Real Hacks to help you find a job

Job Search Hacks for Job Hunters in Ireland (Because ‘Spray and Pray’ Isn’t a Strategy)
Looking for a job in Ireland at the moment? You’re not alone!!! And if it feels like the Wild West out there, that’s because it is. Between ghost job ads, recruiters vanishing like your socks in the wash, and applications going into the abyss, it’s easy to lose heart. But don’t worry, there are smart ways to job hunt that don’t involve refreshing Indeed every 5 minutes!!!
Here’s our no nonsense guide to job search hacks that actually work:
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1. Get Hyper Focused on What You Want
Before you fire off another half-hearted CV to a job you don’t really want, pause. Ask yourself:
• What kind of work energises you?
• What’s your ideal working setup? Is it remote, hybrid, part-time, flexible?
• What industries or companies align with your values?
You’re not a Swiss Army knife. You don’t have to be everything to everyone. Pick your lane and go for it.
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2. Your CV. Tailor It or Trash It
Sending the same CV and cover letter to 47 different companies is an utterly pointless exercise. Employers can smell generic from a mile off. YOU MUST tweak your CV for each role:
• Use keywords from the job ad.
• Show how your experience solves their problems.
• Add a punchy profile at the top (ditch the ubiquitous “hard-working team player” waffle).
• There is no excuse for a shoddy CV in this AI driven world ( and we’ve seen plenty!). Use AI tools to help!
CVs should be clear, concise, and results driven. If you haven’t updated yours in forever, it’s time. ( We can help!)
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3. Get active on LinkedIn
If you’re not using LinkedIn properly, you’re leaving money on the table. This is your digital shopfront. Try the following:
• Headline: Use specific keywords (“Finance Manager | FMCG | Cost Control & Strategy” is better than “Out of Work”).
• About section: Tell your story. Make it human. You are the product.
• Connect strategically: Reach out to hiring managers, ex-colleagues, decision-makers.
• Post and comment on other people posts! A little professional opinion or insight once a week keeps you visible.
Hot tip: Change your settings to “Open to Work” (this can be done without visibility but recruiters can see this)
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4. Become a Stalker
If you want a job in a certain company, go all out Private Investigator on it. Find someone who works there. Reach out politely and ask for 10 minutes to pick their brain. Most people in Ireland are sound and will help if they can. This is how many jobs are actually landed these days, not always through formal ads.
(might be doing ourselves out of a job here with this advice!)
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5. Your Network Is Your Net Worth
Yes, it’s a cliché. But it’s true. Many roles never even get advertised. They’re filled through “someone who knows someone.” So tell everyone:
• “I’m looking for X role in Y area.” Be very clear and concise as to what kind of a role you are looking for and where
• “I’m open to flexible/hybrid work in Z industry.”
Ask for intros. Ask for advice. People love to help, but they can’t help you if you are vague so make sure your network knows exactly what you are seeking.
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6. Upskill
No, you don’t need a Master’s in Everything. But a short, sharp course to fill a gap? Absolutely. Look at:
• Google Career Certificates (free or cheap)
• Springboard+ (many are free or at reduced cost)
• Coursera/Udemy (for digital, marketing, data skills)
Highlighting a relevant recent course also shows employers you’re proactive and engaged.
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7. Treat Your job Search Like a Job
Structure your job hunt. Don’t scroll randomly at midnight in your PJs with a glass of red in one hand. (OK, maybe occasionally.)
Try this:
• 1 hour on job boards
• 1 hour tailoring applications
• 30 mins networking or LinkedIn activity
• 30 mins upskilling or researching companies
Get laser focused and organised.
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8. Use Flexible Work to Your Advantage
Here’s the truth: more employers are open to flexible work, but they’re not shouting about it. That’s where platforms like Employflex.ie come in. We only work with companies who get it : flexibility, fairness, and actual human decency.
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And Finally…
Job hunting can be tough, especially in a market that feels like musical chairs with fewer chairs. But it’s also an opportunity to reset, rethink and go after something better.
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Want a personalised CV audit or a career strategy session? We’ve got your back. Drop us a line at info@employflex.ie and let’s glow your career up.