When looking for a job you often need to come up with more creative and smarter ways to stand out from the competition. So what is it that some jobseekers do that they often seem to find a new job faster than others?
Oftentimes, it is one of these 10 things that make your job search smarter:
1. Surf job boards for more than just open positions.
Job boards can be "goldmines" for research. You might see companies you didn't know before and you might see the same requirements for the job you want over and over again -- this indicates a standard, so incorporate these items into your pitch and cover letters.
2. Realise a potential job lead could be anywhere.
Smart job seekers aren't afraid to mention occupational aspirations to their book club, their parents' friends or their dentist. (One never knows whose golf partner might be the ticket to getting a foot in the door.) Also, when sending e-mails you can easily attach your CV to every correspondence by adding a link to your LinkedIn public profile in your e-mail signature. Even friends who think they know you may click through to your profile, learn more about you and perhaps think of you for a job that they know of.
3. Put adequate time and effort into your applications.
Spend time to make your CV the best possible written advertisement of you. Analyse the job requirements against your own skills and abilities, and always customise your cover letter for each application. All correspondence should be free of errors and typos. And before sending off the application packet, look at the job posting one last time to ensure all desired material is included.
4. Make your value known quickly.
An employer gives each CV about a three-second window of time before he decides to either 'delete' or read further. A smart applicant answers the "What can you do for me?" question right off the bat with a summary of strongest accomplishments at the top of the CV.
5. Do your homework.
It seems logical to smart applicants to know something about potential employers. From searching a company to checking out its financial statements, they learn what they can -- and use the info to enhance their correspondence.
6. Know that employers do their homework, too.
"According to [a 2010] Coremetrics [study], 75 percent of companies require recruiters to research job applicants online, so you'll want to be sure you know what they'll find," states Sherrie Madia, co-author of "The Online Job Search Survival Guide." Besides thinking twice about what you choose to post, she suggests doing an online search on your name. If you find something undesirable, try to have it removed.
7. Look and act like a professional.
Simple but effective: A smart applicant arrives on time, dresses appropriately, both talks and listens, displays confidence and minds his manners.
8. Show that you want this job.
Smart job seekers are not "tyre kickers." They focus on the needs of the employer and demonstrate how they are perfect for this particular position. Show enthusiasm during the job interview and always make certain that the company you're interviewing with feels as if it is your first choice, no matter what other companies are involved in your job search.
9. Don't get ahead of yourself.
As much as you may be dying to know about promotions, raises and vacation time, being a smart candidate you don't jump the gun and tackle these issues during the first interview. Rather focus on landing the position, then on whether the package is suitable.
10. Show your interest in the job, follow up and thank.
At the end of the interview, sum up your strengths, tell the interviewer that you are excited about the position and say, 'I would really like to contribute to this company. I am hoping you will select me.' Then, a smart interviewee keeps his name in the game with a follow-up note reiterating interest and offering thanks. A great last impression can seal the deal!
Friday 28 October 2011
Thursday 20 October 2011
What not to put on your CV
Creating a winning CV is a feat of strategy involving focus, wording, design and content selection. To achieve a career marketing document that wins interviews, all areas of the strategy must be spot-on and consciously used in the most effective manner. One of the most common mistakes job candidates make when writing their CVs is not paying attention to strategy and word selection.
There are actually words that can have a detrimental impact on the effectiveness of the CV. When most job candidates write them, they don't consider word choice because they are primarily worried about getting down the basic information. Wording is critical and the wrong one can sabotage your CV.
The average agent and/or hiring manager sees hundreds of CVs from qualified candidates. CVs begin to look and sound the same to them. Here are some words and phrases to avoid:
Soft-skill descriptions
Job seekers feel they need to communicate their soft-skills to the employer because they believe they are the traits that make them unique, but this couldn't be further from the truth. Soft-skills are so common that recruiters pay no attention to them.
Phrases to avoid or severely limit:
- Excellent communication skills
- Strong work ethic
- Personable presenter
- Detail-oriented
Do not bore the reader to tears with these trite, overused and tired phrases. After all, no one will write that he/she takes long lunches, is lazy and argues a lot with peers. Hence, it is much more effective to write a description that is action-based and demonstrates these abilities rather than just laying claim to them. For example, rather than just stating you are an "excellent presenter," you could say "Developed and presented 50+ multi-media presentations to prospects resulting in 35 new accounts, totalling £300,000 in new revenues."
Age, health, appearance
Many seasoned job seekers are facing that scary time warp known as pre-retirement and fear age discrimination. They feel they can counter this perceived hurdle by giving a description of their age or health. But this can be death to a CV.
Phrases to avoid:
- Youthful
- Athletic
- Fit
- Healthy
- Mature
Additionally, unless specifically requested, there is no need to include personal details such as date of birth, marital status or whether you have children. This information is typically used to exclude candidates from consideration in the hiring process rather than include them. Unless the employer specifically asks, keep this information confidential.
Passive voice
Many people write in the passive voice because that is how we've been taught "formally" in school composition. The problem with the passive voice, however, is that it is just that passive! A CV needs to have punch and sparkle and communicate an active, aggressive candidate. Passive does not accomplish that.
