After investing time and effort in creating an effective CV and covering letter, some of the biggest obstacles in a job-search include finding and applying for jobs, attracting employers, securing interviews and then, hopefully, being offered the jobs writes Ioana Lazarov.

This can be a very laborious process – I’ve been personally investing around three hours every day doing online research on the companies and organisations with new vacancies to apply for.

The several months that I have invested in job-hunting have helped me identify current trends in employment and certain aspects employers will take into account before, during and after the candidate selection process.

Adopting these strategies might help you on your way to successfully securing a job:

• Don’t rely solely on job agencies and the job centre to do the work for you. The more involved you are in the job-hunting process, the more likely it is you will find suitable employment and feel in control of the outcomes. Wasting precious time waiting for a phone call from job agencies is no longer enough when faced with such tough competition. So get proactive and start browsing for your ideal job.

• Built a rapport. If you are calling companies for speculative applications make sure you introduce yourself, state clearly what you are after and make sure you keep in contact regularly. Having a positive and optimistic attitude on the phone and in any face-to-face meetings are more effective strategies than negativity or complaining when discussing your career prospects so far.

• Track your referees. Sometimes all that stands between you and the job you want are good references. Keep in contact with your referees, inform them of any companies or organisations that may send a reference request form and if possible ensure they are returned to the employer.

• Improve the skills employers are after. If it is relevant to your job, look at investing in a driving licence, a car and other skills that might be vital in performing well in your new career. This will prove to your future employer you are flexible and take responsibility for your own personal development.

• Have a backup plan. While on your way to your dream job, you may have to undertake employment that may be far from your abilities and potential. Flexibility and adaptability in today’s harsh economy are key to survival. Your prospective employer is more likely to be impressed with your ingenuity than seeing a big employment gap on your CV.

I’m hoping that by doing all of this, my chances of gaining my dream job will be vastly improved. Fingers crossed!