Advice that job seekers may still be ignoring

Lack of jobs or lack of skills?

With many recent letters in Design Week focusing on the lack of jobs in the design industry, and stories of enormous piles of applications, I am writing with news that there is light at the end of the tunnel.

After sending out just eight applications, I was surprised to be rewarded with three interviews – all at great consultancies in good positions. And all this within the space of two weeks.

This left me pleased, but puzzled. What did my application have that the hundreds of other applicants didn’t? The answer is simple. A cover letter that is correctly spelt and grammatically correct; a simple, but stylish CV with details relevant to the prospective employer; and a clear, succinct and honest portfolio.

During the interviews I spoke honestly about my work, my involvement in projects and my abilities and aspirations. Result? I have secured a super new job within three weeks of sending out my first letter.

Yes competition is fierce, but from this experience I am left asking – is there a lack of jobs or a lack of interview skills?

Chris Prior

Designer

cprior1@aol.com