- Tailor your resume to the role you're applying for – it is better to send out two tailored applications that address the job requirements than ten general ones.
- Use key words in your resume – increasingly, recruiters and large organisations are using specialist software to help them sort through the masses of resumes they receive. Such programs look for words and phrases commonly used by the type of candidate the employer wants.
- Always check your resume for spelling and grammar - or better yet, get someone else to check it for you. You’ll be surprised at what they pick up.
- Highlight relevant skills, strengths and achievements – highlight key skills that are relevant to the job you are applying for and leave off those that aren’t.
- Don't lie or embellish the truth - you will always get caught out and it will harm your credibility.
- Think creatively: get in front of potential employers with your own video - tech-savvy jobseekers, particularly gen Y’s, are using webcams, camera phones and online video-sharing sites to promote their talents and stand out from the crowd.
- Keep it short and sweet - don’t forget that keeping it simple is a key component of resume success. Set a two to five page limit and stick to it. Long-winded resumes that don’t get to the point increase the chances of your talents being overlooked and your resume being put in the recycle bin.
Dress for success
Looking your professional best for interviews does not happen by itself. You need to plan for interviews, budget for interviews and shop for interviews.
If what you intend to wear has been in your wardrobe for more than three years, ask yourself: “Does it make me feel and look like a million dollars?”
Research, research, research. What do the role models in the company and/or industry tend to wear? Dress not for now but for the position you want to have in five years.
- At a minimum, your dress for success wardrobe should include a well-fitting suit, an elegant top or a smart shirt, leather bag, nice folder, quality pen, simple accessories and court shoes.
- The more skin you show, the cheaper your look! Beware of plunging necklines, open-toe shoes, bare shoulders and exposed midriffs. If your skirt length is two fingers above the knee, leave it for the nightclub.
- Women who wear make-up earn 23 per cent more than those who don’t, according to research. Lipstick is a bare essential.
- Always wear pantyhose, even in summer.
- Nothing dates you quicker than old glasses. If you wear spectacles, wipe them well before the interview.
- Sweat marks, body odour, bad breath, crushed clothing, poor hygiene – these all speak louder than your resume. Don’t give them a chance.
- You can tell a professional by her hands. Visit a manicure salon or do your own. The devil is in the detail.
- Accessories are important in finishing off the look. But remember anything that dangles, moves or distracts attention in any other way is not appropriate. Less is more!
Ace the interview
Job interviews are stressful no matter how experienced you are! Here are some tips to help you ace the interview and win your dream job.
- Do your homework - Research the company and job you have applied for. Be prepared to be asked:” What do you know about Company XYZ?” Take some of the research material with you – download flyers from the company website and relevant website pages. This shows the interviewer that you have done your homework and are keen to join the company.
- Know your Resume - Learn your resume by heart and be ready to relate your experience to the requirements of the new role.
- Work on your Presentation Skills - Practice interview questions in front of a mirror. Be aware of the typical interview questions such as competency and behavioral. Don’t get caught out – think of actual examples before the interview.
- Be Punctual - Be on time for the interview...on time means five to ten minutes early. There is nothing worse than being late or too early.
- Relax! - Once you’re sitting in the interview, relax and sit up straight! Take a moment to think about the question asked – take a sip of water. Maintain eye contact and smile.
- Follow Up with a Thank You email - Always follow up the interview with a thank you note, call or email.
Good luck!