Indicators of the passive voice:
- Responsible for
- Duties included
- Served as
- Actions encompassed
Rather than saying "Responsible for management of three direct reports" change it up to "Managed 3 direct reports." It is a shorter, more direct mode of writing and adds impact to the way the CV reads. On the flip side, whilst action verbs are great, don't overdo it.
I have actually seen:
- Smashed numbers through the roof'
- 'Electrified sales team to produce...'
- 'Pushed close rate by 10 per cent'
Take your time
A CV is a marketing document for your career just as a brochure is a marketing document for a product or service. Companies put careful thought and consideration into each and every word that goes into marketing copy and you should do the same in your CV. These words stand in your place with the employer and need to showcase you in a powerful way. In a perfect world, these things would not matter, but in the reality of job search today, they matter a great deal. Be wise - stop and give some thought to the words you choose.
There are actually words that can have a detrimental impact on the effectiveness of the CV. When most job candidates write them, they don't consider word choice because they are primarily worried about getting down the basic information. Wording is critical and the wrong one can sabotage your CV.
The average agent and/or hiring manager sees hundreds of CVs from qualified candidates. CVs begin to look and sound the same to them. Here are some words and phrases to avoid:
Soft-skill descriptions
Job seekers feel they need to communicate their soft-skills to the employer because they believe they are the traits that make them unique, but this couldn't be further from the truth. Soft-skills are so common that recruiters pay no attention to them.
Phrases to avoid or severely limit:
- Excellent communication skills
- Strong work ethic
- Personable presenter
- Detail-oriented
Do not bore the reader to tears with these trite, overused and tired phrases. After all, no one will write that he/she takes long lunches, is lazy and argues a lot with peers. Hence, it is much more effective to write a description that is action-based and demonstrates these abilities rather than just laying claim to them. For example, rather than just stating you are an "excellent presenter," you could say "Developed and presented 50+ multi-media presentations to prospects resulting in 35 new accounts, totalling £300,000 in new revenues."
Age, health, appearance
Many seasoned job seekers are facing that scary time warp known as pre-retirement and fear age discrimination. They feel they can counter this perceived hurdle by giving a description of their age or health. But this can be death to a CV.
Phrases to avoid:
- Youthful
- Athletic
- Fit
- Healthy
- Mature
Additionally, unless specifically requested, there is no need to include personal details such as date of birth, marital status or whether you have children. This information is typically used to exclude candidates from consideration in the hiring process rather than include them. Unless the employer specifically asks, keep this information confidential.
Passive voice
Many people write in the passive voice because that is how we've been taught "formally" in school composition. The problem with the passive voice, however, is that it is just that passive! A CV needs to have punch and sparkle and communicate an active, aggressive candidate. Passive does not accomplish that.
Indicators of the passive voice:
- Responsible for
- Duties included
- Served as
- Actions encompassed
Rather than saying "Responsible for management of three direct reports" change it up to "Managed 3 direct reports." It is a shorter, more direct mode of writing and adds impact to the way the CV reads. On the flip side, whilst action verbs are great, don't overdo it.
I have actually seen:
- Smashed numbers through the roof'
- 'Electrified sales team to produce...'
- 'Pushed close rate by 10 per cent'
Take your time
A CV is a marketing document for your career just as a brochure is a marketing document for a product or service. Companies put careful thought and consideration into each and every word that goes into marketing copy and you should do the same in your CV. These words stand in your place with the employer and need to showcase you in a powerful way. In a perfect world, these things would not matter, but in the reality of job search today, they matter a great deal. Be wise - stop and give some thought to the words you choose.
What not to do when searching for the next job!
It's true, we're in tough times and plenty of reasons out of your control can keep you from getting hired. But that's just one more reason to do everything within your power to be the best job seeker you can.
With that in mind, look over the following ways you might be unknowingly sabotaging your job search:
Don't talk about your job search
Most people aren't keen on being unemployed, and if you were laid off it's understandable that you don't want to spend all your time talking about it. But you need to network; it's one of the most effective ways to find a job. A friend of a friend of a friend often gets you the interview that lands you the job -- but that won't happen if no one knows you're looking for new career opportunities.
Looking for the perfect job
Although you want to conduct a focused job search, you need to keep an open mind. With any luck, you'll land the perfect gig, but sometimes you have to take a job that possesses most of the qualities you want -- not all of them. If the pay is right and the requirements are in line with your experience, then you might have to overlook the fact that you will have a longer commute than you had planned.
Burning bridges
We love the scenes in movies where the disgruntled employee finally tells off the boss and storms out of the office, only to live a happy, fulfilling life. In real life, these idols are probably unemployed because they don't have good references, and no employer wants to hire someone with a tarnished reputation.
Not keeping track of your applications
Because a job hunt can be lengthy, you should have a running list of where you've applied and whether or not you've heard back. Although you don't think you'll forget where you applied, after a dozen applications your memory can get fuzzy. Sending multiple applications to the same employer says, "I'm either disorganised or I'm just sending out bulk applications."
A generic cover letter
The only thing worse than no cover letter is one that could be sent to any anonymous employer. Starting with "To Whom It May Concern" and filling the page with phrases like "hard working" will signal the reader that you're blindly sending out applications to every job opening you see. Hiring managers are looking for someone who fits their needs, and their needs are different than another employer's. Don't treat them the same.
