Tools & Tips

The Killer CV

Employers and recruiters are busy people. When a role is advertised, thousands of people might apply. That’s why it’s important that your CV stands out (no, not with coloured paper and glittery pens) from the rest by being straight to the point and as concise as possible.

Tailor your CV for the job you’re applying for; one size doesn’t fit all. You’re experience working as a gardener when you were 14 years old isn’t relevant to the sales manager role you’re applying for today. So leave it off. Don’t leave gaps in your CV, people do check these things.

Employers don’t want to hear about your every achievement since Girl Guides or Boy Scouts. Be selective and ask yourself: “Is this relevant?” As for hobbies and interests, keep them snappy and current.

Be honest. Don’t exaggerate your experience, don’t make up qualifications and tell it as it is; your potential employer will appreciate your honesty and your willingness to learn. Employers don’t like surprises.

List names of referees who will give your employer a thorough understanding of your professional self, and please, ask your referee for permission before you dish out his or her contact details!

Check, double check and triple check your CV for spelling and grammar mistakes. Other candidates have, so what’s your excuse? Finally, we’re living in the 21st Century, so email your CV, don’t post it or rely on a courier pigeon. Chances are, you won’t get the job.

The Killer Interview

Interviews can be daunting for the most experienced of candidates. Here are some pointers to see you impress your potential employers.

Be prepared, be punctual, dress conservatively and try to stay relaxed; the panel wants to get to know you, not a ‘better’ version of you. Consider each question, but not so much that you’re looking at the ground and saying ‘um’ and ‘ah’ every second word. Show the panel that you have respect for your colleagues and your supervisors by not bringing up what you disliked about your previous workplace.

Remember that the people interviewing you could be your future employers. Respect them. Don’t interrupt, be well-mannered, thank them for their time at the end.