Did you know that up to 75% of CVs never even make it past the initial screening stage? In today’s fast-paced digital job market, clicking “Apply Now” without a clear plan could cost you valuable opportunities.
It’s easier than ever to apply for roles online, but without the right approach, many applicants waste time chasing jobs they’re not truly aligned with. Whether you’re seeking your first internship, aiming for a graduate role, or switching careers entirely, effective job searching goes far beyond hitting “send.” It starts with understanding what you’re applying for-and more importantly-why you’re applying.
At Lateral Connect, we don’t just train future cyber professionals-we also guide them through strategic job readiness. From CV tips to making sense of job descriptions, our goal is to help every mentee and partner take meaningful steps toward long-term success. In this issue, we’ll explore how to job search with purpose and precision.
From Click to Career: How to Job Search the Right Way
Job searching today can feel like a full-time job in itself-especially when you’re juggling coursework, family commitments, or existing employment. While it’s tempting to apply for as many roles as possible, a scattergun approach often leads to burnout and rejection. That’s why being strategic in your job search is more important than ever.
At Lateral Connect, we remind students and early-career professionals that clarity comes before action. Ask yourself:
- What type of role am I looking for?
- Does this job align with my skill set, values, and career goals?
- Have I taken the time to understand the job description?
Far too often, candidates overlook job descriptions, instead focusing on surface-level appeal-like salary, company name, or location. But without the necessary experience or competencies, you’re setting yourself up for disappointment.
What should you do before applying?
- Read the job description thoroughly. Look for the key skills, responsibilities, and expectations.
- Update your CV. Make sure contact details are current, and all experience is relevant to the role.
- Check for spelling and grammar errors. These minor mistakes can have a major impact on your credibility.
- Tailor your application. Use the language of the job post and reflect the company’s values and tone.
The purpose of the job description is to help you self-assess: Am I the right fit for this role? Do I have what they’re looking for?
If the answer is yes-then go for it. But if not, take the time to fill in the gaps or focus on opportunities better suited to your profile.
Our mentors at Lateral Connect are trained to help you answer these questions with confidence, guiding you through personalised job strategies that work across industries-not just in cybersecurity.
The job market doesn’t just reward the quickest applicants-it rewards the right ones. Successful job searching starts with self-awareness, strong preparation, and a sharp eye for detail.
At Lateral Connect, we’re committed to equipping our students and mentees with more than just technical knowledge-we empower them to take charge of their careers with strategy and confidence. Whether you’re navigating internships, part-time work, or full-time roles, our mentoring programme ensures you’re applying with intention, not just impulse.
🎯 Take the next step:
→ Students: Join our mentoring programme and get tailored guidance on job search best practices.
→ Partners: Tap into a pool of well-prepared, career-ready talent eager to make an impact from day one.
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