How I did it: I thought about where I wanted to be long term and then made a shortlist of employers, with one at the very top. I checked their vacancies every day and made sure that I was ready when I got my foot in the door. Although I didn't succeed in my first application, I managed to get a place on my second.

Lessons & tips:

• Check the vacancies every day and prepare your CV/application form in advance - tailor it to the job advertised to highlight your strengths.
• Be enthusiastic at interview
• Go the extra mile when researching the role so that you can show your interest at interview. For instance, be able to talk about recent news in that industry or organisation. Have relevant questions ready to ask
• If the employer rejects you, but asks you to stay in touch - do drop them a short email to remind them a few weeks afterwards in case any other vacancies arise.
• If you do go for a similar, yet different role - change your application slightly to demonstrate extra effort.
• Don't give up!

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Nov 18, 2008, 10:32AM PST | 3 comments | 12 cheers