Are you sending out job applications but never hearing back? You’re not alone.

The most successful job seekers don’t rely on just one method, they use a complete job search strategy that combines recruitment agencies, online job boards, networking, and direct introductions to hiring managers.

Here’s how to make all four work together:

1. Work with Recruitment Agencies Effectively

Recruiters can open doors to roles you’ll never see advertised, but only if you approach them strategically.

How to Use Them Well:

• Register with 2–3 agencies that specialise in your field (IT, HR, finance, etc.)
• Build a relationship: call or meet your recruiter instead of only submitting your CV
• Stay visible: follow up every 2–3 weeks with updates on your availability
• Be clear: define your ideal role so they can advocate for you

Pro Tip: Treat recruiters as partners, not gatekeepers. Make it easy for them to sell you to their clients.

2. Use Online Job Boards Strategically

Job boards like Seek, Trade Me Jobs, and LinkedIn Jobs are useful, but crowded.

How to Stand Out:

• Set up daily alerts so you apply early
• Tailor every application with keywords from the job ad
• Track your applications and follow up after 7–10 days
• Apply to fewer, better-targeted jobs (5–10 quality applications beat 50 generic ones)

Pro Tip: Apply within 48 hours of a job posting, early applicants are far more likely to get interviews.

3. Network Like a Professional

Up to 70% of jobs are never advertised, they’re filled through relationships.

How to Network Effectively:

• Optimise your LinkedIn profile for your target role
• Comment on industry posts and share insights to get noticed
• Attend local meetups, webinars, and industry events
• Ask for advice, not a job—people are far more willing to help this way

Coffee Chat Template:
“Hi [Name], I’m exploring opportunities in [industry] and would love your insights. Could we connect for a quick chat?”

4. Get Direct Introductions to Hiring Managers

This is how you bypass the pile of online applications.

How to Get Introductions:

• Ask former colleagues, friends, or recruiters for referrals
• Use LinkedIn’s 2nd-degree connections:
  “Hi [Name], I see we both know [Mutual Contact]. I’m exploring opportunities in [field] would you be open to a quick chat?”
• Follow up with a thank-you and keep it professional

Pro Tip: Even if they’re not hiring now, you’ll stay top-of-mind when a role opens.

5. Combine All Four for Maximum Results

Here’s a simple weekly job search schedule:

• Monday: Apply to 2–3 targeted jobs on job boards
• Tuesday: Call or email your recruiters for updates
• Wednesday: Attend an industry event or webinar
• Thursday: Send 2–3 LinkedIn connection requests
• Friday: Follow up with introductions or referrals

Final Thoughts

Relying only on job boards is a mistake. By combining recruitment agencies, job boards, networking, and direct introductions, you’ll unlock the hidden job market and dramatically increase your chances.

Start small, stay consistent, and remember, proactive job seekers get hired faster.

Need help building your job search plan?
Book a free 20-minute strategy session and let’s map out your next move. Contact Charles Ryman at: coach@charlesryman.com

From real estate to roofing, plumbing to personal care, these new additions bring more convenience and confidence to locals seeking reputable professionals right on their doorstep. The latest wave includes familiar names from social media shout-outs and inbox welcomes—each business committed to supporting the region and delivering quality service.

Recent joiners include trusted trades like Erect It Scaffolding, Blue Dog Joinery, Greenco Solutions, and Pankhurst Electrical, alongside plumbing experts such as Aqueduct Plumbing and Drainage, JC Plumbing, and Plumbing Bros. The home improvement sector is also well represented with businesses like Distinctive Home & Landscapes, Hurricane Roofing, and Ignite Heat Pumps.

The directory welcomes health and wellness providers like Bloom Family Chiropractic and Waiora Collective, while beauty services such as Reds Hair and Synergy Hair make finding a local stylist more convenient. Automotive support has expanded too, with Elsdon Motors, Plimmerton Auto Services, and Kenepuru Car Service Centre now on board.

Real estate is strongly represented, with new listings including Leah Jefferies (One Agency Select), Fleur Craig (Harcourts Paremata), Euon Murrell (Tommy’s Mana), and Dan Comeskey (Luxe Realty).

