you’re caught lying.</p>



<h2>How employers know you’re lying</h2>



<p>Employers aren’t silly. They know many people try to lie on their CV. So they take measures to verify the information you’ve given them to make sure you’re not lying.</p>



<h3>Reference checks</h3>



<p>Carrying out references is one of the most common ways employers check out your background. They can write to a past employer to confirm your job title, duties and employment dates. They may even confirm your previous salary and your reason for leaving.</p>



<h3>Interview grilling</h3>



<p>Employers will use interviews as an opportunity to dig into your background. They can usually tell if someone is lying because they’ll start tripping up on the details. Maybe their dates don’t add up. Or perhaps they just fail to answer questions they should know.</p>



<h3>Skills tests</h3>



<p>Skills tests are another way employers put you to the test. Anyone can write themselves up a storm about how skilled they are. But they use skills tests, exams and trial shifts to test out your knowledge.</p>



<h3>Requesting certificates</h3>



<p>Don’t even think about lying about your qualifications. It’s very easy for employers to verify this information. They’ll simply ask to see copies of your certifications. They may also write to the institutes to confirm your qualification in case the document has been forged.</p>



<h3>CV errors</h3>



<p>CV errors are a big giveaway if you’re lying. Most commonly, people slip up here when the employment dates on their CV don’t add up.</p>



<h3>Cross-referencing with LinkedIn and social media</h3>



<p>Nowadays, companies will check your LinkedIn and social media profiles to verify you are who you say you are. So always be sure your profiles contain up-to-date (and correct) information.</p>



<h3>Monitoring your performance on the job</h3>



<p>Finally, the last giveaway is your performance on the job. Even if you talked a good talk, you can only fake it for so long. Eventually, the holes in your experience are going to show. At this point, it may be obvious that you lied in your CV.</p>



<h2>The truth always comes out</h2>



<p>Don’t risk lying on your CV. Not even a little white lie. It’s okay if you don’t have all the necessary experience. Often, employers will still hire you because they see your potential. It’s simply not worth the risk.&nbsp;</p>



<p><em>Looking for a new job? Use the </em><a href="http://www.sonicjobs.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong><em>SonicJobs</em></strong></a><em> app to find a job in record time!</em></p>


Is it okay to lie on your CV?


<p>Hiring managers are busy people. And they only spend an average of 6 seconds looking at a CV before deciding whether to reject or read on. One of the first things they’ll read is your personal statement. So you need to make sure this grabs their attention as well as <strong><a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/how-to-write-a-cv-uk/?id=438">nailing the rest of your CV</a></strong>.</p>



<h2>What is a personal statement on a CV?</h2>



<p>A personal statement (or summary) are the opening lines of your CV. It tells the employer about you, your aims, and what you have to offer. Your personal statement should summarise the most important points from your CV.</p>



<h2>Tips for writing a personal statement that stands out</h2>



<h3>Place it at the top of your CV</h3>



<p>First things first, your personal statement sits towards the top of your CV along with your personal details. The next part of your CV will be your work experience, followed by your qualifications and hobbies. And don’t forget to title each section so it says ‘<em>Personal statement</em>’, ‘<em>Work experience</em>’ etc.</p>



<h3>Keep it short</h3>



<p>The best personal statements are concise and to the point. There’s no waffling or long-winded sentences. It should be a paragraph containing 3-5 sentences only. Remember, hiring managers are short on time. So make their job easier by writing a short but powerful personal statement.</p>



<h3>Don’t be generic</h3>



<p>Avoid writing cliches in your personal statement. The point is to stand out from the crowd. So really think of all the things that make you unique and an asset. Ask yourself if your personal statement could be talking about anyone… or if it can only be about you.</p>



<h3>Summarise your experience</h3>



<p>Use 1-2 sentences in your statement to summarise your experience. But keep it relevant. If you’re applying for a job in hospitality, only mention the stuff that’s closely linked with hospitality. This will make sure your CV stands out and the hiring manager will want to know more about you.</p>



<h3>Talk about your career aims</h3>



<p>Make sure you include where you want your career to go, and why. It’s good to show employers that you’re serious about this career path. Show them you’re ambitious and determined.</p>



<h3>Use buzzwords from the job description</h3>



<p>The job description tells you <em>exactly</em> who the hiring manager is looking for. If they’re looking for ‘organised’ people, make sure you include the word organised. But don’t overdo this. Only pick out a couple of the most important qualities they’re looking for.</p>



