How to Win Your Dream Job Part 1

Without doubt, these are challenging times. Even more so if you are seeking a new post or commencing your career.

Competition for jobs is intense, to be successful you need to stand out from the crowd.

Following these six critical steps will certainly enhance your prospects.

I have led interviews for roles from apprentices to senior managers and have observed the full scale of applicants from dreadful to excellent. It can be a very nervy experience but with proper preparation you will significantly enhance the odds in your favour.

Step 1 Create an irresistible CV and cover letter. This will get you over the threshold to the critical element, the interview. There are numerous formats available to ensure your presentation looks professional. Your CV and cover letter must reflect the position for which you have applied and not be generic. Remember very many agencies and companies don’t read CVs, they scan for relevant key words. If they are not prominent then no matter how good a fit you are for the role, you are not going to be invited to interview. Check and double check spelling and grammar! If possible, have someone read over it for you.

Make sure your social media presence, and if you have one your LinkedIn profile, do not compromise your application

Step 2 First Impressions are important – True or False?

True!

Your CV and cover letter must represent you as the ideal candidate. However, the detail must be engaging, accurate and genuine. Having successfully been invited to an interview, preparation, appearance, confidence and tone of voice are critical factors. Knowing and reflecting the company’s ethos and culture (eg dress code) are important criteria.

Practice what you plan to say, record and play it back, does it sound right and put across the key points?

Step 3 Preparation is vital and essential, in other words do your homework!

Substance is far more valuable than style. How much do you know about the company, its key personnel, its products or services, its market and competitors?

Do they have a demonstrated corporate social responsibility?

Most importantly properly understand the role for which you have applied.

There is so much information now readily available on line that there is no excuse for not being fully prepared, not just to answer questions but to also have questions of your own.

If you have an interview coming up and would welcome some expert guidance get in touch.

If you have been successful, congratulations! If not, ask for feedback, it will help you with your next application.

Look out for Part 2