Finding a job
- Introduction
- Where to look for jobs
- Apply for a job
- Job interviews
- Schemes and training supports for jobseekers
Introduction
If you are looking for a job, there are many ways to get information and supports to help you in your search.
To be successful in your job search, stay updated on sources of information on vacancies.
You can also look at other options, such as self-employment, returning to education or volunteering to get work experience. If you are coming from outside Ireland to work, you can read about migrant workers and unemployment.
Where to look for jobs
You should regularly check these sources for new job opportunities:
Your Intreo Centre or Social Welfare branch office
Visit or call your local Intreo centre for information and advice on job vacancies. You can read more about employment services for jobseekers.
Websites
The Jobs Ireland website lists jobs available in Ireland and abroad. It also lists internships and employment programme vacancies. You can upload your CV so employers can access it and contact you directly.
Social media
Some social media sites post job vacancies and connect jobseekers with employers. Some employers share job opportunities on their own company's social media accounts.
Newspapers
National and local newspapers, both print and online, often list jobs.
Recruitment agencies
The National Recruitment Federation (NRF) has a directory of recruitment agencies. You often need to register with these private companies, who may get a fee from the employer if you get the job. Contact specialist recruitment agencies if you are looking for a particular type of work.
Notices
Look for local jobs advertised in shop and restaurant windows, in libraries, in supermarkets and on community noticeboards.
Open days and recruitment days
Some employers and industries hold open days to recruit staff. Find out about these events online or in local newspapers.
Company websites
Visit the websites of companies relevant to your area of work. They may only advertise vacancies on their own website.
Personal contacts
Ask friends or relatives if they know of job opportunities.
Apply for a job
When applying for a job, you usually need to give the employer your CV (curriculum vitae) or complete an online application form. A good CV or application is essential when looking for a job, so you can sell yourself to an employer.
Your CV or application form includes your:
- Contact details
- Qualifications and training
- Work experience
- Key skills
- References
Before sending your CV or application
Research the company and the job and tailor your CV or application to match the job’s requirements.
If the job advert asks for it, write a cover letter or fill out an application form.
Getting help with your CV, cover letter or online application form
If you are unemployed, your local employment service (LES) can help you with your CV, job application form and interview skills – see ‘Schemes and training supports for jobseekers’ below.
You can also contact your local Youth Information Centre for help with your CV and cover letter. Youth Information Centres are located all around Ireland. They offer a free, confidential information service to people aged 12 to 25.
Employment equality
Employment equality legislation protects you during the job application process. Employers cannot discriminate against you based on race, gender, age or family status. You can find out about all 9 grounds of discrimination.
Job interviews
Prepare for your job interview by:
- Researching the company and the role
- Practicing your answers to sample questions
- Being very familiar with your CV and application form
- Planning your journey to make a good impression
You can get useful interview tips online.
If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech impairment, you can apply for the Job Interview Interpreter Grant (JIIG) to get an interpreter’s assistance.
After the interview
After the interview, you can ask the employer for feedback on your performance. They don’t have to give you feedback, but they may do so as a courtesy (politeness).
Can I see my interview notes?
If the employer ignores or refuses your informal request for interview feedback, you have the right to request your interview notes under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).
Schemes and training supports for jobseekers
Local Employment Services (LES), help people who are long-term unemployed to:
- Find jobs
- Connect with local employers
- Get information on training options and employment schemes
Find more information on getting a job on the Irish National Organisation of the Unemployed website.
Schemes for people getting social welfare payments
If you have been on jobseeker payments, or certain other social welfare payments for a certain length of time, you can apply for employment support schemes. These schemes help people who are long-term unemployed to return to work.
Some schemes, such as the Community Employment (CE) scheme, provide jobs in the community. Other schemes, such as the Back to Work Enterprise Allowance, helps you become self-employed while also keeping some of your payment.
The Training Support Grant (TSG) is also available for jobseekers who get certain other payments. The TSG is for short-term training that is not available from another state provider, or training that will help you to get a job quickly.