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There's no denying it – searching for a job really is a full-time job in itself, and unfortunately it doesn't get any easier as you get older. Sometimes, it can be helpful to take a step back and really think about your approach before bashing out the job applications. Taking a different angle can give you a fresh boost of confidence if you're feeling in a rut, and hopefully land you that opportunity you've been searching for!

When you apply for a job via an online application process, it’s very likely that your resume will first be screened by an applicant tracking system and then (assuming you make this first cut) move onto human eyeballs.Study the job description and any available information you have on the position. Are you mirroring the words and phrases in the job description? Are you showcasing your strengths in the areas that seem to be of paramount importance to this role? Line it up.By lining up with people on the inside of the companies at which you want to work, you will instantly set yourself apart. Decision makers interview people who come recommended or by way of a personal referral before they start sorting through the blob of resumes that arrives by way of the ATS (Applicant Tracking System). Particularly thanks to technology, the job market is constantly evolving at such a pace that there are heaps of jobs out there that you've probably never even heard of – and that didn't exist back when you were speaking to your careers councillor at school.Choosing to go down a less traditional career path can also mean less competition, and you might find there are more opportunities available if you expand your horizons and start looking at more niche positions.

How you handle the application process will give potential employers an idea of the kind of worker you are. For example, someone who takes initiative by emailing a senior member of staff to ask for a coffee will give off a much more positive, go-getter impression than someone who just sends in a flat CV and copy/pasted cover letter. Make sure that if you go for this option you do some serious research about the company before you make your move. You don't want to be caught out as not really understanding who the company are and what they do, as it would make all your effort go to nothing.And finally, remember that the interviewer cares much more about what you can do for them than what you want out of the deal. Certainly, they’re going to care a bunch about what you want once you establish your worth. But during the interview, you must demonstrate why you make business sense to hire, period.