With this latest growth, the Porirua Business Directory becomes an even more valuable tool for residents looking to support local and find reliable services in their area.

To find the most trusted businesses, from Tawa to Pukerua Bay, visit: https://wellingtonnews.nz/porirua-business-directory/

With more than 120 stalls showcasing everything from fashion and food to services and handmade crafts, the expo promises a full day of local flavour. Shoppers can look forward to artisanal breads, Pacific-inspired treats, and handcrafted jewellery — all while connecting with local makers, service providers, and community organisations.

“Love Local is a true representation of the diversity of businesses we have operating in Porirua,” said Mayor Anita Baker. The event has steadily grown in popularity, becoming a key calendar highlight for both vendors and residents alike.

This year introduces a new eco-friendly twist. In partnership with Nonstop Solutions, the FillGood reusable serviceware system will be used for food and drink vendors. Attendees can enjoy their meals in reusable cups and trays, which can be returned to designated pink bins for cleaning and reuse — helping reduce single-use waste at the event.

Organisers are encouraging residents to support local and discover new favourites, all while enjoying a fun, family-friendly atmosphere.

For more details and a list of participating vendors, visit poriruacity.govt.nz/lovelocalexpo.

Launched as a pilot in 2022, Mahi Rangatahi was developed in response to feedback from local schools about the need for more meaningful career exposure for students. The programme goes beyond traditional work experience by guiding participants through the full job application process — from writing a CV to completing interviews — and culminates in a reference from their manager to support future employment opportunities.

“The programme develops each year as we receive feedback from the students about what they’ve thought of their experience working at Council,” said Porirua Mayor Anita Baker. “It’s more than just work experience — the students go through an interview process and after their internship wraps up, their manager provides them with a reference to help them into future roles.”

To further support young people exploring career paths, the Porirua Careers Expo is also returning this year. It will be held on Tuesday 13 May from 9.30am to 4.30pm at Te Rauparaha Arena. For more information visit:

https://poriruacity.govt.nz/business/events-and-training/porirua-careers-expo

Part Time – Mornings

Wednesday and Thursday from 5.15 am to 1.45 pm

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CLOSING DATE BELOW IF SPECIFIED

30 Apr 2025

Are you our next Customer Service Representative?

We are excited to share that we are looking for part-time retail stars to join our team! You will be working 16 hours per week on Wednesday and Thursday at 05.15 am – 13.45 pm. Shifts and days of work may change over time – so we are looking for candidates with wide availability and flexibility to work different shift patterns. Please ensure you provide your full availability when applying for this position – so we have the best chance of finding suitable shifts for you.

If you’re looking to kick start your career with a leading brand. We have a lot to offer.

As you would expect from one of the largest global brands in the world, you’ll be rewarded with fantastic benefits including flexible shifts, competitive pay, exclusive 30% off Wild Bean Cafe discounts, comprehensive training and career development.

We’re all about awesome customer service. We know you are too.

You are someone who enjoys keeping busy and gets stuck in to get the job done. You care about people – your teammates and customers. In fact, it is your friendly approach and bright personality that keeps customers coming back. As a Customer Service Representative, you’ll spend a lot of time on your feet keeping shelves stocked, serving customers, making delicious Wild Bean coffees and food, running the till, and keeping the store clean and tidy – because you know it’s the little details that add up to a great customer experience.

Specifically, you bring the following skills and attributes:

• Effective communication skills with a competency in English (reading, writing and speaking)
• Friendly, energetic and approachable with a natural flair for great customer service
• An ability to undertake cleaning activities, replenish and move stock and serve customers at the point of sale
• Confidence to execute in-store promotions
• Attention to detail, the ability to work in accordance with safe work practices and operational procedures, as well as a level-head to carry out emergency activities if required
• A real team player who is keen to wear our brand with pride
• Eligibility to work in NZ

As you progress you might choose to explore other customer service or leadership opportunities in our expanding retail network. Wherever you’re based, a job in bp Retail is your opportunity to join a team of dedicated, friendly and respectful individuals all with one common goal – delivering an awesome retail experience to our customers.

