Tips for Job Seekers
Quickly improve your resume:
Here are five quick tips to help you write a resume that gets noticed:
- Remove sentences that begin with "Responsibilities included…" That works for a job description, but not a resume. Instead, list accomplishments. People who read resumes want to know what you’ve done.
- When writing accomplishments, quantify them whenever possible. For example, "Increased sales 15%.", "…resulting in savings of $40,000.", "…doubling the number of customers."
- If you’ve had at least one job in your chosen field after graduation, list your education after your work experience.
- Tailor your resume to fit the job you want. If you are responding to an ad, and you have six of the eight key requirements, be sure your resume says so. Don’t make the reader infer how competent you are. Companies generally spend less than one minute reading your resume during the first screening.
- Make sure there are no typos or improper uses of words. One of the top traits that hiring managers want is excellent communication skills. Since spell checkers don’t catch everything, be sure to have someone else proofread your resume.
If you want to improve the odds that you’ll land a job you’ll really love, make sure your resume reflects your strongest motivations and talents. You need to identify what truly motivates you, use keywords to help you explain it. Weave those words into your resume so that it accurately represents your potential.
Interview Advice:
Interviews can be daunting but if you follow our advice below you’ll be sure to make a good impression:
- In preparation for your interview, make sure you research the company fully including visiting their website and ensure that you have a full understanding of the duties and skills required within the role.
- A first impression counts, always look professional and this will help you feel more relaxed and confident.
- Ensure you know where the interview is taking place and give yourself plenty of time to arrive. Make sure you know the name of the person/people who are interviewing you and check if you need to take anything with you.
- A frequently asked question at an interview is regarding your strengths and weaknesses – it is always useful to prepare an answer in advance.
- During the interview, be polite, positive and remember to speak calmly and clearly.
- Give clear and succinct answers to the question that has been asked. If you don’t fully understand the question ask for it to be repeated.
- Ask questions about the position and the company. Establish what the next stage will be if you are successful.
- Contact your consultant as soon as possible after your interview to give them feedback.
Good Luck!