Applying for a job can be a daunting experience, but it doesn’t have to be. Follow our hints and tips and let us see you shine.
CV advice
- concise
- easy to read
- tailored to the role you have applied for
- Ideally fitted 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 form help
If you are 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.
Interview tips
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, to 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.