Typos
If you received a wedding invitation full of misspelled words and poor punctuation, you'd probably wonder why these two people didn't take the time to proofread the page. After all, it's an important event and a lot of people will be reading it. Employers will wonder the same thing about a CV or cover letter filled with errors.
Griping about past employers
Keep in mind that you're not guaranteed to be with any company forever. When you talk bad about your last company, your interviewer's thinking, "What are you going to say about me once you leave?"
Not asking questions
One quintessential interview question is, "Do you have any questions for me?" Sitting there silently suggests you're not invested in the job. When you go to a restaurant, you probably have a few questions for the waiter. Shouldn't you be just as curious about a new job?
Not doing your research
Research for a new job involves two important subjects: the position and the company. Find out as much about the position as you can so you can decide if you even want it and so you can position yourself as the best fit for the job.
Knowing all you can about the company will help you decide if you like its direction and share its ideals. Plus, when it comes to the all-important "Do you have any questions for us?" portion of the interview (see above), you have plenty of material to cover.
Being too honest
Not every job will turn into a lifelong career, and you might have no intention of staying at the company more than a year or two when you interview. Still, hiring managers don't want to hear that you're taking this job just to pass time until you find a real job that you care about. You don't need to commit yourself to the company for a decade, but don't make yourself sound like a flight risk, either.
Talking about money too soon
As eager as you are to land the job and cash your first paycheck, let the employer mention salary first. Broaching the subject first implies you're more eager about money than about doing a good job.
Stalking the hiring manager
If the interviewer gives you a deadline for hearing back from him or her, go ahead and call to see if a decision has been made. Do not call, e-mail and visit every day until you finally get a response -- which will probably be, "You definitely did not get the job."
Assuming you got the job
Don't ever assume you have the job until you actually hear the hiring manager say, "You got the job." Several factors can complicate whether or not you get hired, so don't halt your job search until you receive an offer. Keep searching for work because the deal might fall through at the last minute or you might find an even better job.
Forgetting the lessons you learned during a job search
When your hard work pays off and you do land a job, don't forget all the trials and trouble you went through to get it. Just because you have a paycheck doesn't mean you've looked for your last job. Remember how important it is to maintain a network, keep track of your achievements and have good references. If you do find yourself looking for work again, you'll have a much easier time. Don't forget mistakes from your past, either. Look back at jobs you hated and try to avoid landing one of those jobs again.
Assuming you'll never need to look for another job
If you have a job and you love it, then that's great. If you're happy there and see a promising future, let's hope you never have to leave. Nevertheless, you should always be prepared for the day you have to move on. Even if the boss loves you, things can change. Buyouts, economic disasters or changes in leadership can affect your employment. Continue to update your CV while you're employed so that you have an accurate record of your accomplishments.
http://www.careerbuilder.co.uk/Article/CB-365-Job-Search-How-you-can-easily-sabotage-your-job-search/?lr=int_ukyahoo&cachebypass=%24Y
With that in mind, look over the following ways you might be unknowingly sabotaging your job search:
Don't talk about your job search
Most people aren't keen on being unemployed, and if you were laid off it's understandable that you don't want to spend all your time talking about it. But you need to network; it's one of the most effective ways to find a job. A friend of a friend of a friend often gets you the interview that lands you the job -- but that won't happen if no one knows you're looking for new career opportunities.
Looking for the perfect job
Although you want to conduct a focused job search, you need to keep an open mind. With any luck, you'll land the perfect gig, but sometimes you have to take a job that possesses most of the qualities you want -- not all of them. If the pay is right and the requirements are in line with your experience, then you might have to overlook the fact that you will have a longer commute than you had planned.
Burning bridges
We love the scenes in movies where the disgruntled employee finally tells off the boss and storms out of the office, only to live a happy, fulfilling life. In real life, these idols are probably unemployed because they don't have good references, and no employer wants to hire someone with a tarnished reputation.
Not keeping track of your applications
Because a job hunt can be lengthy, you should have a running list of where you've applied and whether or not you've heard back. Although you don't think you'll forget where you applied, after a dozen applications your memory can get fuzzy. Sending multiple applications to the same employer says, "I'm either disorganised or I'm just sending out bulk applications."
A generic cover letter
The only thing worse than no cover letter is one that could be sent to any anonymous employer. Starting with "To Whom It May Concern" and filling the page with phrases like "hard working" will signal the reader that you're blindly sending out applications to every job opening you see. Hiring managers are looking for someone who fits their needs, and their needs are different than another employer's. Don't treat them the same.
Typos
If you received a wedding invitation full of misspelled words and poor punctuation, you'd probably wonder why these two people didn't take the time to proofread the page. After all, it's an important event and a lot of people will be reading it. Employers will wonder the same thing about a CV or cover letter filled with errors.
Griping about past employers
Keep in mind that you're not guaranteed to be with any company forever. When you talk bad about your last company, your interviewer's thinking, "What are you going to say about me once you leave?"
Not asking questions
One quintessential interview question is, "Do you have any questions for me?" Sitting there silently suggests you're not invested in the job. When you go to a restaurant, you probably have a few questions for the waiter. Shouldn't you be just as curious about a new job?
Not doing your research
Research for a new job involves two important subjects: the position and the company. Find out as much about the position as you can so you can decide if you even want it and so you can position yourself as the best fit for the job.
