Sunday 11 December 2011
Common Types of Interview and What to Expect
If you've not had an interview for a while, it's worth knowing that organisations use several types of interview for different types of job. Here is a list of the more common types:
Competency-based
These interviews focus on the skills and attributes needed for the job, so 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 may be asked to demonstrate your technical knowledge of a certain process or skill. This could include talking about your technical 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 telephone interviews 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.
Panel
This is where more than one person is giving the interview. 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.
Saturday 10 December 2011
Jobseekers Not Making The Most of Social Networking
When it comes to looking for a new job, your social network really could hold the key.
According to an online survey carried out by YouGov, approximately one in five jobseekers do not tell others they are job hunting. BraveNewTalent.com commissioned the study, which revealed that over 1/3 of those aged 55 or over do not share others their job plans with others, while just 7% of 18-24year olds keep quiet about it.
The online survey found that relying on personal contacts is one of the most effective ways to land yourself a new position, as 62% of people have recommended a job to a family member, friend or colleague. Of this 62%, 57% succeeded in securing the job.
A separate survey also found that a growing number of employers say they either intend to, or will, use social networking sites as a means of recruitment. Despite this, only 1 in 10 people use online social networking sites to inform others they are seeking employment. This suggests that by not putting the word out online, people are losing out on a host of potential work opportunities.
According to an online survey carried out by YouGov, approximately one in five jobseekers do not tell others they are job hunting. BraveNewTalent.com commissioned the study, which revealed that over 1/3 of those aged 55 or over do not share others their job plans with others, while just 7% of 18-24year olds keep quiet about it.
The online survey found that relying on personal contacts is one of the most effective ways to land yourself a new position, as 62% of people have recommended a job to a family member, friend or colleague. Of this 62%, 57% succeeded in securing the job.
A separate survey also found that a growing number of employers say they either intend to, or will, use social networking sites as a means of recruitment. Despite this, only 1 in 10 people use online social networking sites to inform others they are seeking employment. This suggests that by not putting the word out online, people are losing out on a host of potential work opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions about CVs
Here we answer some frequently asked questions about CVs:
How long should my CV be?
A CV should be no longer than two pages, with line spaces between each section.
(Two pages may seem like not much space. If you struggle to stick to this you can free up some space by being brief on some less important details, such as jobs you held a long time ago.)
How should I present my CV?
A CV should be printed on white A4 paper, with consistent font usage, bold and bigger font for headings. Keep the layout simple, and use white space (rather than lines or graphics) to separate the sections.
Use good quality paper, as first impressions count. A photograph is not necessary for your CV (unless the job is for modelling or acting!).
What kind of writing style should l use?
CVs should be concise and easy to read. The words you use in your writing could make a big difference – try to use active words such as ‘managed’, ‘led’ and ‘achieved’ when describing previous jobs.
Always check your final CV for spelling and grammar mistakes. You can do this on the computer, but it is also a good idea to have it checked by somebody else.
Do I need different CVs for different jobs?
A CV should be tailored for the job you're applying for, matching your skills and experience to the requirements of the job. If you're replying to a job advert, look at the person specification and make sure these skills are mentioned in your CV.
Remember you can always keep a template CV – a basic document containing your employment history, which can be added to and tailored accordingly, depending on the job you are applying for.
Doesn't everyone stretch the truth a bit on their CV?
Although you want to sell yourself and put your skills and experience in the best light, never be tempted to invent qualifications or previous jobs! You may be asked for more information about them when attending an interview.
Where can I get more help with my CV?
We at Spitfire Recruitment Ltd offer help and advice for writing CVs and cover letters. Also check other posts on this blog for what not to put on your CV, as well as common CV writing mistakes.
How long should my CV be?
A CV should be no longer than two pages, with line spaces between each section.
(Two pages may seem like not much space. If you struggle to stick to this you can free up some space by being brief on some less important details, such as jobs you held a long time ago.)
How should I present my CV?
A CV should be printed on white A4 paper, with consistent font usage, bold and bigger font for headings. Keep the layout simple, and use white space (rather than lines or graphics) to separate the sections.
Use good quality paper, as first impressions count. A photograph is not necessary for your CV (unless the job is for modelling or acting!).
What kind of writing style should l use?
CVs should be concise and easy to read. The words you use in your writing could make a big difference – try to use active words such as ‘managed’, ‘led’ and ‘achieved’ when describing previous jobs.
Always check your final CV for spelling and grammar mistakes. You can do this on the computer, but it is also a good idea to have it checked by somebody else.
Do I need different CVs for different jobs?
A CV should be tailored for the job you're applying for, matching your skills and experience to the requirements of the job. If you're replying to a job advert, look at the person specification and make sure these skills are mentioned in your CV.
