It's important to be aware of how employers advertise for jobs. Knowing where and how to look can help you find your next job.
6 ways to start looking for jobs online
1. Use job search engines
Job search engine sites include Reed, Indeed and Find a Job. Look at our job websites page and employers recruiting now to start searching for jobs.
Some companies have specific vacancies for graduates. Find out more on graduate job websites.
Apprenticeships will also be advertised by many companies. Look at employers who offer apprenticeships and search for a vacancy on apprenticeship search.
2. Check employers’ own websites
Many employers will recruit through their own website, like the National Health Service, Welsh Government, Civil Service and local councils.
Put the name of the company you’re interested in working for into a search engine to find their official website.
If you know the sector or job you’re interested in search on Job Information for links to relevant job websites.
3. Follow on social media
Many employers use social media to share vacancies. Depending on the employer they may share vacancies on one or all their channels. Follow or subscribe to a company you might be interested in working for on social channels like, X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn and Facebook.
Look at using social media to find jobs for advice and tips on presenting the right social media presence.
4. Look at recruitment agencies
Many recruitment agencies advertise jobs on their websites. Find out more about recruitment agency work and use agency central to find a recruitment agency near you.
5. Use organisations and associations to get ahead
A good way to find potential employers is to research online for:
- Trade organisations
- Associations
- Federations
- Societies
- Business directories
These will usually list companies based on the industry they’re in and give you ways to contact them.
Specific industries are part of trade organisations, associations, federations and societies. For example, National Federation of Builders, Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) or Social Care Wales. Some will have free access to their membership directories so you can keep up to date with news and developments in the sector.
Online business directories also list companies local to your area, giving access to their contact details to get in touch to ask about vacancies. Start searching on Directory of Welsh Businesses on Business Wales.
6. Know the labour market
Knowing what companies are in your area or planning to move into the area will help you prepare for potential new jobs. Find out by:
- Looking at some of the employers recruiting now
- Reading news in your area on websites like BBC Wales news
- Speaking to friends and family
- Exploring Wales' regions and industries on Future Jobs Wales
- Watch the videos on Future of Work in Wales
- Look at Fast Growth 50 to see fastest growing companies
And remember, we're here to help
Our careers advisers and employability coaches can support you with free advice and guidance, job searching support and access to training. Contact us over the phone, on webchat or email.
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