The Best Job Search Resources in Liverpool: Where to Start

Published on February 6

If you’re on the lookout for a new job in Liverpool, you’ve got plenty of options. The city has a thriving economy and a variety of industries, making it a great place to build a career. Whether you’re looking for work in tech, healthcare, retail, or the arts, Liverpool has a wealth of resources to help you in your job search. Here’s a guide to some of the best job search resources in Liverpool that don’t involve job boards or recruitment agencies.

1. Liverpool City Council Employment Support

The Liverpool City Council offers a wide range of employment support services for those looking for work in the city. Their Liverpool Works programme is an excellent resource for local job seekers, providing personalised advice, training, and job search workshops. Whether you need help with writing your CV, preparing for an interview, or understanding which sectors are hiring, the council offers free, tailored support to give you the best chance of landing a job.

In addition to career coaching, the council also provides access to employment schemes aimed at developing skills and enhancing employability. This service can be particularly helpful for individuals who are new to the workforce, looking to change careers, or facing barriers to employment.

2. Local Networking Events and Meetups

Networking is an essential part of any job search, and Liverpool offers a variety of events and meetups where you can connect with local employers and professionals across industries. Whether you're in tech, digital marketing, business, or the arts, there are ample opportunities to meet like-minded individuals and potential employers.

Liverpool Digital is one such community, hosting regular meetups for professionals working in tech, digital marketing, and other related fields. Similarly, Liverpool Chamber of Commerce holds networking events that allow business professionals and job seekers to connect, discuss industry trends, and explore potential opportunities.

Using platforms like Meetup and Eventbrite, you can find networking events, skill-building workshops, and industry-specific seminars happening throughout Liverpool. These events can be invaluable for making new connections and learning about job openings that may not be advertised elsewhere.

3. Liverpool’s Enterprise Hub

For those with an entrepreneurial spirit or interested in working with startups, Liverpool’s Enterprise Hub provides a wealth of resources for aspiring business owners and employees of growing companies. Located at the LIVERPOOL Science Park, the hub offers support for individuals interested in launching a new business or those seeking to join one of Liverpool's dynamic startups.

The Enterprise Hub provides access to workshops, training, and mentoring from industry experts, giving job seekers the chance to gain new skills and insight into Liverpool's thriving startup scene. Whether you're looking for your first role in a startup or hoping to pivot into the world of entrepreneurship, the Enterprise Hub is a fantastic resource.

4. Liverpool Universities’ Careers Services

If you’re a recent graduate or currently studying in Liverpool, the career services at University of Liverpool and Liverpool John Moores University are excellent places to start. These universities offer a wide range of support services for students and graduates, from career advice to help with job searching and CV writing.

University career services often host employer-led events, job fairs, and networking opportunities, which can be invaluable for building connections with potential employers. The universities also maintain close links with local businesses and organisations, which often leads to exclusive job opportunities and internships being made available to students and graduates. Even if you've already graduated, many of these services are available to alumni, providing long-term career support.

5. Volunteering and Work Experience

If you're finding it difficult to secure paid work right away, consider volunteering or undertaking work experience to build up your CV and gain local experience. Liverpool has a rich community of charitable organisations, museums, and community projects that offer volunteer roles across a wide variety of sectors.

Voluntary Services Liverpool (VSL) is a great resource for discovering volunteer opportunities in the city. Volunteering not only helps you gain new skills and experience but also allows you to network with individuals who can offer career advice or direct you to paid positions.

In addition, many companies in Liverpool offer work placements or internships, which can be a fantastic way to get your foot in the door of a company. Whether in the creative industries, healthcare, or business, temporary or unpaid positions can often lead to permanent employment if you make a strong impression.

6. Local Libraries and Community Centres

Libraries and community centres in Liverpool are often overlooked but can be invaluable resources for job seekers. Many libraries in the city offer free access to job search tools, books on career development, and online job searching platforms. You can also find resources on improving your interview skills, CV writing, and general job market advice.

Additionally, some community centres and libraries in Liverpool host job clubs or career support workshops, where you can get assistance with your job applications, meet other job seekers, and even receive one-on-one advice from local employment experts.

The Central Library and Toxteth Library, for example, regularly host career-related workshops and events aimed at helping local job seekers navigate the competitive Liverpool job market.

7. Sector-Specific Hubs and Innovation Centres

Liverpool is home to several sector-specific hubs and innovation centres that can help you connect with employers and gain industry-specific advice. For example, the Liverpool Knowledge Quarter brings together experts and businesses in fields like life sciences, healthcare, digital technology, and the creative industries.

By engaging with these hubs, you can stay informed about new developments, attend industry-focused events, and access resources that can help you find a job within a specific sector. The Liverpool Life Sciences Accelerator and the Liverpool CCI Hub for creative industries are two examples of places that support innovation and connect professionals with potential employers.

8. Local Job Fairs and Career Events

Liverpool hosts a variety of job fairs and career events throughout the year, where employers from across the city and the wider region come together to showcase their latest job openings. These events are perfect for anyone looking to meet employers face-to-face, get an idea of the skills and experience they’re looking for, and submit applications directly to hiring managers.

The Liverpool Jobs Fair is a popular event that brings together employers from multiple industries. Job seekers can attend, meet employers in person, and even attend career-related seminars. This is an excellent way to learn about the current state of the job market in Liverpool and make connections with hiring professionals.

Conclusion

Liverpool offers a wealth of resources for job seekers looking to break into the job market or take the next step in their careers. Whether you’re tapping into local support services through the city council, attending networking events, or gaining experience through volunteering, there’s no shortage of opportunities to help you along the way. By leveraging the city’s vast array of resources, you can make your job search more efficient, build your network, and ultimately find the role that’s right for you.