<h3>Keep it formal</h3>



<p>Remember to keep the language professional and formal. Don’t use abbreviations like ‘<em>I’m</em>’ or ‘<em>I’ve’</em>. Instead, write ‘<em>I am</em>’ or ‘<em>I have</em>’.</p>



<h3>Don’t echo your cover letter</h3>



<p>If you’re including a <strong><a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/what-to-include-in-a-cover-letter/?id=433">cover letter</a></strong> with your application, don’t just copy and paste the text from there. Make sure your personal statement is totally original.</p>



<h2>Personal statement examples</h2>



<h3>Example 1: waiter/waitress role</h3>



<p>“<em>I am an outgoing person who thrives working in fast-paced environments. I enjoy providing a first-class experience for customers and have 2 years’ experience working in a busy restaurant as a waitress. I am looking to work full-time for a fine-dining restaurant that can provide ongoing career progression. I am available from March 1st.</em>”</p>



<h3>Example 2: sales role</h3>



<p>“<em>I am a highly motivated individual who is best suited to working in competitive environments. I have excelled in my current role selling mobile phone contracts, having achieved all of my sales targets. I am now seeking a more challenging sales role, selling higher-ticket items. I am available to start at one month’s notice.</em>”</p>



<h3>Example 3: carer role</h3>



<p>“<em>I am a compassionate and dependable person, seeking work as a carer. I have experience caring for sick, elderly relatives, administering their medication and tending to personal care. I understand what it takes to support vulnerable people. I am seeking a full-time position with an immediate start.</em>”</p>



<h2>Ready for a new start?</h2>



<p>If you’re looking for a new job, <a href="http://www.sonicjobs.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>SonicJobs</strong></a> can help. With our free mobile app, you can apply for jobs on the go.</p>


How to write a CV personal statement (with examples)


<p>If you’re in the middle of <a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/how-do-i-apply-for-a-job-sonicjobs/?id=756"><strong>applying for jobs</strong></a>, you might have noticed some jobs don’t tell you the salary. Instead, they just say ‘competitive salary’. This may leave you feeling a little frustrated. After all, you don’t want to apply for a job that <a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/how-do-you-know-if-you-are-being-paid-enough-at-work-sonicjobs/?id=877"><strong>doesn’t pay you enough</strong></a>. </p>



<p>So in today’s blog, we’re giving you the inside scoop on competitive salaries.</p>



<h2>What does competitive salary mean?</h2>



<p>A competitive salary means the company pays the average salary (or above) for the role.&nbsp;</p>



<h2>Why do companies write this?</h2>



<p>There are a couple of different reasons why companies choose to write ‘competitive salary’ rather than specifying an amount.</p>



<p>The first reason is that <strong>the salary is likely to be negotiable</strong>. Some companies don’t want to put people off by listing a low salary because they’ll pay more for the right person. At the same time, they don’t want to list a salary that’s really high. Believe it or not, but this can put some people off from applying.</p>



<p>The second reason is that the company may want to keep the salary confidential. Many companies don’t like when employees discuss their salaries. They prefer to keep this information confidential. But you should know that you can always <strong><a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/can-you-ask-your-colleagues-how-much-money-they-make-sonicjobs/?id=647">ask your colleagues about their salaries</a></strong>.</p>



<h2>How do you know if you’re being offered enough?</h2>



<p>At some stage in the process, you’ll want to ask the employer for more information about the salary. At this point, they should be able to tell you a salary bracket.</p>



<p>It’s important to gauge the going rate for your role in your area. To do this, you can check other job adverts online or use <a href="https://www.totaljobs.com/salary-checker/salary-calculator" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>salary checkers</strong></a>. </p>



<h3>Examples of competitive salaries</h3>



<ul><li>The average salary in London for a software engineer is £72,500. So a competitive salary for this role could be between £72,500 and £76,000.</li></ul>



<ul><li>The average salary in Manchester for a Carer is £20,545. So a competitive salary could be between £20,545 and £23,000.</li></ul>



<ul><li>The average salary in Birmingham for a Head Chef is £27,000. So a competitive salary could be between £27,000 and £30,000.</li></ul>