Knowing all you can about the company will help you decide if you like its direction and share its ideals. Plus, when it comes to the all-important "Do you have any questions for us?" portion of the interview (see above), you have plenty of material to cover.
Being too honest
Not every job will turn into a lifelong career, and you might have no intention of staying at the company more than a year or two when you interview. Still, hiring managers don't want to hear that you're taking this job just to pass time until you find a real job that you care about. You don't need to commit yourself to the company for a decade, but don't make yourself sound like a flight risk, either.
Talking about money too soon
As eager as you are to land the job and cash your first paycheck, let the employer mention salary first. Broaching the subject first implies you're more eager about money than about doing a good job.
Stalking the hiring manager
If the interviewer gives you a deadline for hearing back from him or her, go ahead and call to see if a decision has been made. Do not call, e-mail and visit every day until you finally get a response -- which will probably be, "You definitely did not get the job."
Assuming you got the job
Don't ever assume you have the job until you actually hear the hiring manager say, "You got the job." Several factors can complicate whether or not you get hired, so don't halt your job search until you receive an offer. Keep searching for work because the deal might fall through at the last minute or you might find an even better job.
Forgetting the lessons you learned during a job search
When your hard work pays off and you do land a job, don't forget all the trials and trouble you went through to get it. Just because you have a paycheck doesn't mean you've looked for your last job. Remember how important it is to maintain a network, keep track of your achievements and have good references. If you do find yourself looking for work again, you'll have a much easier time. Don't forget mistakes from your past, either. Look back at jobs you hated and try to avoid landing one of those jobs again.
Assuming you'll never need to look for another job
If you have a job and you love it, then that's great. If you're happy there and see a promising future, let's hope you never have to leave. Nevertheless, you should always be prepared for the day you have to move on. Even if the boss loves you, things can change. Buyouts, economic disasters or changes in leadership can affect your employment. Continue to update your CV while you're employed so that you have an accurate record of your accomplishments.
http://www.careerbuilder.co.uk/Article/CB-365-Job-Search-How-you-can-easily-sabotage-your-job-search/?lr=int_ukyahoo&cachebypass=%24Y
Wednesday 19 October 2011
Interview Do' & Dont's
An interview is a discussion between you and an employer to find out if you can do the job. However, there are certain rules to follow in interviews. Here's a checklist of the main do's and don'ts.
What to do:
dress smartly, look bright and attentive, and speak clearly and confidently. Don't forget that only 7% of the interviewer's opinion of you is formed by what you say - the rest is judged on how you look, act and sound
find out where the venue is beforehand, how to get there and how long it takes
get your outfit ready the night before
find out what kind of interview it will be so you can prepare
examine the person specification and your CV/application form, and think about what type of questions they will ask you
prepare answers for the main questions - for example, why do you want the job, what are your strengths and weaknesses, what are the main tasks in this job?
make about three or four points in each answer
quote real examples of when you've used certain skills - just saying you've got a skill isn't enough
take your time when answering the questions. Make sure you understand the question and take your time if you need to think
sell yourself. No-one else is going to! Be positive about yourself and your experiences
prepare some questions to ask at the end - use it as an opportunity to find out more about the role and the company. But don't ask about money or perks just yet!
when discussing salary, know your market worth and start by quoting a little higher than this
get feedback on your performance, whether you were successful or not
turn off your mobile! Treat the interviewers with respect and give them your undivided attention
keep your answers focused on what you can do for the employer, not what they can do for you.
What not to do:
don't be late!
don't swear or use slang words
don't slouch in your seat or do anything that makes you look uninterested
don't smoke
don't lie! The interviewer may see through you. Even if you get the job, your employer can dismiss you if they find out
don't let your nerves show too much. A few nerves are normal but extreme nerves will affect your performance. Use breathing techniques and try to remember that it's not a life and death situation - there are plenty of jobs out there!
don't be arrogant and assume you've got the job. Nothing turns off employers more than someone who is disrespectful and over-confident
don't discuss controversial topics such as religion, politics and gender relations
don't read from notes or your CV. You should be familiar enough with your own history to be able to talk about it unprompted
don't criticise former employers or colleagues. Interviewers may mark you down as a troublemaker and a gossip
don't argue with the interviewer, no matter what. Remember to keep things positive!
These rules apply for most jobs. However, employers in some industries can use more relaxed and informal interviewing techniques. In some creative fields (design and media for example) it may be expected that you turn up for the interview in casual clothes, as that is the dress code in the office. If you're in any doubt, do some research on typical interview technique in your line of work.
Above all, preparation is the key to performing well in interviews. Research the role and organisation, and prepare evidence and examples of your skills and competencies.
What to do:
dress smartly, look bright and attentive, and speak clearly and confidently. Don't forget that only 7% of the interviewer's opinion of you is formed by what you say - the rest is judged on how you look, act and sound
find out where the venue is beforehand, how to get there and how long it takes
get your outfit ready the night before
find out what kind of interview it will be so you can prepare
examine the person specification and your CV/application form, and think about what type of questions they will ask you
prepare answers for the main questions - for example, why do you want the job, what are your strengths and weaknesses, what are the main tasks in this job?
make about three or four points in each answer
quote real examples of when you've used certain skills - just saying you've got a skill isn't enough
take your time when answering the questions. Make sure you understand the question and take your time if you need to think
sell yourself. No-one else is going to! Be positive about yourself and your experiences
prepare some questions to ask at the end - use it as an opportunity to find out more about the role and the company. But don't ask about money or perks just yet!
when discussing salary, know your market worth and start by quoting a little higher than this
get feedback on your performance, whether you were successful or not
turn off your mobile! Treat the interviewers with respect and give them your undivided attention
keep your answers focused on what you can do for the employer, not what they can do for you.
