Selling Yourself
This page is divided into four sections:
Resume
Before you start looking for an employer, it is important that you write or update your resume. Your resume should be no more than two pages and should provide the prospective employer with information about yourself, your school or further educational studies and information on any previous jobs you may have had.
A good resume is an essential tool for 'selling yourself' to potential employers. Your resume represents who you are in terms of the job you are applying for and provides you with your best opportunity for gaining an interview.
For a sample resume click here
Cover Letter
When preparing your resume, it is also important that you include a covering letter. A cover letter provides a summary of the reasons why you are the best candidate for the position and hopefully makes the reader want to read more about you in your resume and to get you in for an interview. Make sure you address the letter to the person who is responsible for employment within the organisation, including their full name and job title. Remember that you are trying to sell your services to that employer, so state why you think that employer should consider you for the position.
Sample cover letter click here
The Interview
Once you have successfully gained an interview, it is important that you prepare for the interview process itself.
Before you begin the interview:
- Undertake some basic background research on the company. This will not only help build your confidence in the business you are applying to, but it will show the employer that you are genuinely interested and enthusiastic about working for them
- Prepare a list of intelligent questions which you can ask the interviewer
- Make sure that you have planned out your journey, to ensure that you get to the interview on time. It is a good idea to map out your trip the day before and aim to arrive at least 15 minutes before the interview commences.
During the interview:
- Take a copy of your full resume (including certificates etc) and your application letter. You may want to also take another copy for the interviewer to keep, just in case
- Wear appropriate clothing for the position in which you are being interviewed for. If in doubt, ring the employer before hand to find out the standard of dress that is expected
- First impressions are everything, so make sure you smile and give a firm hand shake. Be positive, ask lots questions and show your enthusiasm for the job and the company to which you are applying
- Think carefully about the questions before you answer them and make sure you speak clearly and look the interviewer in the eye
- Once you have finished the interview, make sure you thank them for their time and again give the interview a firm hand shake
After the Interview:
- Follow up the interview by writing a brief note to the employer thanking them for their time
- If you don't get the job, ask for feedback. This will help you improve your skills for future interviews
Starting your apprenticeship or traineeship
Congratulations if you have reached this stage in successfully gaining an apprenticeship or traineeship position. Once you have accepted the position, your employer will need to contact Queensland Apprenticeship Services, to arrange for one of our experienced Field Officers to come out and sign you up to the apprenticeship or traineeship contract, including lodging the paperwork and processing your employers claim for Australian Government Incentives.
Our friendly and helpful staff will be able to answer any questions you and your employer have regarding the apprenticeship or traineeship and will be available to assist you throughout the process.