Your CV
Your CV should be:-
- concise
- easy to read
- tailored to the role you have applied for
Ideally your CV should fit on one sheet of paper.
It sounds obvious but make sure that you have included your
contact details and that telephone numbers and email address are
correct.
When completing your career history start with your most recent
or present job and end with the first. Show starting and finishing
years - not necessarily the months. Show your job title, the
company name and location - not necessarily the full address.
Application Forms
If asked to complete an application form read through it before
starting to fill it in.
Complete all parts of the form clearly, use an additional sheet
of paper if you run out of space or include a copy of your CV for
further information.
Successful Interviews
Follow the steps below to help you perform well at
interview:-
1. Do your research
Find out as much as you can about the interview, the job and the
company.
The Interview:
Make sure you know:
- how to get there
- who will interview you
- what format the interview will take (group, one to one, tests,
presentations).
The Job:
Read through any documentation you have been sent, especially
copies of the job description and the person specification, if
there is one, will help you to establish:
- the duties of the role and who will be your manager
- the employer's expectations of the successful candidate
- the conditions of employment and location of work.
The Company:
Discover as much as you can about:
- history, ownership and products
- size, structure and location of sites
- stability and financial strength
- who the competitors are
2. Your appearance
First impressions count. An impression is made before you
respond to any questions. Ensure that your appearance is
professional and smart:
- appropriate clothes are essential
- hair, nails and shoes, must not be forgotten
- avoid too much perfume or after-shave
3. At the interview
Before the interview begins, there are certain steps to take
which will help you succeed:
- arrive at your interview with time to enable you to relax a
little beforehand
- when meeting the interviewer, smile and use good eye
contact
- use good body language (sit upright and lean slightly forward)
to convey your interest and alertness
- ensure that your mobile if off or on silent - do not answer it
if it rings
4. Answering questions
Interview questions are designed to find out about you and your
suitability for the role. When replying to questions you
should:
- keep to the point
- structure your answer so that it is logical and easily
understood
- maintain good, but not excessive, eye contact
- speak with confidence and ensure you can be heard clearly
- be honest about your experience and skills
5. Prepare your own questions
Prepare some questions of your own in advance, relating to the
job or the company. Your questions should not relate exclusively to
money or conditions of employment.
6. Deal positively with the closing moments of the
interview
Last impressions are important. Thank the interviewer for their
time, re-affirm your interest in the position and that you look
forward to hearing from them.