This or That: Connect2Surrey Job Search Edition

Job searching can look very different depending on who you ask. Some prefer the structure of a detailed application, while others lean into networking and word-of-mouth opportunities. In this blog, we're playing a round of This or That: Job Search Edition, a light-hearted way to explore different job-hunting habits and preferences. Whether you’re actively applying or just keeping an eye out for what’s next, this is a great chance to reflect on your approach and maybe pick up a few new ideas along the way.

🟦  Apply for 50 jobs with a generic CV

Or

🟦  Apply to 10 with a tailored one

✅  Apply to 10 with a tailored one

Quality beats quantity because many employers use software to scan CVs for keywords. A generic CV can easily get overlooked before a recruiter even sees it. By tailoring your CV to each job, you include the right skills and phrases to get past these filters and grab the hiring manager’s attention. This way, you stand a much better chance of landing an interview. Look at our blog HERE for tips on what to add to your CV.

🟦  Take a temporary job right now

Or

🟦  Wait for the “perfect” permanent role

✅  Take a temporary job right now

Taking a temporary role now is the smarter choice. First, temp work provides a steady income, helping you stay financially secure while continuing your job search. Beyond that, it’s a great way to build and sharpen your skills in a real work environment, which is attractive to future employers.

They can also offer valuable connections with your industry and open doors for permanent jobs down the line. Choosing temp work shows that you’re proactive and flexible, qualities that hiring managers respect when considering long-term roles. Go to our BLOG on why temp jobs are great for your career!

🟦  Include a cover letter

Or

🟦  Skip it

✅  Skip it!

In many cases, skipping the cover letter can be better than including one, especially if it doesn’t add anything new. Unless you’re sharing a strong personal story or highlighting something that isn’t in your CV, a generic cover letter often goes unread.

Most hiring managers focus on your CV first, and a clear, tailored CV usually speaks for itself. If you do write a cover letter, make sure it adds real value, not just repeats what’s already on your CV!

🟦  List every job you’ve had

Or

🟦  Focus on what’s relevant

✅  Focus on what’s relevant

Focusing on what’s relevant, rather than listing every job you’ve ever had, makes your CV sharper and more professional. Hiring managers don’t need your full work history; they want to quickly see the experience that matches the role.

Highlighting relevant roles and skills helps your CV stand out and keeps it focused, making it easier for recruiters to spot why you’re a great fit. Relevance always beats length when it comes to getting noticed.

🟦  Keep your job hunt private

Or

🟦  Tell people that you're looking

✅  Tell people that you're looking

Letting people know you're job hunting is often much more effective than keeping it to yourself. A quiet search can mean missed opportunities; friends, former colleagues, or even casual connections might know of roles you'd never see advertised. The more people who know you're looking, the more chances you have to hear about openings or get referrals. A little visibility can go a long way in landing your next role.

🟦 Try a role in adult social care or children’s services to gain public sector experience.

Or

🟦 Stick to the private sector because it feels more familiar.

✅ Try a role in adult social care or children’s services to gain public sector experience.

Trying a role in adult social care or children’s services in Surrey is a great way to gain valuable public sector experience. Through Connect2Surrey, you can explore opportunities that might feel different from the private sector but offer rewarding work and the chance to make a real impact in your local community. Stepping into these roles helps you build new skills while supporting Surrey’s residents, opening doors to a fulfilling career in public services.

✨Reflective Wrap Up

Job searching is full of choices, big and small.

Whether it’s tailoring your CV, deciding to take a temp role, or choosing who to tell about your search, each decision shapes your journey. The key is to make those choices work for you. Trust your instincts, back yourself, and keep moving forward, even if everything isn’t perfect. You don’t need to have it all figured out right away; what matters most is being intentional and staying open to opportunities as they come.