Job Seeking Hints
4chelmsford Job-Seeking Hints
1) Beginning the process of looking for a job
First of all spend a few minutes going through the jobs you’ve had in the past:-
What have liked/disliked about them?
What were you good at
Why did you leave?
What did you gain by the experience?
As well as your qualifications and experience think about your personality and what sort of work suits this –confident and a good communicator, reserved and preferring to work alone. Do you prefer working as a team or independently, are you someone that wants to work with people all the time or just get on with a task – office, manual etc.
Think about your passions, hobbies, ideals and values – these are all worth bearing in mind when job-seeking
2) Preparation
Draft out your C. V. keeping it business like, factual and if possible keep to one or 2 pages and of course spell check it!
Head it up with a personal statement which is a couple of sentence describing positively your experience to date and your aspirations for the future. Quote a line from a recent appraisal such as “enthusiastic and accurate worker”.
3) Applying
When looking at job adverts, find out as much information as you can by searching the internet for background knowledge on the company. Look at job description and person specification.
If filling in an application form, address each of the duties on the job description, detailing your experience to date. Include any relevant training, voluntary experience etc.
If the job just requires you to send in a CV – take the time to go though and amend your CV to cover every aspect of the job you are applying for – don’t just fire off the same CV for every job.
Applications forms can put off a lot of people who can’t be bothered to apply – so in a way this can work to your benefit if you make the effort to fill it in.
Ensure that your reasons for leaving are worded in as positive away as possible – you will be probably be questioned on this at interview.
Always send your CV or application form with a covering letter.
If you haven’t heard within a couple of weeks do not be afraid to chase up and get constructive feedback.
4) Interview
Upon receiving an appointment for interview ensure you recap on the job description and requirement and any company background. Arrive in plenty of time, be smart, smile, make good eye contact and listen carefully to the interviewers questions. Everyone feels a little nervous at interview so don’t be afraid to ask for clarification if you don’t understand a question. Try to relax and be positive with your replies.
Expect to be asked the following:
· Why do you think you would be suitable for this position?
· Why are you leaving your current position?
· What are your strengths and what are your weaknesses.
· Scenarios are often given during interviews to see how you tackle situations/problems that can arise.
· Interviewers often ask you to give examples of the following:-
a) A time when you had to work as part of a team
b) A time when you had to take the lead and organise an event
c) A project that you felt you did well
· If I asked your manager to describe you as an employer, what would he/she say?
Interviews are of course a 2 way process – they are checking you out as well as you checking out whether you will fit in with them. So go prepared with any questions you may have regarding the company – try to show an interest in what they do and ask for more information so you get a really good insight into the position.
At the end of the interview don’t be afraid to ask them if they have any reservations about you – this gives you a chance to answer any of their concerns. Thank them for the interview when you leave.
5) Following the interview
A brief email to thank them again for the interview and re-confirm your enthusiasm for the role can often sway them in your direction if the completion is close.
6) Moving onward
Keeping motivated in today’s job-seeking market can be difficult. However, wherever possible take the time to ask for feedback from you interview or application. Constantly review and update your CV and keep searching!
Good luck and good job hunting!