Job-seeking –
- Try to follow up your job application where possible. Use a specific person’s email address if you have it or (even better) their phone number to confirm that they have received your application. Be polite, NOT pushy and do not email/call constantly.
- If you’re asked to send a CV, do so. So many people see jobs advertised on LinkedIn requesting that they email their CV/click on a link but instead request that they ‘Check out my profile’. Recruiters and HR specialists are very busy and do not have the time to search everyone’s LinkedIn profile.
- Tailor your CV to each job for which you apply. It pays to go through the job specification and, if you have the relevant experience or qualifications, ensure that it is listed in your CV. If you have items in your CV which are completely irrelevant and taking lots of page space, remove them! If necessary, simply put ‘more information available on request’.
- Be realistic when applying for jobs. Even if it is your dream role but if you know you’re not suitable – don’t waste the recruiters’ time; it’ll deter them from considering you for jobs you could be perfect for.
- If you are registering with an agency, try to arrange a face-to-face meeting if possible. This will show your commitment and the recruitment consultant will be much better able to represent you if they have actually met you. If a face-to-face meeting is not possible, a telephone interview can still be a good chance to demonstrate your ability to articulate yourself.
- Ask questions. If you need clarification about an aspect of the job or if you have any questions contact the recruiter or employer and ask. It shows interest and that you care about the role and whether it genuinely is suitable for you. Too many people are applying for just any job so to highlight that you are being selective makes you look professional.
- Network! You never know if one of your friends, family, ex-colleagues, friends-of-a-friend etc. may know someone who works at the place to which you are applying. Talking about your job application might unearth a secret weapon that can give you the edge in applying; you never know if the Line Manager of your dream job is closer than you think!
Interviews –
- Do your research about the company. Investigate the organisation which you are hoping to join; any true professional would to ensure that it is definitely a company of which you wish to be part. It is likely that you will be asked your opinion on an aspect of the business and you need to be prepared to answer with your own informed opinion.
- Walk confidently, gain eye contact from the onset and introduce yourself by your full name and a firm handshake.
- Ensure that the client has your CV and if not, make sure you have one with you to present to them.
- If you can research who is going to be conducting your interview, try to do so. This can mean viewing their profile on the company website or LinkedIn. It’s good to know who you will be facing and you never know if you both attended the same University, clubs or have connections in common. Do not stalk your contact.
- Answer all questions honestly and if necessary ask for clarification if you are not sure about the question. No one is trying to trick you so it is better to be sure what you are expected to respond with rather than guessing.
- Prepare questions to ask the client to show interest and research. Questions should pertain to the company i.e. “Does the business have a plan to manage the expected slowdown in investment? Also enquire about your potential involvement such as “Do you have an in-house training programme?”
- At the conclusion of the interview ask when you can expect some feedback and reiterate your interest in the company and the role. You can also ask what the next step is (i.e. second interview).
