Preparing you for the right job by Natalie Wild

Finding the job for you
 
 
It’s all about you and the opportunities available whether you are looking for your first job or your next career move. As a HR Professional, I have seen many cv’s and interviewed many candidates for a variety of roles and levels of responsibility.    Although skills and experience are a key factor to consider, one thing that stands out to me most of all is personality, drive and a can do attitude.
 
Your CV
 
Getting you and your cv noticed by an employer is important in making a first impression and getting that job interview.
 
Your cv is your marketing tool to promote yourself. Consider how the employer may view the cv and how will you stand out from your competition. A cv should be updated as you learn new skills and build on experiences in the work place. Your cv should be clearly written and in a format that is easy to read. Focus on what your strengths are and include these at the beginning as your opening statement.
 
If you are invited for an interview, you can expand in more detail your cv.
 
Your Interview
 
Standing out from the next candidate is important and a job interview is a big deal. How you prepare yourself for the interview is a big factor to consider. You have already made a good impression with your cv which has resulted in you getting the interview. However, this will probably mean other candidates will be good too, so you are going to have to find your unique selling point in the interview.
 
Your Interview Preparation
 
Researching the company is one part of preparing for the interview. Perhaps arrange to visit a similar site, request some company literature or have a look at the company website. 
 
Request a copy of a Job Description so you can familiarise yourself with the technical skills required and think about your own experience and skills that will contribute to the role you have applied for.
 
Consider how you can add value to this company. Where you are unable to provide examples on the technical skills they are looking for, use these as your opportunity to discuss your development needs. From experience, don’t be negative and call them your weaknesses. We all have development needs however; it’s all about having the confidence and positive attitude and drive to learn these skills to demonstrate to your prospective employer that you are hard working and willing and right for the job.
 
Prepare some questions you want answered. Use open ended questions that begin with How, What, When, Why, Where. These questions will allow the interviewer to talk and provide you with extra information.
 
Don’t forget to get directions and plan your journey so you know where you are going.
 
Your Interview
 
Points to remember at the interview: Presentation – First Impressions last. Ensure you are smart and professional during the whole interview.
 
Be punctual if not early. If you are running late, make sure you contact the company and advise them of your expected arrival time.
 
A firm hand shake and smile is important, like wise maintaining eye contact throughout.   Be alert and enthusiastic.
 
Remember, although you are being interviewed for the job, you are also interviewing the company to make sure this is the right move for you. 
 
What are your first impressions of the company and interviewer?
 
Finally, relax, and if you are not successful, don’t be disheartened, use this is a positive learning experience and preparation for your next interview
 
Good Luck and contact info@yourhr.co.uk if you have any specific questions regarding the above