Writing a CV
Do
- Give examples of when you used each skill you say that you have
- After checking for spelling mistakes, get someone else to double-check
- Use good quality A4 white paper when printing and copying your CV
- Sell yourself! The other job applicants will, so you should do also.
Don't
- Use more than three sides of paper - the recruiter may be viewing hundreds of CVs so keep it brief
- Give information that is not releveant - your points should relate to the given job specification in some way
- Fold a printed CV - it will look more professional if received uncreased in an A4 envelope
- Lie or over exaggerate about your abilities or achievements - you will get caught out...eventually.
Preparing for interview
Do
- Find out as much as you can about the organisation and the team you would be working with
- Practice answering interview questions - get a friend, relative or careers advisor to help you
- Make sure you know how to get to the interview - check transport routes and street maps in advance
- Prepare questions for the interviewer that show you are interested in the organisation
- Look after yourself - eat well and get enough sleep.
Don't
- Drink alcohol on the night before or the day of the interview
- Eat food with a strong odour e.g. fish or garlic
- Wear too much perfume or too much scented products
- Leave preparation to the last minute - you will be more likely to panic and flustered
- Be late - remember, first impressions last the longest.
At the interview
Do
- Smile
- Answer questions fully
- Develop rapport with the interviewer
- Ask questions.
Don't
- Tell jokes - people have different senses of humour
- Lie or over exaggerate about your abilities or achievements - you will get caught out...eventually
- Don't bad mouth other people or past colleagues - even if they are truly terrible
- Accept alcohol or cigarettes even if offered - limit the chances of things going wrong e.g. getting drunk or causing a cigarette burn.
