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Employment in Europe
Last updated on Wednesday, 21/10/2020
Trying to get into the job market but unsure where to start looking? There are countless opportunities throughout Europe, check out how to find them right here!
Get ready to send your applications
Looking for work can be a daunting task, but if you prepare before you apply it will seem easy! Before being hired by your employer-to-be make sure you’ve completed these steps to increase your employability.
1. Tailor your CV to the position you want
Once you’ve found the job for you, sell yourself as best you can! For example, if you’re applying for a position in journalism, show your creative side as much as possible in your experience. Generic CVs often miss what companies want for specific roles, so make sure yours is right for the job!
2. Edit your social media
Keeping an up to date LinkedIn account can sometimes help with your applications, and your tweets can show your passion for the area you’re applying to. Equally, if there is something you would rather an employer didn’t see while considering your CV, it probably should be hidden. For more tips on how to make the most of your social media, have a look at this great article from EURES!
3. Research the organisation
While you’re waiting for a reply, research the organisation’s current projects, and have suggestions on how you can improve them. This will show your interest and willingness to work for the company you're applying to!
4. Contact and enquire
Don’t be afraid to get in touch with the company and ask how your application is going, it will show interest and an eagerness to get started!
5. Where to find work
Within your home country, you can always contact your local public employment service to find the right job for you.
If you’re open to working further afield, check out the EURES European Job Mobility Portal and the European Job Days: recruitment events bringing jobseekers and employers together. There you can find not only recruitment opportunities but also practical information and advice. If you’re looking for a traineeship opportunity then pay a visit to the Eurodesk Opportunity Finder. All these resources are updated regularly, and show vacancies all over Europe!
Similar sites which advertise jobs in Europe include:
Found nothing?
If you can’t find anything that interests you, why not consider volunteering? It's a great way to contribute while seeing the world, with a wide variety of projects. Volunteering is also a great chance to develop skills needed for the workplace, such as organisation and time management! Check the European Solidarity Corps programme and our section on ‘Volunteering’ for more information. Maybe you’ll also find the right one for you here.