What employers are looking for…
- The right candidate for the role - we need to employ someone who will fit into our organisation and who has the skills we are looking for
- Potential – we understand that you may not have all the required skills just now. We look for people who have the potential to learn new things and develop new skills.
- An applicant that stands out – you need to spend time on your application form / CV and you need to spend time preparing for your interview. You want to stand out from other applicants for all the right reasons!
CVs and Application Forms usually cover …
- Personal details – your address, email account, phone number – make sure these are correct
- Education – school / college, grades achieved
- Work Experience – where did you work, how long did you work there, what did you do there, i.e. duties and tasks
- Skills – language skills, IT skills, driving license etc
- Interests – clubs and societies, sports commitments…
- Reference – ask before you put someone’s name down as a reference - and tell them about the kind of jobs you are applying for, as this will help them write your reference
A good Application Form …
- Follow instructions on the form
- Meet closing deadlines – think of the impression you make with a late application
- On – line/ Off – line – most organisations have on-line applications nowadays so check before you apply
- Examples should demonstrate skills – think of good examples that will demonstrate your skills clearly
- Check your spelling & grammar
- Check all your personal details are correct – email / phone etc
- Reference (as before)
- Practice before you do the real form
- Take a copy before you send ii off – this will help you in your interview preparation
A good CV will be …
- Accompanied by a good cover letter – this should not duplicate the details in your CV
- Relevant to the job – do your skills and experience match the job description?
- Structured in a professional way
- Maximum 2 pages long – if it is too long people won’t take the time to read it
- A true reflection of you and your skills – don’t exaggerate the truth
- Concise and not too ‘ wordy ‘
- Get someone to read through your CV before you send it off
What is an interview?
- A conversation with a purpose
- Questions - investigating if you have the right skills for the job
- Two way process –are you the right candidate for the job / is this the right job for you?
- A chance for you to ask some questions – so make sure you prepare some in advance
Interview tips – Do’s
- Be prepared – do your research
- Know where to go and who to ask for - take your confirmation letter or email with you
- Arrive on time – or a little early
- Wear smart clothes – a suit is always a safe option
- Firm hand shake – make a good first impression
- Watch your posture
- Smile – it makes you feel happier and more confident
- Relax – take a deep breath and try not to get too nervous
- Answer the questions you are asked – talk to the point
- Describe what YOU did – try not to talk about ‘we’ when describing team examples
- Sell yourself! – this is your chance to impress the employer
Interview tips – Don’ts
- Go to the wrong office!
- Be late – call if you are delayed
- Fidget in seat
- Be too laid back
- Ramble / Waffle
- Mumble
- Tell lies
- Be Vague
- Be too arrogant
- Be negative
- Be dismissive of other people
- Argue with the interviewer!
Handy Hints
Be Prepared!
- RESEARCH - the job, the company, the skills required
- Website
- Brochures
- Talk to employees
- Careers fairs / presentations
Good Luck with all your future interviews!
PricewaterhouseCoopers Recruitment Team
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