In the wake of headlines about the lack of job prospects on the Isle of Man, it is understandable that some may be feeling discouraged and down-hearted. However, there is still much cause for optimism. According to the Isle of Man Treasury Department, unemployment was up in July but there are still plenty of opportunities - last month alone nearly 600 new vacancies were posted on the Island. Sue Gee from TLC Business Solutions believes that the current climate still presents an opportunity for young people to enter the workplace. “However to make this happen you have to improve your chances of getting a job. Have a look at your CV and see how you could update or improve it to really sell yourself, as this is the document that will open the door. Think about what makes you special, and what your strengths are– you need to stand out. As your CV is the first thing that most employers see, you need to make a good impression. When you apply for a position, read the job advert carefully and make sure that your application emphasizes why you are well suited to the role. For each application, you should edit your CV to highlight all of the relevant skills and experience you have for that particular position, including the all important people skills. It is also important to practice your interview technique. Think about the kinds of questions you might be asked and how you could answer them. Ask family and friends to give you a ‘mock interview’ to give you some experience and build your confidence for the real thing. If you are finding it difficult to secure a paid job at the moment, approach companies that you would like to work for to see if they could offer you some unpaid work experience. Relevant experience will make you much more attractive to a future employer, and if you impress the company they may even offer you a job at the end of your placement! Above all, keep positive. All of this preparation will give you the best possible chance to get the job when the right opportunity comes along.” In partnership with the Department of Economic Development, TLC run a number of workshops which aim to help young people gain workplace skills, including reviewing their CV and giving them confidence for interviews. For more information on the DoED workshops go to the jobcentre or careers office. Ends