Jobs: Practical tips to find work and grow your career
Looking for work or thinking about a career switch? This page collects straightforward, useful advice you can act on today. Whether you’re hunting for your first job, moving into tech, or deciding between education paths, you’ll find clear tips that cut the noise and help you move forward.
Search smarter, not harder
Start with a clean, focused resume. Pick one role and tailor your resume to it — highlight the skills and results that matter for that job. Use short bullet points with numbers where you can (sales increased by 20%, supported 50 clients, saved 30% time). Recruiters skim fast; make your impact obvious in the first 6–8 seconds.
Apply selectively. Mass-applying is tiring and usually ineffective. Spend more time on fewer applications: read the job description, customize your cover note, and show you understand the company. Follow up politely a week after applying — it makes you more memorable.
Choose learning that pays off
Not sure whether an associate degree, a full degree, or a short course is right for you? Think about the job you want next. Some tech roles accept hands-on certifications and real projects more than formal degrees. An associate degree can be a great, affordable way to get practical skills fast if you back it up with internships or portfolio work.
If you’re choosing between AI and IT, ask: do you like building systems or solving data problems? IT gives a broad foundation — networking, security, support. AI leans into math, modelling, and coding. Both pay well when you combine coursework with real projects. Try short online courses or small projects before committing to a long program.
Money for education? Look into scholarships, government schemes, or targeted loans. Some programs and banks offer favorable terms for women or for specific fields. Read the fine print and calculate total cost, not just monthly payments.
Interview prep wins jobs. Practice concise stories about your achievements: situation, action, result. Show curiosity with two smart questions about the role or team. Be on time, be honest, and frame weaknesses as what you’re doing to improve.
Finally, keep building. Side projects, volunteer work, or helping a small business are real experience you can show. Networking still works: a short message to an alumnus or a recruiter can open doors. Treat job hunting like a short project — set weekly goals, track applications, and adjust based on what’s working.
Explore the posts tagged "jobs" here for specific guides on resumes, choosing education, and quick career decisions. Use what fits, try small experiments, and keep improving. Your next opportunity is often one smart change away.
What are some jobs you can get without a high school diploma?
This article discusses the various job opportunities available to those without a high school diploma. It explains that there are many available roles in areas such as retail, hospitality, the service industry and even the military. It also highlights the importance of having strong work ethic, dedication and problem solving skills, as well as the need to stay up to date with relevant technology to secure employment in these fields. Additionally, the article suggests taking advantage of apprenticeships, online classes and self-learning tools to increase employability. In conclusion, although a high school diploma is not always needed to secure employment, having the right skills, knowledge and attitude is key to success.