Selling Yourself
Write your Resume
Before you start to look 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 other educational studies and information on any previous or current 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.
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 been successfully in gaining 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, 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 journey, to ensure that you get to the interview on time. You may want 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 should also take another copy for the interviewer (just in case)
- Wear appropriate clothing for the position in which you are being interviewed. If in doubt, ring the employer beforehand
- 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 for 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 interviewer a firm hand shake
After the Interview:
- You may want to 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 the employer for feedback. This will help you improve your skills for future interviews