What not to do:
don't be late!
don't swear or use slang words
don't slouch in your seat or do anything that makes you look uninterested
don't smoke
don't lie! The interviewer may see through you. Even if you get the job, your employer can dismiss you if they find out
don't let your nerves show too much. A few nerves are normal but extreme nerves will affect your performance. Use breathing techniques and try to remember that it's not a life and death situation - there are plenty of jobs out there!
don't be arrogant and assume you've got the job. Nothing turns off employers more than someone who is disrespectful and over-confident
don't discuss controversial topics such as religion, politics and gender relations
don't read from notes or your CV. You should be familiar enough with your own history to be able to talk about it unprompted
don't criticise former employers or colleagues. Interviewers may mark you down as a troublemaker and a gossip
don't argue with the interviewer, no matter what. Remember to keep things positive!
These rules apply for most jobs. However, employers in some industries can use more relaxed and informal interviewing techniques. In some creative fields (design and media for example) it may be expected that you turn up for the interview in casual clothes, as that is the dress code in the office. If you're in any doubt, do some research on typical interview technique in your line of work.
Above all, preparation is the key to performing well in interviews. Research the role and organisation, and prepare evidence and examples of your skills and competencies.
Interview Advice
Which questions should I ask at the end of the interview?
At the end of the interview you usually get the opportunity to ask your own questions. You should always ask at least one question, to show your enthusiasm and interest in the job.
Here are some examples:
Can you describe a typical day?
What training do you offer?
Ask about something you read about in your research – such as a new product or service
Who will I be working with?
Who will my manager be?
Where do I fit into the organisational structure?
How much of my time will be spent on this task?
How do you see the role developing?
When will you let me know the outcome of the interview?
What if I get asked about skills or experience I haven't got evidence of?
You can face questions like this if you're applying for promotion or going for a career change.
As a general rule, you should apply for jobs you've got most of the skills for, but it's ok if you haven't got a couple of them. Remember that the person specification is an ideal, and no one person might meet all the points.
However, you will have to show that you have the potential to develop these skills. You can do this by describing times when you've:
been given extra responsibilities
been left in charge
showed this skill on an informal basis, either in work or at home.
For example, if you're applying for a job as an ambulance care assistant, you'll know that for this job you'll need to know how to carry patients and secure them in the vehicle. You could mention how you've done this with small children or elderly relatives, so you are aware of the need for safety. You need to show that you're aware of the need for the skill, and show that you're capable of developing it.
If you have no related experience like this to call on, you could describe how you would act if you were placed in this situation. For example, if you had to deal with a difficult customer you could explain how you would approach it: stay calm, be polite and be clear on what your roles are.
Explain how you approach learning new skills, and that you are a keen and efficient learner. You may also score points if you describe how you handle tasks that don't play to your natural strengths. This shows you are willing to be adaptable and take on tasks that don't come that naturally to you.
What should I do the night before the interview?
It's important to prepare for interviews. But the night before the interview you shouldn't put in too much work – you might want to do something that relaxes you, such as watching a film or having a bath. Last minute "cramming" might only stress you out.
What if I was fired from my last job?
If you were laid off as part of a general reduction in the workforce, be honest about it but then move on quickly. But if you were fired for misconduct or not fulfilling your responsibilities as laid out in your contract, deal with this differently.
You can admit to occasional failings if you show that you've learnt from them. For instance, if you lost motivation, became lazy and got caught, describe how you intend to stay motivated in future. If you broke company policy, you could say you were going through personal or financial problems at the time, but that now they are resolved.
You should check out your references. If it was your last boss who fired you, and you have to list your last boss as a reference, phone them up to try and clear the air. Say you understand why they had to fire you, but you've learned from the experience and are looking to start afresh.
Explain that you're looking for a reference as you’re looking for work. Ask what they would say about you. Ask if they would say you were fired or if they would say you resigned. Not many bosses would keep giving you a bad reference to prevent you getting new work.
So even with these questions, honesty is the best policy. But always end with a positive, and show how you learnt from a negative experience.
What if I get asked why I've been out of work for a long time?
Firstly, stress any positive activities you've undertaken during your period out of work, such as:
voluntary work
courses
keeping up with developments in your field
treating job seeking as a full-time job
keeping fit
networking.
You can also say that you were being selective, and not taking the first job that came along. Stress you were waiting for the right opportunity, such as the job being offered by the employer interviewing you.
What if I voluntarily left my job?
Make sure you state positive reasons for leaving. The best reason is to say that you wanted a fresh challenge, and you wanted to fully concentrate your efforts on finding your next opportunity. Reflect positively on your time in your previous job - describe how you developed in the role and say you were grateful for the opportunity.
At the end of the interview you usually get the opportunity to ask your own questions. You should always ask at least one question, to show your enthusiasm and interest in the job.
Here are some examples:
Can you describe a typical day?
What training do you offer?