Remember you can always keep a template CV – a basic document containing your employment history, which can be added to and tailored accordingly, depending on the job you are applying for.
Doesn't everyone stretch the truth a bit on their CV?
Although you want to sell yourself and put your skills and experience in the best light, never be tempted to invent qualifications or previous jobs! You may be asked for more information about them when attending an interview.
Where can I get more help with my CV?
We at Spitfire Recruitment Ltd offer help and advice for writing CVs and cover letters. Also check other posts on this blog for what not to put on your CV, as well as common CV writing mistakes.
Thursday 8 December 2011
Advice on Redundancy
There are several reasons why someone may find themselves made redundant. Redundancy can be due to a fall in profits, an increase in competition, takeovers, mergers, technological advances and in some cases poor management. It is important to view being made redundant as an opportunity for change, rather than as a stumbling block - so look to the future and remain positive.
It can be a confusing time when you lose your job, so here are some important do's and don'ts:
Do:
Keep calm
Concentrate on the positive changes you can now make
Focus on moving forwards
Take stock of your situation and look at your options
Seek professional advice
Be open with your friends and family
Don't:
Take it personally – your position has been made redundant, not you
Get too down about yourself, as a lot of people face redundancy at some stage
Panic and make rash decisions
Feel too negatively about the company that made you redundant
Redundancy is a time of change. Most people find change unsettling, but change can also be for the better.
As well as adjusting to the fact you’ve been made redundant, there are also some practical aspects you will need to think about. Before you leave your employer:
Pick up your P45
Get written details of your redundancy payment and package
Make a note of the contact details for your: line manager, trade union representative, human resources department and pension fund trustees
(If your employer offered any benefits such as health insurance, take contact details of these too.)
Furthermore, your employer may provide free careers guidance to help you decide on your next move. Some employers offer money for training. Make the most of whatever they have to offer you.
Redundancy issues can be complex, so you should seek help from a professional adviser who can explain your rights and consider your financial options.
You can seek redundancy advice from:
Your trade union
Professional bodies and associations
Your local Citizens' Advice Bureau
Independent financial advisers
Employment law experts
And remember – although this is a worrying time financially; do not make any rushed decisions. Weigh up all your options carefully and consider things for the long term.
If it is a while before you manage to get a job, you can use this time constructively. You could undertake volunteer work, to obtain vital experience and some new skills. Alternatively you could take a course.
If you're going for a complete career change you'll probably have to develop new skills to make the change. But even if you're seeking the same type of work as before, updating or broadening your skills is still a good idea.
Also, if you wish to seek counselling during this difficult time you can find a counsellor by searching the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy's database. You could also check with your employer to see if they are part of the Employee Assistance Programme which provides free practical and emotional help to workers and their families.
It can be a confusing time when you lose your job, so here are some important do's and don'ts:
Do:
Keep calm
Concentrate on the positive changes you can now make
Focus on moving forwards
Take stock of your situation and look at your options
Seek professional advice
Be open with your friends and family
Don't:
Take it personally – your position has been made redundant, not you
Get too down about yourself, as a lot of people face redundancy at some stage
Panic and make rash decisions
Feel too negatively about the company that made you redundant
Redundancy is a time of change. Most people find change unsettling, but change can also be for the better.
As well as adjusting to the fact you’ve been made redundant, there are also some practical aspects you will need to think about. Before you leave your employer:
Pick up your P45
Get written details of your redundancy payment and package
Make a note of the contact details for your: line manager, trade union representative, human resources department and pension fund trustees
(If your employer offered any benefits such as health insurance, take contact details of these too.)
Furthermore, your employer may provide free careers guidance to help you decide on your next move. Some employers offer money for training. Make the most of whatever they have to offer you.
Redundancy issues can be complex, so you should seek help from a professional adviser who can explain your rights and consider your financial options.
You can seek redundancy advice from:
Your trade union
Professional bodies and associations
Your local Citizens' Advice Bureau
Independent financial advisers
Employment law experts
And remember – although this is a worrying time financially; do not make any rushed decisions. Weigh up all your options carefully and consider things for the long term.
If it is a while before you manage to get a job, you can use this time constructively. You could undertake volunteer work, to obtain vital experience and some new skills. Alternatively you could take a course.
If you're going for a complete career change you'll probably have to develop new skills to make the change. But even if you're seeking the same type of work as before, updating or broadening your skills is still a good idea.
Also, if you wish to seek counselling during this difficult time you can find a counsellor by searching the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy's database. You could also check with your employer to see if they are part of the Employee Assistance Programme which provides free practical and emotional help to workers and their families.
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