If you're on the hunt for a new job in Manchester, you're in luck. This vibrant city offers a plethora of resources that can help guide you toward your next opportunity. From professional networks to training programmes and local events, Manchester provides a wealth of support to job seekers across various industries. Whether you're looking to break into a new field, level up in your current career, or start fresh, here are the best resources in Manchester to help you get started on your job search.
1. Manchester Digital and Tech Community
Manchester is rapidly becoming a hub for tech and digital industries, and organisations like Manchester Digital are at the forefront of connecting tech professionals with new job opportunities. As a leading trade association for the digital sector in the city, Manchester Digital offers a wide range of resources, from networking events to training courses that help you sharpen your skills and meet like-minded professionals.
Their website regularly features news about industry events, job opportunities, and workshops to help those in tech or digital marketing improve their expertise. Additionally, their events allow you to network with potential employers and build connections with local start-ups and well-established tech companies. Whether you're a coder, a UX designer, or a digital marketer, the Manchester Digital community is an excellent resource for growing your career.
2. Local Networking Events and Meetups
Networking is an essential part of the job search process, and Manchester has no shortage of events where you can meet industry professionals, share knowledge, and explore new opportunities. The city hosts a variety of meetups and networking events that cater to specific industries, ranging from tech and finance to marketing and the creative arts.
Tech Meetups such as Manchester AI Meetup and Manchester Python User Group offer a chance to meet professionals working in cutting-edge fields, while The Manchester Marketing Meetup brings together people working in branding, advertising, and PR. Similarly, the Creative Mornings Manchester is a global breakfast lecture series that brings together people from all creative disciplines.
These events are great for gaining insights into different industries, building your professional network, and discovering job opportunities through personal connections.
3. Manchester Chamber of Commerce
The Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce is a fantastic resource for anyone looking to grow their professional network and find local job opportunities. As the largest business organisation in the city, the Chamber hosts various events, including job fairs, career development workshops, and industry-specific networking opportunities.
In addition to supporting businesses, the Chamber also assists job seekers by offering access to resources that help with career development, such as mentorship programmes and business seminars. By attending Chamber events, you’ll have the chance to meet employers directly and learn about opportunities in industries such as finance, hospitality, manufacturing, and more.
4. Local Training and Development Centres
Upskilling can give you the edge in a competitive job market, and Manchester offers plenty of options for gaining new skills and certifications. The Manchester Adult Education Service (MAES) offers free or low-cost courses that can help you develop essential skills such as digital literacy, customer service, or project management.
For those looking to enter the tech field, The Coding School and Manchester Metropolitan University’s Digital Skills Programme provide coding bootcamps and short-term courses designed to help you build technical expertise. Additionally, The Factory in the Northern Quarter offers creative industry workshops and development resources for individuals looking to break into design, media, and the arts.
By expanding your skill set, you’ll increase your chances of landing a job and show potential employers that you are proactive about professional growth.
5. Volunteer and Internship Opportunities
If you’re trying to break into a new field or gain more experience, volunteering and internships can be a great way to get your foot in the door. Organisations in Manchester often seek volunteers for various projects, and many of these roles can lead to full-time employment opportunities.
Volunteering Manchester is a great place to start looking for local opportunities. Whether you’re interested in charity work, event planning, or gaining experience in a specific sector, volunteering gives you valuable exposure and the chance to network with professionals in the city. Similarly, many employers in creative sectors offer internships or work placements, giving you the chance to learn on the job and build experience in your desired field.
Volunteering or interning not only adds value to your CV but also allows you to make valuable connections that can lead to future employment.
6. University and College Career Services
If you're a student or recent graduate, university and college career services are fantastic resources for job hunting. Manchester is home to several world-class educational institutions, such as The University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University, both of which offer career advice, job fairs, and graduate-specific resources.
These services often include access to exclusive job listings, career advice sessions, interview coaching, and opportunities to meet with employers looking to hire new graduates. Many universities also offer mentorship programmes where you can connect with alumni in your desired industry, gaining invaluable advice and job leads.
Even if you’ve been out of education for a while, you can still reach out to these career services for support as they often provide services for alumni, including career coaching and job search advice.
7. The Manchester Evening News Jobs Section
The Manchester Evening News (MEN) offers a dedicated job section both online and in print, featuring a wide range of job opportunities across different industries. The MEN frequently features job postings from local businesses in sectors like retail, customer service, hospitality, and more.
In addition to job listings, the MEN often publishes career-related articles, including advice on job search strategies, personal branding, and interview tips. By regularly checking the MEN Jobs section, you can stay up to date on the latest opportunities available in Manchester and learn valuable job search tips.
8. Social Media and LinkedIn
Social media platforms, particularly LinkedIn, are excellent tools for job seekers in Manchester. LinkedIn allows you to not only browse job opportunities but also follow companies that interest you, connect with professionals in your industry, and participate in discussions around your field.
Joining industry-specific groups and following local organisations can help you stay informed about job openings, events, and news in Manchester. Additionally, LinkedIn allows you to reach out to hiring managers directly, which can make a huge difference in a competitive job market.
Similarly, Twitter and Instagram can be useful for following local businesses, networking with professionals, and discovering more about the organisations you want to work for. Many companies post job openings on their social media channels, making it an additional resource to tap into during your job search.
Conclusion
Manchester is a city full of exciting job opportunities, and with the right resources, your job search can be both efficient and successful. From networking events and training programmes to local volunteer opportunities and university career services, there are a wealth of avenues to explore. By taking advantage of these resources, you can increase your chances of finding your next great opportunity and advancing your career in this dynamic city. Good luck!