Ask about something you read about in your research – such as a new product or service
Who will I be working with?
Who will my manager be?
Where do I fit into the organisational structure?
How much of my time will be spent on this task?
How do you see the role developing?
When will you let me know the outcome of the interview?
What if I get asked about skills or experience I haven't got evidence of?
You can face questions like this if you're applying for promotion or going for a career change.
As a general rule, you should apply for jobs you've got most of the skills for, but it's ok if you haven't got a couple of them. Remember that the person specification is an ideal, and no one person might meet all the points.
However, you will have to show that you have the potential to develop these skills. You can do this by describing times when you've:
been given extra responsibilities
been left in charge
showed this skill on an informal basis, either in work or at home.
For example, if you're applying for a job as an ambulance care assistant, you'll know that for this job you'll need to know how to carry patients and secure them in the vehicle. You could mention how you've done this with small children or elderly relatives, so you are aware of the need for safety. You need to show that you're aware of the need for the skill, and show that you're capable of developing it.
If you have no related experience like this to call on, you could describe how you would act if you were placed in this situation. For example, if you had to deal with a difficult customer you could explain how you would approach it: stay calm, be polite and be clear on what your roles are.
Explain how you approach learning new skills, and that you are a keen and efficient learner. You may also score points if you describe how you handle tasks that don't play to your natural strengths. This shows you are willing to be adaptable and take on tasks that don't come that naturally to you.
What should I do the night before the interview?
It's important to prepare for interviews. But the night before the interview you shouldn't put in too much work – you might want to do something that relaxes you, such as watching a film or having a bath. Last minute "cramming" might only stress you out.
What if I was fired from my last job?
If you were laid off as part of a general reduction in the workforce, be honest about it but then move on quickly. But if you were fired for misconduct or not fulfilling your responsibilities as laid out in your contract, deal with this differently.
You can admit to occasional failings if you show that you've learnt from them. For instance, if you lost motivation, became lazy and got caught, describe how you intend to stay motivated in future. If you broke company policy, you could say you were going through personal or financial problems at the time, but that now they are resolved.
You should check out your references. If it was your last boss who fired you, and you have to list your last boss as a reference, phone them up to try and clear the air. Say you understand why they had to fire you, but you've learned from the experience and are looking to start afresh.
Explain that you're looking for a reference as you’re looking for work. Ask what they would say about you. Ask if they would say you were fired or if they would say you resigned. Not many bosses would keep giving you a bad reference to prevent you getting new work.
So even with these questions, honesty is the best policy. But always end with a positive, and show how you learnt from a negative experience.
What if I get asked why I've been out of work for a long time?
Firstly, stress any positive activities you've undertaken during your period out of work, such as:
voluntary work
courses
keeping up with developments in your field
treating job seeking as a full-time job
keeping fit
networking.
You can also say that you were being selective, and not taking the first job that came along. Stress you were waiting for the right opportunity, such as the job being offered by the employer interviewing you.
What if I voluntarily left my job?
Make sure you state positive reasons for leaving. The best reason is to say that you wanted a fresh challenge, and you wanted to fully concentrate your efforts on finding your next opportunity. Reflect positively on your time in your previous job - describe how you developed in the role and say you were grateful for the opportunity.
Types of Interview
Which types of interview are there?
If you've not had an interview for a while, it's worth knowing that organisations use different types of interview for different types of job. Some of the most common are:
Competency-based
These interviews focus on the skills and attributes needed for the job. You'll have to relate your skills and experience to the job in question.
Technical
These are for technical positions such as IT or engineering jobs. You will probably be asked to display your technical knowledge of a certain process or skill. They may ask you to do this by talking about your previous experience or by asking you hypothetical questions, such as "what would you do if you were working on this project?"
Face-to-face
This is where the interviewer meets with the candidate in person.
Telephone
Some organisations use these as the first stage of screening. You may be warned in advance or contacted out of the blue. First impressions count, so you should prepare for a telephone interview just as much as you would for a face-to-face interview. But unless it takes place on a videophone, you won't need to put your interview suit on!
Panel
This is an interview where more than one person interviews you. Usually, one person chairs the interview and panel members take it in turns to ask you different questions. You should direct your answer mainly towards the panel member that asked the question.
If you've not had an interview for a while, it's worth knowing that organisations use different types of interview for different types of job. Some of the most common are:
Competency-based
These interviews focus on the skills and attributes needed for the job. You'll have to relate your skills and experience to the job in question.
Technical
These are for technical positions such as IT or engineering jobs. You will probably be asked to display your technical knowledge of a certain process or skill. They may ask you to do this by talking about your previous experience or by asking you hypothetical questions, such as "what would you do if you were working on this project?"
Face-to-face
This is where the interviewer meets with the candidate in person.
Telephone
Some organisations use these as the first stage of screening. You may be warned in advance or contacted out of the blue. First impressions count, so you should prepare for a telephone interview just as much as you would for a face-to-face interview. But unless it takes place on a videophone, you won't need to put your interview suit on!
Panel
This is an interview where more than one person interviews you. Usually, one person chairs the interview and panel members take it in turns to ask you different questions. You should direct your answer mainly towards the panel member that asked the question.
Friday 14 October 2011
Top 10 tips for leaving your job in good terms ....
