The world of work continues to evolve. New technology, changing industry needs and shifting skills demand mean the jobs available today may look very different from those in the past. Key trends shaping today’s job market include: Growth in digital, technology and professional roles, with AI and automation changing how work gets done. Increasing demand for digital and transferable skills across many sectors. Employers placing greater emphasis on skills and adaptability, not just formal qualifications. Some traditional roles changing or declining as industries modernise, while new types of jobs emerge. Understanding these trends can help you plan your next steps, whether that’s updating your skills, exploring new sectors, or preparing for future opportunities. Helpful resources: Understanding how AI and new technologies are shaping future jobs: This new government research report highlights how AI and technology are transforming job roles and skills demand to 2035, with growth in many tech‑related occupations: AI Skills for Life and Work: Labour market and skills projections - GOV.UK Free AI training for all, as government and industry programme expands to provide 10 million workers with key AI skills by 2030 - GOV.UK AI Skills Boost - AI Skills Hub Where future UK job opportunities are expected to grow: This official analysis shows which sectors and occupations are expected to grow through to 2030, helping users understand where job opportunities may be available: Assessment of priority skills to 2030 - GOV.UK Skills employers value most in the UK job market: A recent data‑backed article showing skills employers care about now, including digital and AI‑related skills — suitable for helping jobseekers focus their development: Top 10 In-Demand Skills in the UK Job Market for 2026 (Backed by Data) - UK Jobs Alert

Job sites are a valuable resource for exploring roles, but the best results come when you use them as part of a broader strategy. Think of them as a library to research opportunities, not just a place to click “apply.” Whenever possible: apply via the employer’s website – this ensures your application is received directly and shows initiative. reach out to the employer – a short email or LinkedIn message to understand the role can make you stand out. use LinkedIn – research companies, connect with professionals, and see which skills and experiences employers value. Key job search tools: Find a Job – Government’s official job search site. Set up alerts and follow @JCPinPlymouth for local jobs, events, and careers advice - https://findajob.dwp.gov.uk/ Job Help – Lists national recruitment campaigns across NHS, care, retail, logistics, and food production - https://jobhelp.campaign.gov.uk/latest-jobs/ Imployable App - Build a digital CV, explore career paths, check skills fit, and access coaching videos. Use the job board to apply once you’re ready - https://imployable.me/ Tips to make the most of job websites: treat them as a research hub to understand what employers want keep track of roles you’re interested in, key skills required, and deadlines combine online applications with direct networking and employer contact for the strongest chance of success regularly update your LinkedIn profile and connect with recruiters or people working in your target sectors. Job sites include: CV Library Indeed Jobsite Monster Reed Total Jobs Glassdoor Plymouth Jobs Plymouth Live

Did you know, that if you are claiming Universal Credit, your Job Centre Work Coach can help you with more than looking for and applying for jobs and training? Support with travel: The Job Centre can fund travel costs for the first three months of you starting your job. The most reasonable expectation is through the provision of a bus pass, as this is often the most economical route possible. Whilst taxis may be a consideration, this is often not a sustainable long-term plan, and this support is all about helping get you into a new routine. If taxis are required as you are unable to use public transport due to a health condition, your Work Coach can help you to apply the Access to Work (A2W) scheme, which can provide help on a long-term basis. Note: travel costs have to be agreed and paid upfront in advance of the job start in all instances, and receipted evidence is required. If no receipt is provided to prove what the money has been spent on, the costs will not be covered. Support with childcare: The first place you should look at for childcare support is the government-funded childcare offer - Homepage | Childcare Choices After that, any amounts not funded via the main government-funded provision can be claimed using the two types of childcare support offered through the Job Centre: 1. Flexible Support Funded (FSF) Upfront Childcare 2. The Job Centre's ongoing 85% childcare support offer for claimants. The Flexible Support Fund via the Job Centre covers the first month of childcare for UC claimants, upfront and directly to the childcare provider, covering up to 100% of the costs. There is a maximum limit of up to £1,194 per month for one child and £2,047 for two or more children. The Job Centre's 85% childcare offer, is done on a monthly claim basis. UC claimants can submit a childcare claim for up to 85% of their childcare costs with maximum limits and then use this money to pay forward for the second month of childcare. The process is repeated on an ongoing basis to continually pay a month in advance. Still confused and need a bit more support? Select the ‘how to manage your universal credit claim’ tab from the home page of your UC account, and then ‘ claiming money for childcare costs’. It will give you lots of useful information. Or if in doubt, ask your Work Coach.

