Interview and CV tips for worried jobseekers!
If you’re on the market looking for employment then you know how hard times are getting - with a literal flooding of candidates applying for any available positions - employers are bombarded with CV’s and interviews. The trick of course is standing out from the crowd! Here are some tips on handling some of those more awkward questions or blemishes on your application and keeping your confidence high for those interviews.
1. Applying to a position that you have little or no experience at?
If you are changing careers you will want to focus on the “softer” skills - referred to as “portable” or “transferable” skills. These skills include communication skills, ability to work with a diversity of people, ability to plan and organise, time management, etc.
2. What makes you stand out from other candidates?
Personal traits could be the tie breaker between two equally qualified people. Think about your personality and your personal traits. One of the things that the interviewer is looking for is “someone to fit in,” “who is likeable,” who will work well with the other team members. Think of at least five personal traits that make you unique ” friendly, flexible, quick learner, reliable, responsible, easy to get along with.
3. Have confidence in yourself and your abilities. If you feel it sincerely it will show in your interview!
It is far easier to sell, and influence someone to buy, when you believe in your product and its reliability. Any sales person will tell you that.
4. Do your research and homework - prepare questions to ask about the position and the company or organisation.
If a certain topic, for example, “databases,” has been brought up, be sure to ask questions about the database; the challenges and the problems with the database. It is important to listen to what is said as a way to formulate other questions.
5. Prepare responses as stories about your past experiences where you used similar skills that would be needed for the position you are interviewing for.
Showing examples of past successes will give you a better chance of showing the interviewer that you have used skills like the ones they need even if the job duties are different.
6. Follow up contact after your interview can distinguish you from other interviewees.
Remind the interviewer what you would bring to the position by sending a follow up letter (or email) after the interview. Be sure to address any concerns that you may have picked up on during the interview.
7. Deal with rejection elegantly and with finesse.
When rejection comes, it may trigger old wounds from past life experiences. You may feel hurt or angry and fed up with the way you are being treated. Sometimes no matter how much you prepare and how much you try you will receive a rejection and not get the job.
Instead of being stuck and feeling rejected, take back the power by staying proactive. If you really want to work for that particular company, sit down and write a letter, stating how disappointed you were. Remind them of all the positive traits you could bring to the organization. Let them know that you are still interested in working for the company if something should change or open up.
Today’s market is no place for sissies ” be prepared to keep trying. Never give up. Be resilient. Please visit employersjobs.com to browse the latest job opportunities in your area! Financial Advisers are currently in high demand at Edward Jones - please click here for more information or to apply!
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