Most new jobs begin the same way – with leaving your previous job. Yet, while there’s plenty of advice about how to get in the new door, or what to do in those first weeks, there’s a deficit of advice regarding the equally-important requirements when leaving your old employer. Given the damaging and long-term mistakes that can be made at this vital juncture I’ve decided to fill this gap myself. Here, then, are my ’10 ways to leave your employer’:
1) Give good notice. It’s always tempting to walk out on a job once we’ve found more gainful employment elsewhere. The incentives are all now beyond the door so why hang around? Indeed, in some industries you are immediately sent on ’gardening leave’ to prevent you taking company secrets (or clients). But most sectors still expect you to give at least a month’s notice and they’ll be mightily miffed if you can’t be bothered. But remember – your behaviour now says more about you than any other moment in your employment with that company. So it isn’t just your reference you need to worry about (or the terms of your contract, come to that), it’s your reputation. Even if your new employer pressurises you – insist on working your statutory notice period. Ultimately, your new boss will be impressed by your professionalism (and if they’re not, then you should question theirs).
2) Work your notice. After your first, the most important month you’ll ever work for your existing employer is your last. Refuse jobs or execute them poorly, slouch off with fake illnesses, create problems with colleagues or simply be on a go slow is the quickest way to undo all the positive work that you used to win your new employment. This is one I’ve learnt painfully – but being an idiot at this point will leave them happy to see the back of you. No matter why you are leaving – leave well. And, you never know…
3) Build rather than burn bridges. Indeed, this is a strong moment to build bridges between your current employer and your future career, so burning bridges is stupid in the extreme. This is a good moment to heal wounds with hostile colleagues, or repair any broken bonds around the building. You have nothing to lose by this, and everything to gain. Thinking it your chance to offload some ’home truths’, meanwhile, creates the exact opposite dynamic. As for the boss, make sure he/she leaves with positive thoughts about you. Slag them off, and they’ll be glad you revealed your true colours before leaving. Be nice, and they’ll see the positives they noticed when employing you. And, as stated, you just never know…
4) Owed money and holidays. Don’t be greedy. If you agree to work to a certain date, accept it. If you have holiday owing (pro rata) – fine, but why not give them the choice of buying it back? Many employees assume that they’ll be somehow shafted in the final analysis, but they rarely are. In fact, they are usually the shafters, which is a shame. And the insistence on pushing for the max can mean that resistance builds and you get the minimum. Creating conflict for a few pennies is self-defeating in the long run. It’s extremely unlikely that the wages team are out to ’get you’ no matter what you think. So relax.
5) Hand over docs. If you want to leave a strong legacy then write a blinding handover document that details everything they need. It should be the most important project of your notice period. If you become difficult at this point – guarding information or writing poor instructions – then, again, it will reflect badly on you. Most will assume you were covering poor execution that’s only now being revealed, which is hardly the legacy you want to leave. Meanwhile, clearly written, comprehensive and well-presented document will make your memory live on into the future.
6) Honesty and integrity. This is NOT the time to stock up on stationery or make long calls to your auntie in New Zealand. In fact, what may have once been tolerated as an unstated perk of the job will almost certainly now be seen as ’taking the micky’. So care – and integrity – is required.
7) References. Sure, you can insist on one of those pre-written references if you worry that you’ll not get a fair reference from your outgoing boss on request, but most employers see straight through them and assume there’s a reason you don’t trust them as a name on your CV. If you’re really concerned that they’ll diss you at some future date (an unlikely eventuality unless there’s been a serious breakdown) then why not talk to them about it? You have nothing to lose, and it may clear the air. If they remain ungenerous then you could always find a more supportive manager as a referee.
8) The exit interview. Certainly, I’ve had people tell me what they think of me as they head for the door for the final time – and I always take notice of what they say. But it usually tells me more about them (like most people with high fear of failure, I tend to be well aware of my faults). Yet constructive criticism from someone first stating the positives they took from the job, and then perhaps the areas we should look at, before ending on a positive note (the classic ’s**t sandwich’ in other words) will always have me listening more than hurled insults. But why not be extra generous? Really emphasis the positives and minimise the negatives. Leave with them loving your positivity – again, you have nothing to lose.
9) Stay in contact. Once in the new job, quickly make contact with your old employer and let them know how you’re getting on, and give them your new details (as well as a willingness to try and solve any lingering issues from the handover). Again, temper the smugness – you are now a fellow professional in the industry, so act like it. All sectors are networks of people and both you and your old boss have won a strong new contact, which will help at industry events if nowhere else. Synergies can soon be explored in all sorts of directions – a wonderful result.
10) Sanitise your memory. When talking about your old firm, stay positive. Again, this is one I’ve learnt from bitter experience but if you now feel free to slag the company you’ll create a bad impression of yourself and of your CV (why did you work at such an awful place for so long?). And it may get back to your old company and damage the relationship, which – again – is a pointless own goal. Why not big them up, and with it your role at the heart of their machine? If nothing else, it will help you see your time there as a positive experience.
Robert Kelsey
Thursday 13 October 2011
FOUR in ten workers feel that they are being over-worked, research has shown.
A study by Aviva Health looking into the views of employers and their staff on issues relating to workplace wellbeing, found that 41% of workers say they have too much work to do.
Nearly a third (30%) are working longer hours, and 23% admit that they feel tired all the time.
