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London. A city buzzing with opportunity, culture, and millions of people. It’s a global hub for countless industries, from finance and tech to the arts and hospitality. This means jobs are plentiful, but competition is fierce. Landing a role in the capital requires preparation, persistence, and a bit of insider knowledge. Whether you’re a recent graduate, changing careers, or moving to the city, here are six essential things you need to know about job hunting in London.
1. Polish Your Application Essentials
Before you even think about applying, get your basics right. This means having a clean, concise, and up-to-date CV. London employers often receive hundreds of applications for a single role, so your CV needs to make an impact quickly. Tailor it for every job you apply for, highlighting the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. Don’t just list duties; showcase your achievements with concrete examples. Alongside your CV, a compelling cover letter is crucial. Avoid generic templates. Research the company and explain exactly why you want this job and what makes you a great fit for their team. UK standards generally favour a CV of no more than two pages.
2. Understand the London Job Market
London isn’t just one job market; it’s many. Key sectors include finance (The City, Canary Wharf), tech (Silicon Roundabout and beyond), creative industries (Soho, Shoreditch), healthcare (NHS and private), hospitality, and retail. Research the specific industry you’re targeting. What are the current trends? Which companies are hiring? Recent reports suggest that while hiring has been cautious across the UK in early 2025, sectors like tech (especially AI and digital skills), healthcare, and green jobs show strong demand in London. Be aware of salary expectations. London salaries are typically higher than elsewhere in the UK due to the ‘London weighting’, designed to offset the higher cost of living. However, average salary figures vary widely depending on the source and role – some sources place the London average around £42,000-£47,500 (median), while others quote higher averages (£66k). Research typical salaries for your specific role and experience level.
3. Network, Network, Network
In a city as connected as London, who you know can often be as important as what you know. Networking is vital. Utilise LinkedIn to connect with people in your industry, join relevant groups, and engage with content. Don’t just connect randomly; personalise your requests. Attend industry events, workshops, and job fairs – many are now held both in-person and virtually. Reach out to alumni networks from your university. Consider informational interviews – brief chats with people working in roles or companies that interest you, to learn more and make connections. Recruiters also heavily use platforms like LinkedIn to find candidates, so keep your profile updated and professional.
4. Master Online Job Boards and Recruiters
The internet is your primary tool. Familiarise yourself with the main UK job boards. Popular general sites include Indeed, Reed.co.uk, Totaljobs, CV-Library, Monster, and the government’s ‘Find a job’ service. LinkedIn Jobs is also essential. Don’t forget sector-specific sites if you’re in a niche field (e.g., tech, charity, arts). Many companies also advertise directly on their own career pages, so check those regularly. Recruitment agencies can be valuable allies. Find agencies that specialise in your sector. Register with a few, build a relationship with the consultants, and be clear about what you’re looking for. Treat interviews with agencies as seriously as interviews with employers.
5. Prepare for Varied Interview Styles
London employers use a range of interview formats. You might start with a phone screening or an initial video call. Later stages could involve face-to-face interviews (one-on-one or panel), assessment centres (common for graduate schemes and larger companies, involving group tasks, presentations, and tests), or technical tests for specific roles. Competency-based questions (“Tell me about a time when…”) are very common in the UK. Prepare using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers clearly, providing specific examples from your past experience. Always research the company thoroughly and prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer.
6. Factor in Costs and Commuting
London is notoriously expensive. Before accepting a job offer, make sure the salary aligns with the high cost of living. Rent is often the biggest expense, varying hugely depending on the zone and type of accommodation. Monthly costs for a single person (excluding rent) can easily exceed £1,000, with total monthly costs potentially reaching £3,200-£4,400 or more, depending on lifestyle and rent. Factor in transport costs too. London’s public transport network (Tfl) is extensive but can be pricey, especially if commuting across multiple zones. Research potential commute times and costs using tools like the Tfl Go app or Citymapper. Consider whether hybrid or remote work options might help offset these costs.
Landing a job in London is achievable with the right approach. By preparing thoroughly, understanding the landscape, and staying determined, you can navigate the process successfully and start your London career journey. Good luck!
