The most and least applied for jobs in Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington

Whether you’re actively looking for a new job or you’re just keeping your eye on the market, it’s always good to know what your competition looks like.

That’s why we’re taking a look at the most popular jobs on SEEK as well as the roles with the least competition. Select from the menu below to reveal the top 20 least and most applied for jobs in Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington. 

Applying for the same job as everyone else?  

If your role is one of the most applied for on SEEK and you’re yet to secure a job, don’t assume it’s a reflection on you personally. When competition is extremely high, it can be much harder to stand out. So, if you’re not hearing back from any of your applications, here’s our top advice on how you can adapt your strategy for a competitive environment:

• Make sure you’re nailing the basics
  Your first step should always be to ensure that the applications you’re sending are impressive. Get someone you know to proofread your cover letter and resume, ensure you’re only applying for jobs where you meet the selection criteria and always highlight your skills and experience as they relate to the job.

• Explore new ways to stand out
  Once you’ve got the basics right, you can focus on finding ways to capture the attention of a potential employer. Craft a personal summary that will really sell why you’re a good fit, request an informational interview to learn more about the business or think about what else you could incorporate into your application to highlight why you’re the right person for the job.

• Be proactive
  Leverage your network of family, colleagues and friends to find potential opportunities. You can even visit or call businesses who might not currently be advertising to express your interest in working for them.

• Consider transferable skills
  It may also be that competition is just too hot for the job you’re currently looking at and may be time to consider other roles you can apply your skills to. If you’re currently a personal trainer, for example, you might make a great team leader or perhaps a real estate agent moving into a sales role in a completely new industry.

Competition currently low in your industry?

Whether it’s the job you’re currently in or one you’re hoping to move into, if you’ve spotted a role on the top 20 least applied for list, now could be the perfect time to consider making a career move or at least to begin training up.

For roles where there are fewer applications, the power balance often shifts to be in favour of the job seeker. Some of the top benefits of considering roles with low competition include:

• The power of your transferable skills
  When there are fewer competitors for roles, you may have the opportunity to really play up the skills and experience you have gained in related roles as exact role experience may not always be essential.

• Negotiation power
  Employers also tend to be more accommodating when it comes to ensuring they’re going to to get the right person for their job. This can often give potential employees more power at the negotiating table. Whether that be extra training, more money or increased flexibility.

• Increased job security  
  Those who work in roles where there are fewer people who share the same skill set are often able to enjoy an increased sense of security in their job. Businesses understand the value of retaining employees with in-demand skills.

Want to know more about job application trends? Explore the top 10 least and most applied for jobs in New Zealand and learn more about what’s driving the trend.

Source: SEEK Employment Report 2018 vs 2017