It’s 2013 and I don’t think that the world is going to end again this year. Though it’s an unlucky number for some, the global economy seems to have dodged another bullet, or perhaps it’s a debt seeking missile and although its missed for now it’s sure to lock back on again soon, bygones.  The one thing is that so far its been a lucky year.

As is at the beginning of a new year, the job market is often flooded with school-leavers looking for work. A single job may attract scores of applicants; so standing out from the crowd can be the greatest challenge.

But your one who prefers to blend in, so what to do?

Or perhaps you’ve always wanted to shine but have not been quite sure how?

That’s ok because we have successful strategies that can be learnt if you’re new to job-hunting.

 Writing your resume

Your resume must be informative, of course your future employers will be looking for great content but don’t forget your dealing with a human.

• So make sure that it is congruent with your personality, bring some of you on to the page and humanise it.
• Make sure its readable, that you have used correct spelling and grammar
• You don’t dress in mockies and jeans with holes so don’t forget the layout, make sure it is clear and aesthetically pleasing.

For a fee, you can engage a professional resume writer, or alternatively, Career One offers online resources to assist you in writing your own. For further information, go to www.careerone.com.au

Preparing for your interview

Before the interview, research the company and find out as much as you can. Interviewers will be interested to know that you’re keen to learn about the organisation.

Questions are your Key to peek their curiosity. I cannot tell you how many candidates I have interviewed over the year. But I can tell you that the standouts asked great questions of us. It changes the dynamics of the interview. Do be arrogant and ask, whens my first pay rise!  Instead ask them questions around:

1. The culture of the organisation
2. Where the company is heading
3. What they are looking for in a candidate (I know so simple, more often than not if you simply ask for the kits to the kingdom they will deliver it to you)

Your smart imp sure you get the point. Remember that laser-guided question will demonstrate you’re assertive and show your looking for the right fit for you, this is a very attractive trait for an interviewer.

And the common sense that is now starting to become far less common.

For the interview, remove piercings that may be inappropriate and dress professionally – preferably in a business suit. Style your hair conservatively and keep personal fashion statements for social occasions. Women should try not to wear heavy makeup. Smokers should avoid having a cigarette before the interview.

Attending the interview

A survey conducted by Forbes.com found that job seekers often found success when applying to companies for which they had genuine interest because their passion during the interview was authentic.

The interviewer will ask about experience demonstrating your ability to perform the job. Even if this is your first job, life experiences at school, playing sport or in community groups can display your capability and skills.

Relax and answer truthfully – questions are not designed to catch you out. One trick I learn to keep it relaxed and honest is to answer your questions in story form, short concise stories drawing from your life. So long as there is a challenge and a result that is in line with the questions you will find that its resinates more strongly that a quick fire direct answer. T will also give you time to think.

If you’re initially unsuccessful, don’t become disheartened. Perhaps consider a short course on interview skills.

There are also many online resources to help job seekers. For example, www.careerone.com.au has videos to help you prepare for the interview and www.cae.edu.au offers courses on interview techniques.

Potential employers want to know about you, so learn to talk about yourself – this is your chance to shine!

All the best,

Andy Fenton

Financial Specialist

http://morningtonfs.com.au Financial Planners

Mornington Financial Standing out from the crowd

http://andydfenton.com.au

Sources:

www.forbes.com. 10 job hunting tips from people who found jobs Helen Coster & Seth Cline (23 June 2010)

www.careerone.com.au Resumes (Last updated Nov 2012)

www.cae.edu.au Short Course Guide (Spring 2012)