Job Searching Advice

If you want to work with us, or just need general information on applying for jobs, then you’ll find the right advice here.

Working With Us

It’s in every party’s interest to have as much information about you, the candidate, as possible. The information used in your Curriculum Vitae (see Creating Your CV below), and all relevant information, is added to our database. The database is core to our recruitment process, so keep us informed of any changes. We will contact you with details if your skills match an opportunity. The details help you to make an informed decision about applying. If you apply and are offered an interview, your consultant will help you prepare by researching the workplace. He or she can also do mock interviews with you! (see Handling Interviews below) Before a job offer is made, it is our responsibility to act as your liaison. If you do not receive an offer after a reasonable period, then we will enquire about the application’s status with the potential employer. Remember, the information you give us is confidential (protected under the Information Privacy Act 2000 - see our privacy policy).

Creating Your CV

A CV is your first contact with a potential client. Make that first impression count by selling yourself. The questions you should consider before sending a CV are;

Is it easy to read?

Use plain text and language
Limit length to four pages maximum – two pages is ideal
Have a simple structure – lead with education and experience
Recent information is the most relevant
Staple pages together and number the pages
CHECK SPELLING!

Is it relevant to the job you want?

Highlight relevant experience/education
Mention all experience/education, but detail the relevant entries
Keep the reader in mind when writing your CV

Does it provide potential employers a complete and accurate picture?

Don’t leave gaps in your work history and always give reasons for gaps
Include hobbies and interests, but keep it short
Don’t brush over points of interest to your reader

Have you made it easy for potential employers to take the next step?

Include a ‘call to action’
Put contact details at the start and in the header of each page
Offer a date and time to discuss your CV and the job over the phone - if you are unavailable on certain dates mention them now (in the cover letter)

Handling Interviews

Preparation. Preparation. Preparation. If nothing else you should go into your interview confident that you know the business/industry, know their expectations, and know the interview process. These interview tips, while important, are just icing on the cake if you are already prepared.

Before the interviews remember to;

Dress smartly
Read over your CV to remember what your interviewer knows about you
Treat all staff you meet with respect, and always be friendly
Try to find out why your potential employer wants to talk to you
Check with your recruiter that you understand the business’ culture and its market position

During the interview remember;

Don’t panic when questioned - it’s the process every applicant must go through
If you need clarification on a question, then ask for it
Maintain open body language
Be honest. Focus on strengths, but also discuss weaknesses
Ask your own, prepared, questions and note down any that might arise during the interview
Enquire about the next step, and ensure they have the correct contact details
Thank everyone as you leave, and ask for a business card from the interviewer

After the interview remember to;

Call your recruitment consultant to brief him or her, and to ask any questions that you have about the interview or the potential employer
Send thank-you notes to the interviewers, details should be on the business card you requested

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