15 Tips To Try If You're Having Trouble Finding a Job
Struggling to land a job right now? You’re definitely not the only one. The job hunt can feel draining, especially when you’re firing off CVs and getting ghosted. But here’s the thing, there are loads of little tweaks you can make that actually move the needle.
Here, we talk you through the real, practical stuff you can do to get noticed, stay motivated and keep money coming in while you search. Let’s get into it.
1. Get people you know in the industry to check your CV
Your CV might look decent to you, but is it saying what hiring managers want to hear?
Ask someone already in the industry to give it a once-over. They’ll spot what’s missing and tell you what buzzwords actually matter.
It’s free, it’s quick, and it could save you weeks of rejection.
2. Actually speak to recruiters on the phone
Applying through online portals is fine, but recruiters get swamped.
A quick phone call can do way more for you than sending another email. It shows you’re serious, lets them hear your energy, and puts you on their radar.
Trust us, a two-minute chat can make them think of you first when a role pops up.
3. Keep yourself afloat with easy online jobs
Money stress while job hunting is real.
Instead of waiting around, you can pick up side hustles to tide you over. Prograd has a bunch of online tasks you can do for extra cash, surveys, small freelance gigs, quick wins. It won’t replace a salary, but it helps keep your bank balance breathing.
4. Sort out your LinkedIn (yes, it matters)
LinkedIn isn’t just for people in suits. It’s basically your online CV, and recruiters live on there.
The algorithm works a lot like TikTok’s, keywords are everything. If you want marketing jobs, make sure “SEO,” “campaigns,” “social media” are all over your profile.
Oh, and hit that “open to work” toggle. You’d be surprised how many recruiters slide in once you do.
5. Lean on your network (no shame in it)
Sometimes the best opportunities don’t even make it onto job boards. Tell your mates, your family, even people at your gym or sports club that you’re looking.
A lot of jobs come through word of mouth, and someone in your circle probably knows someone hiring. Don’t be shy, people actually like helping.
6. Keep an eye on startups that just raised money
Every month, loads of UK startups announce funding. And what’s the first thing most of them do?
Hire. If you can get in early, you’ll be applying before the job posts even go live. Sites like Sifted or TechCrunch share funding news all the time.
7. Don’t rule out work experience
If you’ve got a gap in your CV, employers notice. One quick way around that? A short stint of work experience or volunteering.
Even a month can show you’re proactive, add fresh skills, and make your CV way more attractive. Plus, you might meet people who can recommend you for paid gigs.
8. Network without cringing
“Networking” sounds like schmoozing in suits, but it’s really just talking to people.
Go to events, chat on LinkedIn, join online groups. Even casual convos at meetups can lead to opportunities.
And if you’re shy? Start small - comment on someone’s post with something thoughtful. That’s networking too.
9. Ask for feedback (when you can)
If you’ve been rejected after interviews, it’s worth asking for feedback. Not everyone will give it, but if they do, it’s basically free coaching.
Even small notes like “we wanted more Excel skills” give you something to work on before the next one.
10. Always follow up
After an interview, send a quick thank-you email. It makes you look professional and keeps you in the interviewer’s head.
Even with recruiters, following up after a week shows you’re keen, without being annoying.
11. Clean up what’s online about you
Employers Google people. That’s just how it is.
Type your own name into Google and see what comes up. If your socials are public, make sure there’s nothing you’d regret them seeing.
A good online presence is basically part of your CV now.
12. Check job boards - all of them
Don’t just stick to Indeed or Reed. Look at niche ones too. Want charity work? Try CharityJob. Creative roles? The Dots.
Local jobs sometimes pop up in community Facebook groups or even noticeboards in coffee shops. The wider your search, the better.
13. Stay consistent
Finding a job is often a numbers game. Set yourself small goals: apply to three roles a day, or 15 a week.
Consistency means you’ll eventually hit the right opportunity. Just don’t burn out, better a few good applications than 50 rushed ones.
14. Personalise every single application
Copy-pasting the same CV for every job is tempting, but it doesn’t work. Employers can spot it instantly.
Take a few minutes to tweak your CV and cover letter, mention the company name, highlight specific skills they asked for, show you’ve done your homework. That effort pays off.
15. Be open to roles you hadn’t considered
Your dream job might not be your first job. If one area feels impossible to break into, look at related roles that give you experience and skills you can use later. Journalism tricky?
Try content writing or social media. Want finance? Start with analyst or assistant roles. Sometimes the side door is the fastest way in.
Nailing the job hunt
Job hunting can feel brutal, but you don’t have to do it all perfectly. Small steps like tweaking your LinkedIn, leaning on your network, or following up after interviews can seriously improve your chances.
And while you’re in the thick of it, don’t let money stress you out. Prograd has quick online earning options to help you keep things ticking over while you apply. Explore online tasks here.
The right opportunity might be closer than you think, and in the meantime, you’ve got options.