Plymouth is a city of growing opportunity and ambition, with a diverse range of employers across sectors like marine autonomy, defence, advanced engineering, digital, creative industries, health and social care, construction, and business services. It’s a place where career possibilities and quality of life come together so you can build your future and “Make life an adventure”. Local opportunities can be found across sectors that are shaping the city’s economic future, from marine science and autonomy to healthcare, digital technologies and sustainability, offering jobs for people at all stages of their careers  whether you’re starting out, changing direction, returning to work, or looking to progress further. Meet employers and explore careers One of the best ways to connect with employers and learn about career pathways is through local careers events and job fairs where you can speak directly to recruiters, ask questions, and discover roles that match your skills and interests: Launchpad Live – Plymouth’s biggest careers fair, bringing together dozens of local employers from sectors including defence, healthcare, engineering, creative services and more. These events help people of all ages explore opportunities and meet employers in person. Health and Social Care Careers Showcase – focuses on opportunities in one of the city’s key sectors, with local providers and employers available to talk about jobs, training and career development. Plymouth Jobs Fairs – regular recruiting events where you can meet a range of employers, ask questions face‑to‑face, and sometimes take part in on‑the‑day interviews. These events are great ways to build your network, understand what employers are looking for, and discover roles you might not find online. Local employers and recruitment support Many local organisations recruit regularly in Plymouth, including (but not limited to): Large employers in advanced engineering, marine and defence: o   https://jobs.babcockinternational.com/search/?redirect=true o   http://www.mypmg.co.uk/members.aspx o   https://plymouthmakes.co.uk/  o   https://plymouthsciencepark.com/jobs/ Healthcare providers and NHS services o   https://www.livewellsouthwest.co.uk/careers/jobs/ o   Apply on NHS Jobs Construction and built environment firms o   Career Opportunities | Building Plymouth o   GreenJobs, Environmental Jobs and Renewable Energy Jobs in the UK Retail, hospitality and tourism businesses o   Welcoming Plymouth o   Tourism and Leisure | Invest Plymouth Creative and digital companies o   https://deltservices.com/careers/current-vacancies/ o   Work with us | Theatre Royal Plymouth o   Working Here | Arts University Plymouth Public services and local government teams o   Civil Service job search - Civil Service Jobs - GOV.UK o   Careers within Devon & Cornwall Police | Devon & Cornwall Police o   Vacancies | Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service o   DevonJobs Homepage o   Jobs, careers and training | PLYMOUTH.GOV.UK Education o   Jobs at the University of Plymouth - University of Plymouth o   Work for us - City College Plymouth o   Explore Education Jobs in Plymouth, Devon, and Cornwall with Schools' Post Skills Launchpad Plymouth and partner organisations also offer support to connect you with training providers, employers and recruitment opportunities, helping you build the skills employers need and get ready for work.

There are job sites which focus on particular sectors where you can search for specific jobs, register online for alerts about jobs that you may be interested in applying for and some give you the option to upload your CV to be matched. Banking/Finance www.cityjobs.com www.efinancialcareers.co.uk www.exec-appointments.com www.lloyd-barnes.co.uk Broadcasting/Media www.grapevinejobs.com http://4talent.channel4.com Catering/Hospitality www.caterer.com www.leisurejobs.com https://careerscope.uk.net/ Civil Service https://www.civilservicejobs.service.gov.uk/csr/index.cgi Construction Construction Talent Retention Scheme - if you are a construction worker you are encouraged to sign up which will aim to match you with vacancies www.careersinconstruction.com www.careerstructure.com www.constructor.co.uk www.theconstructionindex.co.uk/construction-jobs Education Work in before and after school clubs - Early Years Careers Search for a job training others - Teach in further education - Department for Education Schools' Post • Education Recruitment in Plymouth, Devon & Cornwall Education Job Search | Find Teaching, Leadership & School Support Jobs Engineering www.jobs.theengineer.co.uk Environmental/Geoscience www.earthworks-jobs.com www.rareconservation.org Medical/Healthcare www.carehome.co.uk/jobs/ www.healthjobsuk.com www.jobs.nhs.uk www.jobs.proudtocaredevon.org.uk IT/Telecommunications BT Group Careers Home - TechSheCan Legal www.totallylegal.com Personnel/HR www.jobs.personneltoday.com www.peoplemanagement.co.uk Public Relations www.pr4a.com Retail www.inretail.co.uk