<p><strong>Important note</strong></p>



<p>Average salary checkers aren’t black and white. You should remember that salary isn’t just about the job title and location. Your experience and level of qualification will also affect the salary you’re entitled to. For example, a software engineer with just 1 year of experience wouldn’t expect to earn £72,500. The average salary for a software engineer with 1 year of experience will be much less than £72,500.</p>



<h2>What to do if the salary is too low</h2>



<h3>When you find out BEFORE the interview process</h3>



<p>If you find out before the interview process that the salary is too low, here’s what you do:</p>



<ul><li>Address it as soon as possible.&nbsp;</li><li>Tell the hiring manager that you’re very interested in the role, but the salary isn’t close to your desired bracket.&nbsp;</li><li>Ask them if there is any room in their budget to increase the salary for the right candidate.</li><li>Let them know that you know their time is precious and that you don’t want to waste it if your desired salary is out of the question.</li></ul>



<h3>When you find out AFTER the interview</h3>



<p>If you find out the salary is too low after you’ve been interviewed, you’ll need to <strong><a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/how-to-ask-about-salary-expectations/?id=460">negotiate your salary</a></strong>:</p>



<ul><li>Tell the hiring manager you really like the sound of the role and are very interested in working for them.</li><li>Let them know that the salary is slightly under what you were hoping for.</li><li>Tell them the salary bracket you’d be happy with.</li><li>Reiterate the reasons why you think you’re deserving of the salary and position.</li></ul>



<h2>Know your worth</h2>



<p>Seeing ‘competitive pay’ on a job ad isn’t a bad thing. It often means the employer is open to negotiation and will pay for the right candidate. But it’s important to get clear on the salary bracket as soon as possible. You don’t want to waste your time or the employer’s time if your salary brackets are total opposites. So always gain clarity on the salary bracket at your first opportunity!<br></p>



<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Want to climb the ladder fast? What quicker way to land your next job than with <a href="http://www.sonicjobs.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>SonicJobs</strong></a>? Apply for jobs from your phone today!</em></p>


What does competitive salary mean?


<p>Companies usually ask for references as part of the <a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/how-do-i-apply-for-a-job-sonicjobs/?id=756"><strong>job application process</strong></a>. Although they interview you, they also like to get professional recommendations. It helps them form a more rounded opinion of you. The most common people for references are old bosses.</p>



<p>But what do you do if you don’t have an old boss or you can’t get in touch with them? Is it possible to get a job without references?</p>



<p>Here’s what you’ll find in today’s blog:</p>



<ul><li>Why do employers ask for references?</li><li>How to get a job without references</li><li>Can an employer give a bad reference?</li><li>What to do if you’re given an unfair reference</li></ul>



<h2>Why do employers ask for references?</h2>



<h3>To validate your CV details</h3>



<p>Employers need to check that your CV is accurate. Some people have been known to make up a few details in their CV. So employers need to know they’re getting the whole truth from your CV. This can be validating your dates of employment, job titles and <strong><a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/what-are-skills-on-a-cv-sonicjobs/?id=534">CV skills</a></strong>.</p>



<h3>To check your work ethic</h3>



<p>One of the things employers want to know is if you have a strong work ethic. Old employers can vouch for your work ethic and punctuality.&nbsp;</p>



<h3>To verify your skills</h3>



<p>References can talk about the skills you have. That includes both <strong><a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/what-are-hard-and-soft-skills/?id=1148">soft skills and hard skills</a></strong>. This could be about leadership, teamwork, communication or technical ability.</p>



<h2>How to get a job without references</h2>



<h3>If you’ve never had a job…</h3>



<p>If you can’t get a professional reference from an old boss, it’s time to think creatively. You can always use an old colleague, mentor, sports coach or teacher as a reference. These people can still vouch for your work ethic and character.</p>



<h3>If your old boss has left the company…</h3>



<p>If you worked at a company where your old boss has left, the HR department should still be able to provide a reference. Their reference won’t be so much about your character. It will be more factual since they probably didn’t know you personally. HR can provide a reference to confirm the following:</p>



<ul><li>Dates of employment</li><li>Job title</li><li>Salary</li><li>Whether you had any disciplinaries</li><li>Whether you were dismissed</li></ul>



<h3>If you still can’t find a reference…</h3>



<p>Once you’ve tried everything you can to find a reference, it’s important to let the hiring manager know if you’re struggling. Explain why you can’t find a reference. Let them know how much you want the job and propose a solution:</p>



