So, you need a job fast. Without a specific strategy for job searching it could end up as a full time role. But with no pay. Here’s how to cut your job search from months to a couple of weeks max (as long as you take all the steps in this series). Don’t your waste time, here’s where and how to look for jobs in London.

1) Get online

Regardless of what sector your ideal job is actually in, it is most likely to be listed online. So, get on the web and start uploading your CV to as many online job sites as you can. One huge advantage is recruiters can search through the database and view your CV, without you having to send to the employers directly. Theoretically, using this tool, you may not have to do any searching yourself. However, do not rely on this method alone, if you want to find a job in London, fast. An important factor to remember is, with thousands of online CV’s uploaded every day, your CV will eventually sink to the bottom of the pile, as it were. Therefore, in order to stay at the top of recruiters search lists, essentially, you’ll have to make a fresh application every day. That sounds a little daunting, doesn’t it? Especially, if you’ve already signed up to jobsites, you’ll know the online form filling can take hours, initially. That alone could steal precious hours away from your daily job hunt. Well, here’s a crafty trick to make sure your CV stays on top, without wasting time: all you need to do every day, is click edit CV, then click ok. Some sites have a privacy option, in that case, click private then click back to public. Either way, your CV will go back to the top of the pile.

Most jobsites will send you job searches and updates, based on the options you pick when you register. Remember to choose as many options or career types as you can – some site will limit the amount of categories you can select. So, if just want a job, any job, fast, and there is a limit on how many job types or specific industries you can pick, why not create multiple accounts using different emails. Remember, tailor each CV and account specifically. For example, one account is dedicated to bar and service industry work, while another is set aside for admin and PA roles.

2) Network

If you know the specific career or industry you wish to work in, it is definitely useful to check out any trade shows, job fairs, networking functions and social events. Remember, take some business cards. If you don’t have any business cards, there are many free or super-cheap offers online. Once at the function, you’ll need to play the room – confidence is key. Don’t be afraid to ask if there are any positions available. It would also be advisable to take a few copies of your CV, just in case someone asks to see it. The aim is to network, and make friends with, as many managers as you can. These are the power players who hire and fire. If you make an impact, if a position becomes available, you will be the first person they contact. Remember, you are special and you could make a huge impact to any role or company. Why not give your previous employer a call? They may have contacts in London they can recommend you to. It’s worth a go, surely.

Ask everyone, everywhere – where do you work? Are there any positions available? Could I have the email/number of the recruiter? Potentially, every new person you meet, there could also be a job opportunity.

3) Recruitment agencies/consultants

Employment agencies tend to specialise in particular areas. If you have specific career in mind or are looking for a professional role, it is worth researching agencies and consultants who specialise in your field. If you have no Idea, it is worth researching agencies in general. Here’s Directory of London agencies.

Often, employment agencies are the quickest way to find work, especially if you are willing to do anything. The amount of time from contact to contract can be a matter of days – it is the agency that employs you rather than the company.

4) Go out looking

Granted, during your job search, you’ll spend quite a lot of time online and on the phone but, depending on the type of job you are looking for, nothing beats actually getting out there. It makes sense – especially if you looking for retail or bar jobs. Similarly, there’s nothing stopping you from picking up the phone and calling employers directly either.

5) Use LinkedIn

Everything can be done online now, even networking. Yeah, we all know social networking can be a great way to stay in contact with friends and share photos. But did you know you can use them as job hunting tools too? Here are a few tricks to help you use social networking to find a job in London, fast:

Sign up for and create yourself a profile on LinkedIn This, potentially, works in the same way as conventional, face-to-face networking – all of the key recruiters and managers you need to impress, within your industry, will be there. You can also use your existing contacts – any employers, clients or colleagues, to recommend you, which is, basically, a reference. They can also link you to other key individuals. Furthermore, by joining relevant groups and discussions, you will further your chances of finding a job fast. Your linkedin profile is, in all intents and purposes, a CV so treat it as such. Use your Objective Statement and remember the STAR system. In 2010, Linkedin analysed American profiles and found the top ten overused words:

• extensive experience
• innovative
• motivated
• results-oriented
• dynamic
• proven track record
• team-player
• fast-paced
• problem-solver
• entrepreneurial

Avoid overused statements just as you would in your CV.

6) Use Twitter

Twitter is such a great way to find your dream job. Here’s what to do:

1. Make sure your avatar pic is professional – a nice clear image of you wearing a suit would be perfect.
2. Next, paste your Objective Statement in your bio.
3. Then make sure you tweet about your job search making sure to use the hashtag for key words.
4. Finally, add a link to your CV – either by tweeting it or by adding a link to your bio. Many recruiters, managers and key industry players will also have twitter accounts – follow as many as you can. You’ll find out about vacant positions and gain industry specific information that will help you with your job search or interviews. Also, you can use twitter as a job search engine. For example, type ‘London Bar Jobs’ and it will list relevant positions.

7) Get your online presence sorted

With social networking, everyone has a traceable online presence. After receiving your CV, employers may Google an applicant’s name to see what pops up. Why wouldn’t they? It’s so easy, it’s free and a great way to pre-screen potential employees. If you have Facebook, Twitter, Myspace, LinkedIn or any other social networking accounts you need to be very careful how you conduct yourself online. With Facebook, it is advisable to set your profile to private. Otherwise, ensure your profile picture is professional. Of course, in some cases, a quirky social networking profile will help you – especially if the position is creative. Either way, you need to make sure your online present is relevant to the type of work you are looking for.