Looking for your first graduate role, internship or placement? Your university careers service is one of the best places to start. They offer guidance on CVs, applications, interviews, networking, and work experience, as well as events and employer contacts to help you stand out. Careers services in Plymouth: University of Plymouth Careers Service – plymouth.ac.uk/services/careers Arts University Plymouth – Careers & Enterprise – aup.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/careers-enterprise Plymouth Marjon University – Marjon Futures Careers – marjon.ac.uk/marjon-futures Tips for success: Use your university careers portal for local job links and sector guidance. Attend career fairs and employer events. Keep your LinkedIn profile up to date and reach out to employers directly. Treat internships as opportunities to gain experience and build your professional network. Engaging with your careers service will help you plan your next steps, gain confidence, and secure the right role. If you have recently graduated, you can find opportunities on these graduate specific job sites. Grad South West Prospects Milk Round Civil Service Fast Stream

Making a good first impression goes beyond your CV and interview your online presence matters too. Employers often check social media profiles to understand who you are, so it’s important to make sure your accounts reflect your professional image. Optimise your LinkedIn profile Ensure your experience, skills and roles are accurate. Use clear, professional language and ask for recommendations or endorsements. A strong LinkedIn profile can reassure employers about your professionalism, reducing the need for them to check other social media accounts. Review photos and privacy settings Remove or hide any unprofessional or revealing images. Use privacy settings to control who sees your posts. Keep professional and personal content separate whenever possible. Key takeaway: Even if employers don’t actively check your social media, what you post online shapes your professional reputation. A strong, professional online presence can complement your CV and help you stand out.

Whether you’re transitioning from the Armed Forces, a veteran, or a military spouse, Skills Launchpad Plymouth can help you explore civilian careers, build skills, and connect with local employers. For job opportunities and guidance, you may find these sites useful: Career Transition Partnership (CTP) – official support for service leavers moving into civilian work. https://www.ctp.org.uk/ Armed Forces Careers Services – advice and job listings for those leaving service. https://www.army.mod.uk/careers/ Forces Families Jobs – vacancies suitable for military spouses and partners. https://www.forcesfamiliesjobs.co.uk/ Royal British Legion – Employment Support – guidance and support for veterans. https://www.britishlegion.org.uk/get-support/employment-support Recruit for Spouses - RFS: Stronger Families. Stronger Workforce. Stronger Defence. Forces Employment Charity - Forces Employment Charity Civvy Jobs - https://civvyjobs.com/ Veterans Jobs Boards -About us - Veterans Job Board UK Troopr - Finding Civilian Jobs After the Military The Poppy Factory - Employment support for ex-Forces job seekers - The Poppy Factory Veteran UK: Veteran UK | Bristol | Manchester | Cheltenham | London RBVA - Home - Royal British Veterans Enterprise (RBVE) Find out more about Armed Forces support in Plymouth - Armed Forces | Adult Hub | Skills Launchpad Plymouth

How to find job vacancies https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/get-a-job/advertised-job-vacancies How to get a job through networking https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/get-a-job/networking

Make sure you feel ready to get back out there – check out the support available if you are feeling anxious, confused, lost or overwhelmed Make an informed choice locally. Find out about Plymouth’s current employment picture and learn about our industry sectors which are growing fast creating new job opportunities now and in the future Too much choice out there? You can always learn more about your career options Get your own free impartial 1-1 Careers and Skills Plan with National Careers Service Consider earning while you learn through an apprenticeship Develop yourself through further study and training opportunities Get work ready skills to help for job hunting including CV writing, applying for jobs and preparing for interviews. Polish up your Maths, English and digital skills Gain work experience to help build your confidence and new skills for applying for jobs Consider becoming a volunteer to gain valuable new skills and experience Access help for starting your own business and work for yourself