Landing that perfect job is not a matter of chance or luck except in one respect. You create the chance, and you make your own luck. Of course there are other factors that will influence things, but by and large employers want the best person for the job. They have even gone to the trouble of writing out exactly what they want and who they are looking for.

So really there is nothing to leave to chance, unless it is you matching that skill set and being in the right place. Take these steps to move forward.

Training and upskilling
How is your training in terms of your potential and ideal job?

Is there a way you could enroll in a course and undergo further training?

It is fair to say that you should never miss an opportunity to upskill. It may be that you have been out of this area for a while. Are there courses that could help you?

For example, there could be a general course in computer systems, IT and say bookkeeping that would increase your employability.

The other aspect of some or any training is that it shows you are keen. Keen is ready to learn, and every employer will have that on their wish list. So find out where the training is happening and get yourself enrolled.

CV smart
There’s so much riding in this document that it is difficult to overestimate how important it is for you to have the best CV you can put together. You can download free professional looking templates.

You could also approach an agency to write one for you. It would be a good idea to find the right layout, or rather the preferred layout for the industry you are thinking of applying to. This will also apply to the length of the CV and how much detail you are going to need.

Make sure that your CV is kept up to date. There should be no glaring gaps. It can pay to have a couple of referees lined up just in case you are asked.

Find the job listings
Along with everything else, job vacancies have largely moved online. Recruitment specialists are going to be best placed to help you in several respects. They will have the most updated and relevant job listings. They will also be able to guide you in terms of your suitability for the post. They may well also be able to give you tips and suggestions for your application and even interview.

Getting ready for interview
Find out as much as you can about the company you are applying to. Have intelligent questions prepared. Be interested in the post.

Make sure you are dressed appropriately. Arrive early to give yourself time to be composed.  Pay attention to your body language and give it your best shot.

Finally, whatever happens after the interview, learn from it. Ask for feedback, and while you are waiting to hear, keep looking!

This post has been contributed by Ryan Gatt, it may contain affiliate links.