Advice needed for job and career focus

Hi everyone,
I hope this message finds everyone well.

I’m seeking some advice on how to find a job and what positions might be suitable for me. A bit about my background:

I have a diverse background, I ran a business in the diamond sector back in Switzerland, served as a sergeant in the army, worked in financial research for a lawyer, moved in the UK in 2018-2019 and gained experience as a chef in a restaurant, stockroom assistant while I learned English enrolled in a college swap year in social science completed AAAABB complete few credits in law than covid HIT pause few months and complete in 2024 a BSc in psychology. Now my position is the following:

I have just concluded a BSc Psychology with Open University (predicted grade 2:1)
I am concluding a certificate in Digital Transformation in HR from London School of Economics graduate at 90% average.
I’m currently pursuing CIPD Level 5.
Planning for a Master in Global Human Management with King's College London.

Despite my qualifications, I’m finding it challenging to land an entry-level position because most employers are looking for experience that I don’t yet have in that role. I must says I haven't applied for those position because I want first to have an opinion from professionals like you.

Could you please provide some advice on the following:

1.Search Strategies: What are the best ways to find job openings that match my qualifications? Are there specific job boards or networks I should be looking into?

2. Focus: Given my background, what types of positions should I be focusing on? Would roles like HR Specialist, Talent Acquisition Specialist, be realistic and beneficial starting points?

3. Gaining Experience: What are some effective ways to gain relevant experience if I’m struggling to get a job? Are internships, volunteering, or freelance projects worth considering at this stage?

4. Networking: How can I leverage networking to increase my chances of finding a job? Any tips on connecting with professionals in my field?

I am based in Aberdeen Scotland, I am also considering moving if this is wise required.

I appreciate any insights or personal experiences you can share. Thanks in advance for your help!

Kind regards
Fabio

Steven over 1 year ago

I would contact your local CIPD branch and actively engage with them, given your location it is likely there are a lot of people from the oil/gas industry at that branch. By engaging with this group, you might find about jobs before they are advertised.
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Fabio over 1 year ago in reply to Steven

Thank you for your advice Steven.
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Katarina Buehling over 1 year ago

Hi Fabio, what a fantastic education trajectory! I wish you a lot of success in this competitive HR, L&D sector! I would advise to utilise CV Library, LinkedIn for your search, setting up relevant job alerts, network with Hiring Managers. Often employers are looking for references, evidence of some relevant work experience, so reaching out to people to endorse your skills, write recommendations via LinkedIn would be a sensible way to prepare. Good Luck, I know too well how hard it is , having Level 7 Cipd, and now trying to secure a more senior level. Best K
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Chiara over 1 year ago

Hi Fabio, I personally would move to London ASAP for my master's degree and apply for jobs within the area, there are a lot of opportunities in London and with your BSc in Psychology you will land a Talent Acquisition role in no time! The best way to gain experience is through volunteering reachvolunteering.org.uk and https://www.charityjob.co.uk are great starting points. For networking, is there a CIPD branch in Aberdeen?
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Fabio over 1 year ago in reply to Katarina Buehling

Thank you Katarina. Very kind. I do have references for each place I had worked with. I will definitely start to network. Thank you again.
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Fabio over 1 year ago in reply to Chiara

Hello Kiki, I am planning the master for September 2025. I am thinking about moving to London but with a family I need to be very careful on the steps I take. I have emailed CIPD north east waiting for a reply. Thank you for your volunteering websit, very kind of you, I will definitely have a look.
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Chiara over 1 year ago in reply to Fabio

Considering a move to London and a master's degree sounds like a big step especially if there are children involved. Good luck! I hope CIPD North East gets back to you soon with positive news.
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Sophie over 1 year ago in reply to Fabio

I'm not convinced on the move to London! There are lots of opportunities there but also lots of competition for jobs so it's all relative, plus you have a higher cost of living while searching. Have a look on jobs websites, if you are truly flexible on location then look at where you are seeing lots of jobs advertised - but keep in mind that it is just a job and we are all vulnerable to business changes, so any move needs to be right for your family for more reasons than just the job.

It is perfectly possible to get your start in HR in any number of places around the UK.
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