Added 16 April 2025

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https://www.bpjobs.co.nz/en/job/898742/customer-service-representative-part-time-mornings-bp-connect-tawa

Combine your customer service skills and photo editing experience in this PhotoCentre Operator position in our Porirua store, Computers department! This part-time role processes images and provides our customers with photocentre services.

About the Role

This role is responsible for the general coordination and operations of the PhotoCentre providing a positive experience for all customers. Training will be provided on our systems and machinery to ensure you are fully supported when you start with us.

Some key tasks will include:

• Communicate effectively with customers in the PhotoCentre throughout the customer experience.
• Operate photographic processing equipment, ensuring health and safety compliance. 
• Manipulate, edit and restore images following the customer’s brief, using appropriate computer software programs such as Photoshop. 
• Provide PhotoCentre services including creating image disks/USBs for customers, canvas prints, photo gifts, photo books, calendars, greeting cards and photo blocks. 
• Undertake cashiering and sales duties as required.

About You

We are looking for a creative person with a customer first attitude, who is also health and safety conscious.

Some attributes we are looking for include:

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Outstanding customer service skills. Ability to interact proactively, and professionally, with customers. 
• Computer literate and comfortable using imaging technology.
• Photographic or image processing industry and photoshop experience desirable.
• Retail experience desirable.
• Able to work weekends and public holidays essential.

About Us

Harvey Norman was introduced to New Zealand in 1997, since then we have become a household name, with over 45 stores nationwide plus offsite warehouses, commercial offices and the Auckland Support Office. Our diverse team is made up of over 2000 individuals who each bring a uniquely dynamic expertise to the workforce. Harvey Norman continues to grow throughout New Zealand with new stores opening each year and our team grows with us.

We pride ourselves on being a market leader and have a great track record of providing high quality products and outstanding customer service. Here at Harvey Norman we are proud to boast that all our General Managers and retail Store Managers have been promoted from within the business. This is your opportunity to learn from the best and grow to be one of the best!

About the benefits

Our staff make our brand amazing and over the last 25 years have built our business into one of NZ’s leading retailers. Working with us means you get access to some exclusive staff perks, including:

• Discounted; gym membership, eye care, dental care and banking products.
• Exclusive staff discounts on our products.
• Access to Employee Assistant Programme Services (Raise).
• Long service recognition at each of your 5-year milestones.

At Harvey Norman it’s never just a job, it’s a career. If you’re the kind of person who’s dedicated, people-oriented, loves tackling new challenges and has an interest in retail, you’re perfect for us. You’ll be encouraged to show your entrepreneurial side and, if the opportunity arises, explore a role you feel best suits your skill set.

Don’t miss this opportunity, APPLY NOW! – https://www.seek.co.nz/job/83358667?ref=search-standalone&type=standard&origin=showNewTab#sol=607ef36eb0ab5df073d7d7416818ce21105e7790

Porirua’s future workforce was in the spotlight last night at the Porirua Young Employee Awards, an event hosted by Partners Porirua at Kai Tahi. The annual celebration honours outstanding young professionals across various industries, recognising their hard work, leadership, and contributions to the community.

The awards seek to recognise young employees who have demonstrated outstanding performance within an organisation, contributed to the success of their workplace, and shown a commitment to personal growth and development.

Former Olympian, business owner of Aloha Friday, and Tokomanawa Queens coach Tania Tupu delivered an inspiring speech, sharing words of wisdom with the young achievers.

The night’s top honour, Overall Winner, was awarded to Jessica Schnell, a member of the Online & Social Marketing Team at Whittaker’s. Other winners included:

• Community Contribution: Lepeti Pio, Court Registry Officer, Porirua District Court
• Future Leader: Leah Rose Mourra, Venue Services Manager, Te Rauparaha Arena
• Work Ethic: Jesse Free, Mexted Sports Turf
• Workplace Culture: Charlotte Claridge, Coordinator, Customer Support Centre
• Rising Star: Johnson Aumua-Peseta, Ministry of Justice, Porirua District Court

The awards highlight the dedication of Porirua’s young workforce and the strong support from local businesses and organisations. Congratulations to all the nominees and winners for their achievements.

