3 minute read
An Essential Guide for Job Seekers
Chances are that if you’ve spotted a great job opportunity, so have hundreds of others. So don’t rush to get your application in – take the time to think about what you’re sending and make sure it’s as informative and eloquent as it can be. And, if you get through to the next stage, we hope the checklist below will help you stand out from the crowd.
General
If you’ve arranged to speak to someone, make sure you phone at the agreed time. It’s ok to email ahead of the appointment to change the day or time, or even to cancel, but forgetting or ignoring the call is not acceptable.
Don’t make calls walking along the street or while travelling. Find somewhere quiet where you can prepare and concentrate.
Your tone should be friendly but courteous. Never make the mistake of being overly familiar – it is better to be more formal than treat someone like a friend.
On application forms, only provide what has been requested, for example, if they ask for hobbies relevant to the job, don’t just list random interests.
Read questions carefully.
Your profile should be complete but succinct. Make sure the dates add up.
It’s fine to include your photo but look professional.
Make sure you maximise the number of connections you have, including friends and family.
Remember that LinkedIn is a business platform, not social media.
CVs
Photographs are generally considered a distraction, and can lead to preconceptions, so best avoided.
Work experience should be presented with the most recent at the top. Try to ensure there are no unexplained gaps.
Keep it brief. Distil down the information to what’s important and relevant to the job you are applying for.
You should take the time to tailor your CV for every application. Researching the company should give you key words that they may be looking for.
Don’t be tempted to make things up. These days information is easy to check.
Double-check spelling and grammar –getting someone else to proofread it is always a good idea.
Interviews
Plan your journey so you know exactly where you’re going and how to get there.
Make sure your hair and nails are clean and you dress appropriately. Shoes should also be clean and not trainers.
Don’t be late. In fact, arrive slightly early so you have time to make yourself known to the reception team. And breathe.
Take a clean copy of your CV as back up.
Do plenty of research beforehand –about the company and who you’re meeting.
Think about the questions you might be asked and how you will answer.
When you meet the interviewer(s) shake their hand and look them in the eye.
Don’t be afraid to pause before answering a question – better to reply in a composed manner than to gabble.
Have questions prepared to ask your interviewer(s).
After your interview send a brief email or handwritten note of thanks to the person who interviewed you.
There’s a lot to think about when preparing for job applications and interviews and the OU School for Life team is here to assist. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if you need help editing your CV, polishing your LinkedIn profile or fine-tuning your interview skills.
Additionally, through the extensive OU network, we can facilitate connections that offer support, advice, industry knowledge and a guide to best practice.
