How to get an interview

Peter Bell • August 17, 2021

Having a desire to get the job you want is not enough on its own these days.  Thorough preparation is required in order to read and understand the person specification so that your application can be tailored to the specific job you are applying for.

Evidence your skills and qualities

Each job application should be tailored to each job applied for to emphasise that you are the right person for the job. Underline keywords describing your skills, training and experience which match with the job description. Highlight specific examples in your own career history which demonstrate you have what is required for the job.


Writing a Cover Letter

Your cover letter is an introduction to your CV and a chance to capture the attention of your reader.  It should aim to demonstrate the qualities that set you apart from other applicants.


Contents

·       Address it to the person named on the job advert

·       Quote the job title, reference number and your name in the subject header

·       Keep it to one side of A4

·       Tailor the letter to each job applied for

·       Consider how you will follow-up


Some jobs specifically request a cover letter, but most will only need your CV.


References

List the name of two referees who you know would be prepared to submit a reference for you. One should be from your most recent employer (even if it was only for part-time work during University or college vacation) and the other should be a personal referee (e.g. from a former teacher, lecturer, or family friend).  You can state on your CV to only contact your referees upon job offer. Or you can simply write ‘References are available on Request’.

Please contact Guiding Lights recruitment if you would like some help with your CV. 

 

If you need any guidance on this (or any aspect of your job search) then please get in touch with Guiding Lights Recruitment.

Beginning a new job

By Simon Blunden • August 23, 2021
Starting a new job can always be intimidating, regardless of what level or stage you are in your career. However, you should remember that you were appointed to the role as the employer believes you have the right attributes to undertake the job and the personality which fits with their culture. 

Resigning from your job

By Simon Blunden • August 23, 2021
How you go about giving your resignation can have an impact on your career. Following the normal etiquette can go a long way in helping your personal brand as your career develops, but if you approach it in the wrong way, this could affect your immediate future. For example, you will be relying on your current employer for a good reference to secure the new position or for future roles.

What to do when you receive a job offer

By Simon Blunden • August 23, 2021
Wondering what to do after the interview is over and you have been offered the job? Here are a few tips to help you make your decision 

Mastering Interview Questions

By Simon Blunden • August 23, 2021
Competency based and behavioural interview questions are aimed at finding out whether a candidate has the required skills and qualities for a job. The employer assesses if you have proven work experience and how you will apply this in the future.

Interview Preparation – Researching the Employer

By Simon Blunden • August 23, 2021
Once you have mastered the art of job application and you have been invited to an interview, do not get complacent - be prepared. Although an interview could last only 45 minutes, you need to spend more time than this looking into the background of the company to find out what you can about them.

How to produce an attractive CV

By Peter Bell • August 17, 2021
Making sure your CV is written for the role you are applying for is an absolute requirement when applying for jobs, but there are several steps you can take when writing your CV to make sure it always looks good and attractive to the employer.

How to do well in your Interview

By Peter Bell • August 17, 2021
Interviews can be very daunting, but with good preparation and planning it does not have to be such a challenge. Interviews vary from short conversations lasting a few minutes to a full-blown interview process over several stages, sometimes with more than one interviewer. You should not be afraid of the interview – be positive about the opportunity to demonstrate your strengths, abilities, and passion.