<ul><li>An extended probation period</li><li>Carry out a trial shift</li><li>An different solution of their choice</li></ul>



<h2>Can an employer give a bad reference?</h2>



<p>Most people believe employers can’t give a bad reference. But this isn’t true. Employers can give you a negative reference. But employers must be fair and accurate when giving a negative reference. Employers have to be able to back up any negative references with proof, like warning letters or disciplinaries.</p>



<h2>What to do if you’re given an unfair reference</h2>



<p>If you feel your reference was unfair or inaccurate, you can claim damages in court. This is most common where a job offer has been retracted as a result of a negative reference. Visit the <a href="https://www.gov.uk/work-reference" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>government website</strong></a> for more information.</p>



<h2>All is not lost</h2>



<p>Don’t panic if you don’t have a reference. The hiring manager may still be open to hiring you if they have a good feeling about your work ethic. The most important thing is to reassure them that you really want the position. In many cases, hiring managers will make an exception and overlook the fact you don’t have a reference.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center"><em>Ready to land a new job in record time? Use the </em><a href="http://www.sonicjobs.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong><em>SonicJobs</em></strong></a><em> app to apply for jobs on the go!</em></p>


What to do when you don’t have any references for a job


<p>When it comes to job hunting, you don’t just need to think about <strong><a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/how-to-write-a-cv-uk/?id=438">writing your CV</a></strong> and perfecting your <strong><a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/interview-questions-with-answers/?id=486">interview answers</a></strong>. Hiring managers use many ways to test you out. At a certain point in the hiring process, they’ll probably ask you for a reference.</p>



<p>But picking the right references is key. You want to pick someone who’s going to give you the strongest and most relevant reference to the job.</p>



<h2>What is a job reference?</h2>



<p>A job reference takes place before you begin a new role. Companies may ask for a letter from your previous employer. This is to confirm that you performed the role that’s in your CV. You can think of it like a letter of recommendation. Sometimes, your job offer can only be confirmed once a reference has been received.</p>



<h2>6 people to use for a job reference</h2>



<p>It’s not always possible to provide a reference from a previous job, especially if you didn’t end on good terms. Or perhaps you’ve never had a job before. But the good news is you get to pick who you provide as a reference. It doesn&#8217;t have to be from an old boss.</p>



<h3>Previous manager</h3>



<p>The best person to use as a reference would be your previous manager. And this is also the most obvious choice. If you had a good relationship with your old manager, put their name down as a reference. This will fill your prospective employer with confidence.</p>



<h3>Teacher</h3>



<p>School teachers make great references for jobs. This is because they get to know your character very well at school. Ideally, you’ll choose a teacher who you spent a lot of time with.&nbsp;</p>



<h3>Lecturer/Professor</h3>



<p>If you went to university, you can use your lecturers as a referee. They can vouch for your character and your work ethic.</p>



<h3>Volunteer work</h3>



<p>If you’ve ever performed any volunteer work, a senior member of staff is a great person to use as a reference. They can describe your character. But they can also describe how you work in a professional setting. They can detail the duties you took on board and whether they’d recommend you as an employee.</p>



<h3>Mentor</h3>



<p>If you’ve ever had a mentor, these can be great people to use as references. Some people had mentors in school/university. And others may have had mentors during their professional career.</p>



<h3>Sports coach</h3>



<p>This may seem like an odd choice, but sports coaches can vouch for your character. They can tell employers if you’re dependable and how you work as part of a team. They can also comment on your punctuality and motivation levels.</p>



<h2>What makes a great reference?</h2>



<p>When picking someone to use as a reference, there are a few things you want to think about. Use these tips to pick the best possible reference:</p>



<ul><li>Pick someone who can vouch for skills that relate most closely to the job you’re applying for.</li><li>If using a previous manager, try to pick your most recent company. The more recent the experience, the better!</li><li>Choose someone that you had a good relationship with and who you can trust to support your career move.</li><li>Avoid picking a manager where you ended on bad terms.</li><li>Where possible, tell your referee what skills you’d like them to mention in their reference</li></ul>



<h2>How many references should you provide?</h2>



<p>Usually the company will specify how many references you need to provide. But it’s common for companies to ask for two. So always have two referees in mind when applying for jobs.</p>



