JOBSEEKERS Recruitment Services are now approaching their 40th anniversary, and are Taunton’s sole remaining independent agency specialising in the commercial recruitment sector.

Managing director John Farmer believes that caution is likely to be the byword for local employers as we approach 2011.

With the high emphasis on public sector employment in the local area, the full impact of the recent “Comprehensive Spending Review” has yet to be felt while the forthcoming rise in VAT will inevitably hit consumers and business alike.

Furthermore, changes planned for 2012 within the structure of the NHS in relation to primary care, are likely to have implications for one of this region’s largest employers. Job-hunters across the county have found opportunities thin on the ground since the onset of the global recession, which initially manifested itself in the local market around October 2008.

Signs of recovery have been inconsistent, and both procurement and employment legislation emanating from Central and European Government sources seems to have done little to encourage business in the areas of growth or employment.

As recent indicators have actually been slightly more positive businesses and jobseekers can only hope that the forecast private sector growth can be achieved.

When an opportunity does arise, too many candidates are failing to do themselves justice, whether this is due to a poorly constructed application form, cover letter or CV, lack of interview preparation or individual performance on the day.

Key tips include ensuring that your CV is accurate, up-to-date and free of spelling mistakes, that you understand the role that you are applying for and are able to articulate why it is of interest, have researched the company and are well presented and communicative at interview. Many people can be nervous, so remember to have positive body language, good eye contact and if you are worried about going blank, a short list of pre-prepared questions.

Above all remember that an interview is a two way process.