Over a quarter of workers say that the current climate is making their working life increasingly stressful.
However, far fewer employees are adopting unhealthy behaviours despite feeling under pressure.
Only 19% of employees say that they eat unhealthily to help them deal with stress compared to 34% in Aviva’s 2009 research.
Similarly, just 11% feel that they smoke more – a fall of seven per cent.
Dr Doug Wright, head of clinical development, Aviva UK Health says: “It’s great to see employees are taking control of their health and looking after themselves.
"It’s also encouraging that many employers are taking more responsibility for the health of their workforce as they recognise how it directly impacts on productivity.
“However, employers need to be sure that they are spending their money wisely by using invaluable insight - such as their sickness absence data - to help them understand which benefits will best meet their companies’ specific needs.
"This will not only help benefit staff health, but could also have a positive effect on the bottom line.”
Monday 10 October 2011
15 most common CV writing mistakes (courtesy of the Telegraph)
The Telegraph has published the 15 most common mistakes when writing a CV. A mistake on your CV could cost you the job, yet these simple blunders are easily avoided. The list is as follows:
1. Inclusion of photographs
Unless you are applying to be a model or wish to work as an actor/actress then including a photo with/on your CV is definitely not recommended – at least not within the UK
2. Inappropriate heading
Your CV should be headed with your name, boldly and clearly, before any other details. They should no longer be headed ‘Curriculum Vitae’ or ‘CV’ – this is considered old fashioned.
3. Inappropriate email addresses
Employers will probably regard more ‘serious’ email addresses as simply more professional.
4. Superfluous personal details at the top of the CV
E.g. marital status, nationality and number of children / dependents
It certainly used to be the norm to include this sort of information on a CV, but is now increasingly rare, given modern anti-discrimination legislation, to find these sorts of details on a CV. Such information is not relevant.
5. Lack of clear section headings/separation of sections
It is vitally important for your CV to be easy for the reader to scan quickly and, to this end, clear section headings and separation of sections is essential.
6. Writing in the first person
The words ‘I’ and ‘me’ are often used repeatedly in homemade CVs. CVs should be written exclusively in the third person. Recruitment experts conclusively agree that this is the best way to do it.
7. Lack of proper Professional Profile
A Professional Profile is a brief statement at the very beginning of a CV which, in the space of a few short lines, conveys to the reader an overall impression of your key personal and professional characteristics. It’s essentially an introduction and should give the reader an overview before they read on in further detail.
8. Inappropriate section order
It’s extremely important to choose an appropriate order for the various sections of your CV. For example, the decision whether to put your Education & Qualifications before or after your Career History is critical. It all depends on what is your greater selling point.
9. No bullet pointing
In today’s fast-paced world, recruiters no longer have the time to read large, solid blocks of prose. They need to extract the information they need – and they need to do it fast. Long paragraphs of prose are tiresome for a recruiter to read right through and, as a result, many simply won’t bother.
10. Reverse chronological order not used
It is a standard convention on CVs to use reverse chronological order, i.e. to present your most recent information first, followed by older – and consequently less relevant – information.
11. Excessive details of interests
You should aim to keep your interests section brief. As with every other aspect of your CV, do include what you feel will count in your favour – but be selective about it. Choose carefully.
12. Date of Birth included
I often get asked whether or not you should include your date of birth (or age) on a CV. No, you shouldn’t. Not since the introduction of The Employment Equality (Age) Regulations 2006.
13. Referees included
Details of referees generally shouldn’t be included on your CV. They’re a waste of valuable space! They clutter it up and, more importantly, you will find that your referees get pestered unnecessarily by time wasters.
14. Spelling, Grammar & Typos
It is impossible to stress enough how important this issue is. Spelling and grammatical errors are amongst the most irritating errors a recruiter sees, amongst the most damaging errors you can make – and are also amongst the most easily avoided.
15. Length
This is one of the most common problems when people prepare their own CVs – they’re quite simply too long.
Friday 7 October 2011
10 Key Areas to Cover When Interviewing for Your Company
The interview process is designed to enable you, or members of your organisation, to be to establish the best candidate for the job. The interview should follow a structure that allows you to explore the candidate and should allow candidates to enquire about the organisation as well as the role. There are ten important areas to consider;
1. Skills – what are the strengths and weaknesses of the candidate? Ask for examples.
2. The organisation – ask the candidate why they are applying for the job. Probe a little further, and ask them their thoughts about your website.
3. Work history – make enquiries and try to ascertain whether the candidate has relevant skills and experience.
4. The role –what does the candidate already know about the organisation and the products or services that you provide. In particular ask how their experience will equip them to do the job.
5. Motivation – how would the candidate approach the role?
6. Ambitions – ask the candidate what their short and long term ambitions are.
7. Team working – ask them what qualities are evident in a team member and a team leader.
8. Can they think and act quickly? – ask them an unusual question. You should look for answers that are clear and succinct.
9. Personality – enquire as to any interests outside of work.
10. Ask the candidate if they have any questions. This will indicate just how much research the candidate has done – usually an indicator of the extent to which they want the job.
Following a structure like this should allow you to establish who the right candidate for the job is whilst allowing the candidates to find out more about your organisation and the specific role.
For expert advice on managing the recruitment process please get in touch with Spitfire Recruitment.
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