Using Job boards to find your next Financial Controller role
Using Job boards to find your next Financial Controller role
Using job boards to find your next Financial Controller (FC) role is a strategic approach in today’s digital job market. These platforms offer a wide array of opportunities, ranging from startups to multinational corporations, and can significantly streamline the job search process for finance professionals. Here’s how to effectively utilize job boards to secure your next FC position:
Identify the Right Job Boards
Start with a broad search on popular general job boards like Indeed, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and Monster. These platforms host a wide variety of listings across industries and locations. However, don’t overlook niche job boards specific to finance and accounting professionals, such as eFinancialCareers, AccountingJobsToday, and FinancialJobBank. Niche job boards can offer more targeted opportunities relevant to your expertise and career goals.
Create a Compelling Profile
On platforms like LinkedIn, your profile serves as your digital resume and first impression. Ensure your profile is complete, up-to-date, and reflects your professional brand. Highlight your experience as a Financial Controller, including your technical skills, leadership abilities, and significant achievements. Use keywords related to FC roles in your summary and experience sections to improve visibility in search results.
Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter
When applying for roles found on job boards, tailor your resume and cover letter to each position. Emphasize the experiences and skills that align with the job description and requirements. Incorporating keywords from the job listing can also help your application pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) used by many employers to screen submissions.
Set Up Job Alerts
Most job boards offer the functionality to set up job alerts based on specific criteria such as job title, company, location, and keywords. Setting up alerts for “Financial Controller” positions will ensure you receive immediate notifications when new roles are posted, giving you an advantage in applying early.
Network and Engage
Networking remains a crucial element of the job search process. Engage with companies and recruiters on job boards and social media platforms. Participating in discussions, joining relevant groups, and connecting with industry professionals can increase your visibility and open up more opportunities.
Apply Strategically
Applying strategically for Financial Controller (FC) positions is about quality over quantity. It involves carefully selecting opportunities where your qualifications and career aspirations align closely with the role and the company’s culture and values. This focused approach not only enhances your chances of moving forward in the hiring process but also increases the likelihood of finding a position that is truly fulfilling and suited to your long-term career goals. Here are key strategies to apply more effectively:
Research and Selectivity
Start with thorough research on the companies that are hiring. Look beyond the job description to understand the company’s mission, values, industry standing, and workplace culture. Use this information to assess whether the organization aligns with your career aspirations and personal values. Being selective and applying to companies that genuinely excite you will reflect in your application and interviews, making you a more compelling candidate.
Tailor Your Application
Customizing your resume and cover letter for each application is crucial. Highlight your experiences, skills, and achievements that are most relevant to the specific FC role you’re applying for. Demonstrate how your background makes you an ideal fit for the position and the company. For instance, if the role emphasizes financial strategy and analysis, showcase your successes in these areas. Tailoring your application shows employers that you have a genuine interest in the role and have taken the time to understand their needs.
Utilize Keywords
Many companies use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen resumes before they reach a human eye. To get past these filters, incorporate keywords and phrases from the job description into your resume and cover letter. This includes specific skills, qualifications, and industry terminology relevant to the FC role. However, ensure that the use of keywords feels natural and aligns with your actual experience and skills.
Leverage Your Network
Your professional network can play a significant role in a strategic job application process. Reach out to contacts within your industry or the companies you’re interested in. They can provide insights into the company culture, the role, and even refer your application, which can significantly boost your chances. Networking can also uncover hidden opportunities that may not be advertised on job boards.
Focus on Fit and Contribution
In your application and particularly in your cover letter, focus on how you can contribute to the company, not just on what you hope to gain from the position. Employers are looking for candidates who can add value to their team and help achieve company goals. Discuss specific ways your skills and experience can benefit the company, drawing on examples from your past roles where possible.
Quality over Quantity
Instead of sending out dozens of generic applications, invest your time and effort in a smaller number of high-quality, customized applications. This approach allows you to spend more time on each application, improving its overall quality and making a stronger case for why you are the best candidate for the job.
Follow-Up Thoughtfully
After submitting an application, consider sending a brief, polite follow-up email to express your continued interest in the role and to reiterate how you can contribute to the company. This can help keep your application top of mind, but be mindful not to overdo it—a single follow-up is generally sufficient.
Applying strategically for Financial Controller positions means doing your homework, being selective, and tailoring your application to demonstrate a strong fit with the role and the company. This focused approach not only increases your chances of success but also helps ensure that the roles you’re applying for are those where you can truly thrive and contribute significantly.
Prepare for the Next Steps
After applying, prepare for the next steps by researching the companies, refining your interview skills, and preparing to discuss how you can add value as a Financial Controller. Be ready to present examples of your work, such as financial strategies you’ve implemented or how you’ve improved financial reporting and efficiency in past roles.
Conclusion
Job boards are a valuable tool in your job search arsenal, offering access to a wide range of Financial Controller positions. FD Capital have one of the UK’s most popular Financial Controller jobs boards. By identifying the right platforms, creating a compelling profile, tailoring your applications, setting up job alerts, engaging in networking, and applying strategically, you can maximize your chances of finding and securing your next FC role. Remember, persistence, and a proactive approach are key to navigating the job market successfully.