<h2>Pick wisely</h2>



<p>Many employers depend on references when looking for new employees. So always have a couple of people in mind who will provide an outstanding reference for you.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-center"><br><em>Ready to land a new role? Start applying for jobs from your phone on the </em><a href="http://www.sonicjobs.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong><em>SonicJobs</em></strong></a><em> app.</em></p>


Who to use as a job reference


<p>There can be a lot of waiting involved in the job application process. It can be hard to know when to expect a response after applying, and how long to wait before following up.&nbsp;</p>



<ul><li>How long does it take to hear back after submitting a job application?</li><li>When should you follow up on a job application?</li><li>How to follow up on an application</li><li>Job application follow up examples</li><li>What to do when waiting for a response</li></ul>



<h2>How long does it take to hear back after submitting a job application?</h2>



<p>On average, it takes <strong>one to two weeks</strong> to hear back from a job application. In some cases, it may take longer than this. Sometimes the employer won’t respond to any job applications until after the closing date. Occasionally, companies will respond to your application in under a week, but this is less common.</p>



<h2>When should you follow up on a job application?</h2>



<p>It’s usually safe to follow up on a job application a week after you applied. However, you should always first check the job advert to see if they give you a timeframe for hearing back. If so, make sure you only follow up if they’ve not responded within the timeframe.</p>



<h2>Job application follow up examples&nbsp;</h2>



<h3>By telephone</h3>



<p>Putting in a call to the company is the best way to follow up on your application. However, this method will only work if you know the phone number and name of the hiring manager.</p>



<p><strong>Example.</strong></p>



<p><em>“Hi Mr/Mrs [Jones], my name is [Anna Greenfield]. I’m just calling to follow up on a recent application I submitted for the role of [software developer] in your [Birmingham] office. I’m still very interested in the position and just wondered when I should expect a response back about my application?”</em></p>



<h3>By email</h3>



<p>Email is the most common way of following up on a job application. Simply write an email to the hiring manager (try to send it directly to them rather than an admin email address) saying that you’re following up on a recent application. Reiterate your interest in the role and that you hope for a positive response.</p>



<p><strong>Example</strong></p>



<p><em>Dear Mr/Mrs Jones,</em></p>



<p><em>My name is Wendy Greenfield. I applied for the permanent position of [Software developer] in your [Birmingham] office on the 3rd November but I am yet to receive a response. I have a keen interest in working for [company name] and wondered if there has been any progress made in reviewing my application? For your ease, I have attached a copy of my CV and cover letter.</em></p>



<p><em>I hope to hear back from you soon with a positive response.</em></p>



<p><em>Yours sincerely,</em></p>



<p><em>Wendy Greenfield</em></p>



<p><em>[mobile number]</em></p>



<h2>What to do when waiting for a response&nbsp;</h2>



<ul><li>Check your emails / junk folder</li><li>Apply for more jobs</li><li>Practise interview skills</li><li>Be kind to yourself</li></ul>



<h3>1. Check your emails / junk folder</h3>



<p>Make sure you’re regularly checking your emails for updates on your job application. Companies will often send an automated response just after you apply that may detail when you should expect a response. Equally, don’t forget to check your junk folder too!</p>



<h3>2. Apply for more jobs</h3>



<p>Always keep the ball rolling by continuing to apply for more jobs. You never want to put all your eggs in one basket.&nbsp;</p>



<h3>3. Practise interview skills</h3>



<p>Sooner or later you’ll be invited in for an interview. Don’t wait until you receive an invitation before you start the interview prep. Start practicing your answers to the <a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/most-common-interview-questions-and-answers/?id=400"><strong>most common interview questions</strong></a>. This will give you more confidence when it comes to interviewing.</p>



<h3>4. Be kind to yourself</h3>



<p>It’s easy for you to put a lot of pressure on yourself when job hunting. But just remember it’s a lengthy process and most people face some form of rejection during the interview process at one point or another. Just keep moving forward and know that the right opportunity will happen when it’s supposed to!</p>



<h2>Job applications made easy</h2>



<p>Job applications can be a slog, but not with the SonicJobs app. With our app, you’ll only ever need to tap once to apply for a job &#8211; no long application forms! Browse our app today to get your job hunt started!</p>


How long should it take to hear back after applying for a job?


