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Date Published: 17/11/2025
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Step 1: Understand Your Starting Point
Before you begin applying for jobs, it's important to take stock of where you are now. Ask yourself:
- What skills do I already have?
- What kind of work am I interested in?
- What are my strengths and areas for development?
- Do I need any qualifications or training?
This self-assessment helps you identify your goals and the steps needed to reach them. If you're unsure where to start, our National Careers Service Information Sessions are a great first step. These free sessions provide expert guidance on career planning, job searching and training opportunities.
Step 2: Build Confidence and Motivation
Confidence is key when entering or re-entering the workforce. Many adult learners feel uncertain about their abilities, especially if they've been out of work for a while or are changing careers.
Our Employment Essentials courses are designed to help you build confidence in a supportive, accessible environment. These free online courses cover topics such as:
- Personal development
- Communication skills
- Interview preparation
- CV writing and job applications
They're ideal for anyone who wants to feel more prepared and empowered to take the next step.
Browse our Employment Essentials courses
Step 3: Develop Key Skills for the Workplace
Employers look for candidates with strong communication, teamwork, problem-solving and digital skills. Even if you haven't worked in a formal setting before, you may already have these skills from life experience, volunteering or previous roles.
Kent Adult Education offers a variety of courses to help you develop and demonstrate these skills, including:
- Digital Skills for Beginners
- Interview Techniques
These courses are part of our Work Skills and Careers programme.
Browse Work Skills and Careers Courses
Step 4: Gain Recognised Qualifications
If you're looking to improve your job prospects, gaining a recognised qualification can make a big difference. Many employers require basic qualifications in English and Maths, especially for roles in administration, retail, customer service and healthcare.
Our Functional Skills English and Maths courses are designed for adult learners and focus on practical, everyday skills. These qualifications are nationally recognised and help you:
- Meet entry requirements for jobs or apprenticeships
- Progress to further training or education
- Improve your confidence in reading, writing and numeracy
Courses are flexible and supportive, with tutors who understand the challenges adult learners face.
Browse our English & Maths Courses
Step 5: Create a Tailored CV and Personal Profile
Your CV is your personal marketing tool - it should showcase your skills, experience and potential in a clear and compelling way. A strong CV can help you stand our and secure interviews.
Our Employment Essentials: Personal Profiles and Tailored CVs course is specifically designed to help you:
- Write a professional personal profile
- Tailor your CV to different job roles
- Highlight your achievements and strengths
- Understand what employers are looking for
This course is ideal for anyone who wants to refresh their CV or create one from scratch with expert guidance.
Browse Employment Essentials Courses
Step 6: Explore Career Options and Opportunities
If you're not sure what kind of job you want, or you're thinking about changing careers, it's important to explore your options. The National Careers Service can help you:
- Discover new career paths
- Understand the skills and qualifications needed
- Access training and support
- Find job opportunities in your area
Our Introduction to the National Careers Service Information Sessions are a great way to learn more and get personalised training.
Browse our National Careers Service Sessions
Step 8: Start Job Searching
Once you're confidence in your skills and have a strong CV, it's time to start applying for jobs. Here are some tips:
- Use job boards like Indeed, Reed and Gov.UK Find a Job
- Set up email alerts for new vacancies
- Apply for role that match your skills and interests
- Keep track of applications and follow up when needed
Our Job Search courses can help you learn how to search effectively, write cover letters and manage your applications.
Browse our Employment Essentials Courses
Step 9: Stay Positive and Keep Learning
Job searching can take time, and it's normal to face setbacks. The key is to stay positive, keep learning and use every experience as a stepping stone.
Kent Adult Education offers ongoing support through:
- Free online courses for job seekers (subject to eligibility)
- Functional Skills qualifications
- National Careers Service sessions
- Personal development and confidence-building workshops
We're here to help you stay motivated and move forward.
Getting job ready is a journey, and every step you take brings you closer to your goal. Whether you're returning to work, changing careers or starting out, Kent Adult Education has the resources, courses and support you need.
Browse Work Skills and Careers Courses