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A jobseeker’s guide to getting the most from your CPD

19 Sep, 2025

Continuous Professional Development (CPD) isn’t just for people already in work – it’s one of the most powerful tools you can use while job hunting. Keeping your skills fresh, your knowledge up to date, and showing potential employers that you are proactive about learning will set you apart in a competitive market. Here’s how to make CPD work for you as a jobseeker: Frequently asked questions Do I need to study specific topics?...

What makes good CPD?

27 Jun, 2025

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) isn’t just a tick-box exercise – when it’s done well, it can be transformative. So what actually makes CPD effective, engaging, and worth your time? CABE’s CPD assessor panel advises on what makes good CPD. 1. Make it relevant to your role Great CPD connects directly to your current work or career aspirations. It addresses the challenges you face and builds the skills you need – whether...

“To whom it may concern” and other cover letter mistakes

21 Feb, 2025

We all know that we should tailor our applications to the individual jobs we apply for. This means not sending the same blanket CV and cover letter to every job posting. As the cover letter is the first piece of information about you the recruiter will see, you need to give the right impression. With many applications to sift through, it ’ s critical that yours stands out. A well written cover letter shows potential employers that you’ve...

Rescheduling a job interview

05 Feb, 2025

While receiving an interview offer can be exciting, being forced to reschedule can be daunting for many job-seekers. While some view it as a misstep, if handled professionally with a clear explanation, it’s often understood by employers. Preparation and good communication are key. Here’s how to reschedule your interview effectively. Contact the interviewer/employer ASAP As soon as you know you need to reschedule, contact the employer...

How to explain your CV career gap to a potential employer

30 Jan, 2025

There’s nothing wrong with taking take a career break for various reasons, but it’s important to know how to discuss these issues when dealing with potential employers in job interviews. Depending on the length of your break, the interviewer may inquire about the reasons behind it. Career gaps can occur for various reasons, such as illness, redundancy, parenthood, or caregiving, but whatever your reason, it’s wise to prepare your...

What questions should you ask during an interview?

18 Oct, 2024

Engineering is a realm where innovation meets real-world challenges, where problem-solving prowess is as essential as technical proficiency. When embarking on a new journey within a company’s engineering team, it’s imperative to delve deep into the projects and challenges awaiting you. An interview isn’t just an opportunity for the company to evaluate you—it’s equally a chance for you to assess whether the company’s engineering ethos aligns...

How to ensure you work for an ethical employer

19 Sep, 2024

As the demand for engineering talent continues to grow, many employees are focused on ensuring their current firm or potential employer prioritises integrity, transparency, and social responsibility. In this post, we’ll explore strategies to ensure you’re working for an ethical employer. Research company values Before accepting a job offer, take the time to thoroughly research the company’s mission, vision, and values. Companies with a...

How to impress in your first few weeks at a new job

19 Jul, 2024

Starting a new engineering job is an exciting and challenging time. The first few weeks are crucial for setting the tone of your tenure and making a positive impression on your colleagues and supervisors. Here are some key strategies to help you hit the ground running and stand out from day one. Understand the company culture Every company has its unique culture and understanding it is essential for your success. Take time to observe...

Navigating the "Tell me about yourself" Question in Building Engineering Interviews

15 Mar, 2024

The interview process for building engineers can be intimidating, particularly when trying to anticipate every question posed. However, one inquiry often takes candidates by surprise. Simple, well-worn, and notably vague, "Tell me about yourself" presents candidates with a crucial opportunity to make a strong initial impression or falter from the start. Crafting a compelling response requires strategy and self-awareness. First and...

How to help your CV stand out to potential employers

15 Nov, 2023

A CV is the first impression you give to your potential next employer. It needs to be clear, concise and honest, and getting these key aspects into your CV are essential to your application process. The built environment still remains as one of the most in-demand sectors in the United Kingdom, meaning there is lots of opportunities for potential roles for you as an employee, and lots of employers to impress with your CV. An effective...

Can ChatGPT help me apply for an engineering role?

23 Aug, 2023

With the press stuffed full of stories about ChatGPT, it seems the new artificial intelligence tool can do just about anything short of washing your clothes. But can it help you land the perfect building engineer job? Read on to find out. ChatGPT was developed by OpenAI, an artificial intelligence research organisation. Its team designed and trained the model using a combination of techniques including deep learning, natural language...

Time to tidy: cleaning up your social media for potential employers

29 Mar, 2023

Why you should polish up your social media accounts when applying for building engineer jobs, as employers may check them in the screening process. It seems that a well-written CV and covering letter is not enough to earn a new position these days, and if your social presence online contains anything inappropriate it could hinder your chances of getting the role. A study by CareerBuilder found that seven in 10 employers have used...

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