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How to get a job in motorsport – five top tips to get into F1 and more

Motorsport is a competitive world and there are many job seekers who would love to start a career in this industry

If you have all the skills, experience and stamina to join the motorsport world, do you know where to start your job hunt? With the help of MotorsportJobs.com, here are the five best ways to find a job in motorsport.

1) Follow recruiters' websites and social media channels

Racing teams usually have a large fan base and rely on their strong brand to attract a wide audience to their websites and social media profiles. If you are hoping to join them, then you should regularly check their websites, LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter channels because that is where they will advertise their vacancies first.

"98% of our recruitment is done in-house via our website and social media channels," says John Steele, M-Sport Commercial Director. "There is no shortage of graduate and apprentice applications as these are usually self-generated by our sport profile. I would advise any job seekers interested in joining M-Sport to keep an eye on our website and social media channels."

2) Send your CV to specialised recruitment agencies

To increase their chance of sourcing the best possible match for their vacancies, many motorsport companies are recruiting through specialised agencies. These include Jonathan Lee Recruitment, Alexander Associates, Anderson Gothard Moroz, and the all new MotorsportJobs.com, connecting job seekers directly with employers.

By registering with these agencies and online platforms, you are giving your CV the best chance to be found by recruiters if a suitable job comes up for you.

Paul Branton, Business Development Manager at Jonathan Lee Recruitment explains: "There is not a one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to finding a job in motorsport, however working with an expert recruitment consultant that really understands the specific needs of each individual and company can offer a significant advantage.

"A technical consultant will also be able to offer clear and realistic market insight and intelligence, whilst having networks and long-standing relationships with many of the hiring managers within industry. It means that even when there is no advertised vacancy, a recruitment consultancy knows the exact skills and experience the client would require within the candidate market, hence providing a proactive approach to the recruitment process."

3) Attend a motorsport jobs fair

The Motorsport Industry Association has organised five jobs fairs specifically dedicated to the motorsport and automotive industries since March 2016. Taking place twice a year to match the graduate and apprentices' recruitment seasons, these events are free to attend for job seekers and give you an opportunity to engage face-to-face with recruiters ranging from car manufacturers, racing teams and small SMEs from the supply chain. It is also a great way to understand the companies' culture and meet employers you would have not considered otherwise.

"The jobs fairs are a great opportunity for jobs seekers to engage with companies and make valuable contacts to help their future career," says Chris Aylett, MIA chief executive. "Motorsport companies are looking for talented, passionate and focused people, and there is no better way for job seekers to demonstrate their enthusiasm than going to the Fairs and meeting recruiters face to face.

"There are many immediate vacancies to be filled on the day and it is not only about engineering. A wide range of jobs are being offered at the Jobs Fairs, including roles in design, events, business development, marketing and sales too."

The next Motorsport & Automotive Jobs Fair will take place at Autosport International on Friday 12 January 2018. You can register for your free ticket on Eventbrite.

4) Activate your network

Have you seen posts on LinkedIn from people reaching out to their networks to find jobs? It doesn't work every time but it works better if you have the right connections in your network. Use any chance you get - through your job, university alumni network, work placements - to build your professional network and try to keep in touch with the people you meet.

LinkedIn is a good way to build your network and even have your skills endorsed by former colleagues or customers. Also, a Christmas card doesn't cost much but it can go a long way if it helps keeping you in mind of people for arising opportunities in their company.

5) Get volunteering!

Motorsport is an industry that thrives on speed, whether that's improving lap times on-track or the rapid design and delivery of the latest innovations in time for the next race. Because of its fast-paced nature, the majority of motorsport organisations place a huge amount of value on employing people with practical experience, not just theoretical knowledge.

Therefore, whether through part-time, holiday, paid or volunteer work, gaining direct 'real world' experience will really help you stand out from the crowd. Begin by updating your CV and covering letter, then circulating it to a carefully selected group of organisations within the area of motorsport you hope to work in. Gain as much 'hands on' experience as possible and you will then be in the perfect position to demonstrate at your next job interview that you can hit the ground running!

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