Tips & Advice

A lasting first impression can be the difference when applying for a position

Perfect your resume

A lasting first impression can be the difference when applying for a position. So it is vitally important that your resume is as strong as it can be. A professional and concise resume effectively communicates the positive difference and approach you bring to the job you are applying for.

Resume tips and advice

Ensure the layout and design of your resume in simple and easy to follow with clear headings.

Write in clear and concise terms ensuring that your resume is presented in a neat and simple manner. Avoid the use of creative fonts and different colours.

Identify your skills and abilities in a concise manner while also directing your resume towards specific achievements rather than your duties in previous work environments.

Be specific in your achievements and use statistic (if available) to illustrate your previous success.

When completing a video resume, ensure you present yourself in a neat manner and are fully prepared, so you remain confident throughout the video.

Keep a copy of your resume available so you are able to present yourself when an inquiry or opportunity arises.

Resume templates are available online for more details on how to present your resume.

Writing your cover letter

Writing a good cover letter is vitally important due to the fact that it gives a potential employer deeper insight into you (as a potential employee) and your motivations and aspirations.

• Your cover letter should only be approximately one page long and no longer
• Keep it specific to the job you are applying for, addressing it to the potential employer of the specific position you are applying for
• Your cover letter should be written with a positive approach and should clearly highlight how you fit the position you are applying for, as well as your future aspirations through the position.
• Carefully check for spelling and grammatical errors before handing in or sending your cover letter.

Interview preparation guide

Preparation is the best solution to ensure you perform at your best when seeking a position. Some key skills when preparing for an interview include:

• Thoroughly knowing the position you are applying for
• Ensuring you know your resume thoroughly and are able to communicate all aspects of it to the interviewer
• Practising to remain confident when speaking to the interviewer

Interviewing

Thoroughly understanding the position you are applying for as well as the organisation will greatly improve your chances of performing well during an interview.

Ensure that you dress conservatively and to match the position you are applying for.

Make sure you know where you're going and what time the interview is. Also, ensure that you are on time or early to the interview.

Be prepared to communicate your skills and abilities, why you would suit this position and what sets you apart from other candidates that may be applying for the position.

Ensure you prepare any questions you may have for the interviewer about the position or organisation. While the employer will determine if you are right for the job, you must also determine if the organisation is right for you.

Refresh your memory on all aspects of your resume such as previous employers and experience, so you are able to effectively communicate them to the interviewer.

Consider contracting

Many organisations identify temporary workers and contractors to be a critical part of their workplace. In order to meet opportunities created by things such as increased project work or periods of peak demand, organisations heavily rely on temporary workers and contractors.

Contracting is the preferred choice for many job seekers and offers some great benefits including increased flexibility in a job and greater opportunity for experience.

Tips and Advice

• Make your consultant your primary contact, even after you have secured a position, as this ensures we can track your availability and help you secure another role, should the need arise.
• If you have any problems with your new workplace or role, let your consultant and your supervisor know immediately.
• Ensure you understand the terms covering your contract or temporary assignments. If you have any questions or queries ask a consultant or your supervisor
• Take note of your job description and tasks performed for each assignment, as you may need to update your resume several times and may not remember all of your duties from each assignment undertaken.
• Be professional, positive and flexible in your approach to your work.