<p>Your job application is your opportunity to make a great first impression. It’s not a process you should rush through. Employers have to sift through large numbers of applications so you need to put a lot of thought and care into it to ensure yours gets noticed.</p>



<p>In today’s post, we’re walking you through all the steps to submit a winning job application.</p>



<ul><li>The four main ways to apply for jobs</li><li>How to apply for a job the right way</li></ul>



<h2>The four main ways to apply for jobs</h2>



<h3>1. Job boards</h3>



<p>Job boards are the most common way for people to find a job in the UK. Job boards include sites like CV Library and Totaljobs.</p>



<h3>2. SonicJobs app</h3>



<p>The SonicJobs app has some of the most popular UK job boards, like CV Library and Totaljobs, all rolled into one platform. It’s a way for jobseekers to apply for jobs from their mobile phone without a lengthy application process. You can apply to every job with 1 tap and will never get redirected to another site!</p>



<h3>3. Direct</h3>



<p>You can apply for jobs by going directly to company websites and filling out an online application form. If there’s a particular company you want to work for, you can check out the vacancies section on their site to see what opportunities are available.</p>



<h3>4. Recruiters</h3>



<p>Using recruiters is another way to find a job, whether you want to apply for part-time jobs or full-time. Often, you’ll submit your CV to the recruiter who will then send your CV off to a handful of companies who are hiring.</p>



<h2>How to apply for a job the right way</h2>



<h3>1. Pick the right jobs</h3>



<p>Never apply to jobs just for the sake of it. This is a waste of your time and energy. Make sure you only apply to jobs that genuinely interest you and will benefit your career aims.</p>



<h3>2. Get your CV straight</h3>



<p>CV writing is one of those jobs people tend to put off. But <a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/how-to-write-a-cv-uk/?id=438"><strong>perfecting your CV</strong></a> is arguably the most important part of your application. So if anything deserves your time, it’s your CV.&nbsp;</p>



<h3>3. Tailor each application</h3>



<p>Never submit a ‘copy and paste’ application. Always make sure each application has been tailored to the job and company at hand, focusing on the skills each company is looking for. Employers will know if you’ve not put any thought into your application so don’t miss this step.</p>



<h3>4. Give tangible examples</h3>



<p>Providing examples in your job application is one of the most impactful application techniques. Instead of reading vague and wishy-washy applications, employers want to hear the specifics about how you excelled in your previous role and what you achieved.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<h3>5. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket</h3>



<p>The last thing you want to do is just apply to one job. You need to keep your options open by applying for several jobs regularly. Finding a new job is a process, so don’t expect to succeed after the first try. Most people have to face a bit of rejection along the way. So it’s important you keep applying for jobs to keep the ball rolling!</p>



<h3>6. Consider a cover letter</h3>



<p><a href="https://blog.sonicjobs.net/what-to-include-in-a-cover-letter/?id=433"><strong>Writing a cover letter</strong></a> can be a great way to stand out from the crowd. They allow you to expand on your CV and give the employer additional information about why you’re right for the role. But cover letters aren’t always appropriate or wanted. Sometimes employers will specifically state that they don’t accept cover letters, or they simply don’t offer space for a cover letter in the application process.</p>



<h3>7. Follow up</h3>



<p>You should follow up on every application you make if you haven’t heard back from the employer within a week. Simply give the company a call to find out if they’ve received your application and let them know you’re still very much interested in the position.</p>



<h2>Take the limelight</h2>



<p>When it comes to applying for jobs, don’t be shy &#8211; sell yourself! If there’s ever a time to talk about your achievements, it’s now. Employers need to feel confident in your ability to succeed in the role, and the best way for you to reassure them is to show confidence in yourself!</p>


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Stand out when applying for jobs during a shaky economy

Stand out when applying for jobs during a shaky economy

What is a speculative job application? (With email example)

Is it okay to lie on your CV?

How to write a CV personal statement (with examples)

What does competitive salary mean?

What to do when you don’t have any references for a job

Who to use as a job reference

How long should it take to hear back after applying for a job?

How do I apply for a job?

SonicJobs

Your next career move. Sorted.

Where are you looking for a job?

Our community love us

Browse by category

Search

Stand out when applying for jobs during a shaky economy

Stand out when applying for jobs during a shaky economy

What is a speculative job application? (With email example)

Is it okay to lie on your CV?

How to write a CV personal statement (with examples)

What does competitive salary mean?

What to do when you don’t have any references for a job

Who to use as a job reference

How long should it take to hear back after applying for a job?

How do I apply for a job?

SonicJobs

Your next career move. Sorted.

Our
community
love us