get your cv working for you a good cv is the first important step on the road to success. it should give your future employer a good idea of your capabilities and make him/her want to find out more about you. getting called for an interview means your cv has done its job – so here are a few things to bear in mind to make sure you get that phone call: - always print your cv on standard white a4 paper
- list your most recent job first and work backwards, the same applies to education and work experience
- include details of your responsibilities and what your role involved
- always send a cover letter, tailored to the specific job you’re applying for
- keep your language simple, professional and business like
- be honest and truthful about your experience and achievements – don’t make any claims you can’t back up
- briefly state your hobbies and interests – 2 or 3 lines is plenty
- get other people to proof read your CV and make sure there are no spelling mistakes or other grammatical errors
dress for success at the Interview so, you’ve impressed your future employer with your cv and have been called for an interview. now you have an opportunity to really sell yourself, let your personality shine through and leave your interviewer in no doubt as to who should get the job. make sure you get off to a good start by looking the part. project an image of success and the chances are you’ll be succesful. here are a few things to bear in mind when dressing for your interview - your overall look should be polished and professional
- leaving it until the last minute to decide what to wear can lead to panic – choose your outfit a couple of days beforehand
- get the opinion of someone who works in a similar role as the one you’re applying for
- skirts or trousers should be well cut and should be a comfortable fit
- if you’re wearing a dress make sure it’s smart and not too low cut
- shoes should be in good condition, clean and well polished. medium heels are good, killer stilettoes not so good!
- keep hosiery fairly understated – flesh coloured or plain opaque black
clinching the deal at your interview first impressions really do last. making a good impression as soon as you walk in the door will set the tone for the rest of your interview. immediate eye contact and a good firm handshake will tell your interviewer that you’re a confident, capable person and will send out a positive signal. show enthusiasm from the outset and you’re half way there! here are a few of our top tips for interviews: - don’t be late and remember the name of the person you’re meeting with
- find out as much as you can about the company and try to anticipate the questions you’ll be asked
- speak calmly and clearly and answer all questions as fully as you can
- be confident, not arrogant
- be honest about your weaknesses but show a willingness to learn
- avoid jargon
- don’t talk about money until the subject is brought up by your interviewer
- look and sound interested and have some questions of your own prepared for the end of the interview
the following are common interview questions: - what did you find most difficult about your last role?
- why are you leaving your current job?
- what are your strengths and what are your weaknesses?
- how do you organise your time?
- give an exmaple of how you have overcome a recent problem?
- how do you work under pressure?
- what kind of people do you find it most difficult to work with?
- do you prefer to work alone or in a group?
having some questions of your own prepared will show initiative and that you’re a bright enthusiastic individual; just the kind of person any employer would like to work with. the following questions will give you an idea of the things you can ask: - how has the company grown/developed over the past few years?
- who are the company’s main competitors?
- if I was offered the position what sort of training would be offered?
- who will be my main point of contact on a daily basis?
- how will my performance be measured in the position?
- if I prove myself in the role are there opportunities for progression?
- what computer system does the company use?
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