Aotea College is seeking a Sports Coordinator to join our growing and successful sports department. This is a 40-hour-per-week position during school terms only. Due to the nature of the role, some work will be required outside normal school hours.

About the Role

We are looking for a motivated and organised individual who is passionate about engaging youth in sports. The ideal candidate will have strong communication, leadership, and administrative skills, along with experience in sports development and management. However, a developmental growth role may be considered for the right candidate.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, plan, and deliver sports programmes and events.
• Manage at least two major sporting codes (preferably one being basketball), along with several minor codes.
• Maintain a player-centred approach to sports development.
• Stay up to date with sports management trends to ensure high levels of student participation.
• Work collaboratively within a team environment and provide strong administrative support.
• Coaching experience in at least one sport is desirable.
• Website management skills would be an advantage.

What We’re Looking For

• An outstanding communicator who relates well to college-age players.
• Someone who is self-motivated and keeps their skills and knowledge up to date.
• A team player with strong judgement and decision-making abilities.

Salary & Employment Terms

This position is covered by the NZEI Support Staff in Schools Collective Agreement, Admin Grade 4 (or Grade 3 for a developmental role). Appointment is subject to police vetting.

How to Apply

To be considered, applicants must complete the Support Staff Application Form. No further correspondence will be entered into if this is not provided.

📅 Applications close: Friday, 4 April 2025 (Applications will be reviewed as received, and the vacancy may close early).

📩 Send your completed application form, CV, and cover letter to:
Debbie Allan (Principal’s Office) – aln@aotea.school.nz

📧 For any questions, contact:
Phil Roache (Director of Sport) – roe@aotea.school.nz

Company Description

Ko wai mātou – Who we are

The Warehouse Group looks after some of Aotearoa’s most famous and beloved retail brands, including The Warehouse, Warehouse Stationery and Noel Leeming. They stay famous and beloved because we’re always working to deliver relevant and exciting customer experiences to Kiwis, including a growing number of public good and sustainability initiatives. 

Job Description

Te kaupapa o te tūranga – The purpose of the role.

Our Apparel department is seeking an enthusiastic individual with a passion for fashion and a commitment to exceptional customer service to join our team! In this role, you will assist customers with their queries, ensure the department maintains visual appeal by creating attractive displays, and arrange merchandise effectively.

Leveraging your knowledge of the department’s layout, you will ensure that any gaps are promptly filled with the appropriate products.

Hours of work are:

• Tuesday to Saturday – 8am – 4:30pm

Qualifications

He kōrero mōu ake – About you

Experience in a customer-facing role, such as retail or hospitality, would be beneficial, but it’s not a requirement. Ideally you will have good communication skills and a positive attitude, along with a willingness to learn. You should be comfortable standing for extended periods, climbing ladders, and undertaking some heavy lifting

Additional Information

Tā mātou tāpaetanga – What we offer

• Team Card: Access to discounts across our brands. 
• Birthday Leave: To celebrate your special day, you’re entitled to a day of paid leave each year! 
• Here for Good Leave: To do good in your community you’ll have one day of paid leave every year! 
• Career Progression: an excellent steeping stone into other internal opportunities.
• Plus loads more! 

Self-Employed

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ROOM FOR RENT AT EMERGE YOUR BEAUTY – TAWA!

Are you a beauty or wellness professional looking for the perfect space to grow your business? We have a room available for 1, 2, or 3 days a week! (With amazing natural light).

Rates:
$90 + GST per day

$240 + GST for 3 days

What’s included?
✅ Electricity & internet
✅ Massage bed, cabinet, client stool & full-length mirror (if required)
✅ Access to toilet & kitchenette
✅ Work alongside an amazing team in a thriving beauty studio
✅ Great advertising & foot traffic opportunities to help grow your business
 

Flexible Term Contracts – choose from 1, 3, or 6 months!
 

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to take your business to the next level! Email us now to find out more or book a viewing! 

Added 11 March 2025

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emergeyourbeauty@outlook.com

http://www.emergeyourbeauty.com