CVs and Interviews

I have outlined some useful CV & Interview articles below. If you are sick of reader and want to take some positive action contact CV & INTERVIEW SERVICE IRELAND now for more information.

Phone Interview Preparation Tips
Interview Cheat to give you the edge
CV Writing & CV Preparation

CV Writing
Are you struggling to land interview?
Do you feel that your CV is not doing the job?
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Interview Preparation
Do you struggle to sell yourself at interview? Do you suffer from interview nerves?
Do you lack the knowledge about how to prepare for interview?
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Below is the video for the Monster Careers Fair at the RDS on 12th November. This was a very successful day with great feedback from jobseekers. I presented at the event and you can hear some of my views on CV Writing during the video.

Why am I not receiving more interviews from my CV?

Failure to secure interviews can mean you are targeting the wrong jobs or your marketing material (CV, Cover Letter & LI profile) is not making an impact. There is also the added dimension in this market place in that there is more competition for fewer jobs.

If you are targeting jobs where you lack the qualifications or experience you really are going to struggle. I am not saying it is impossible but it will certainly be hard work. This situation requires a more creative approach.

If you have not invested time and effort into your marketing material you will also struggle to land interviews. Remember for more impact you need to have targeted contact with quantifiable data and achievements.

There are fewer jobs and greater competition. If you are targeting advertised jobs then you are going to hit traffic. Perhaps you should change direction onto the back roads (hidden job market) as most jobseekers won’t go there.

Final point – I think that many jobseekers put too much emphasis on the CV (a requirement for the traditional route to job hunting). It is possible to secure an interview and a job without a CV.

Careers, Outplacement, CVs & Interviews Ireland

Do you need a CV to get a job?

I received a message from a friend while on holidays in Portugal (4 weeks ago). My friend requested help with a CV and I arranged to call when I returned home. I arrived home to a desk full of work and totally forgot about things. The following weekend I remembered and called him to request he email me on his basic details to get things started.

Two weeks passed before I received the email with basic employment and education details and arranged to start work the following Monday (26th Sept). I had assumed that he was in no great panic about finding a new job due to the lack of urgency.

I missed his call on Monday and returned it midday Tuesday (27th Sept). We got talking and I was just about to get down to business when he stopped me. He said that he would save me some time as he was offered a job last night and didn’t need a CV.

WOW – someone who got a job without a CV.

How did he do it?

He worked in accounting and when informed about his job loss he made immediate contact with the company auditor, his old work colleagues and friends from his course in college. The owner of the auditor firm phoned him on Monday to arrange a meeting that evening and offered him a job. I assumed that he was doing nothing due to his lack of urgency in getting me the details to start the CV BUT he was actually beavering away through networking. He didn’t let the fact that he had no CV stop him getting a job.

What lessons can we learn?

1. This job was not advertised! – There are other accounting professionals looking for a job who would never have found out about this one.

2. Proactive Job Hunting – Networking uncovers hidden gems and when you find them you have little competition.

3. You can secure a job without a CV – Yes I agree that CVs are important BUT remember you are your walking talking CV.

CV Ireland – Do you need a CV or Do you want to get a JOB?

Interview Tips & Linkedin Tips

A regularly answer career, CV and interview questions on Linkedin. Below is an article I contributed to along with a number of other professionals. Resumark constructed the article using our answers to a Linkedin question about interviewing. You should find the article very useful. Another more important lesson that you should take away is the importance of visibility online utilising tools like Linkedin.

Going through a job interview is usually the most stressful part of a job search process. It may help to prepare for an interview if you understand how employers look at job candidates and their way of thinking. To help us with that we’ve asked seasoned hiring managers and professionals in the industry to describe how they rate job candidates and list some of the things they pay attention to when interviewing. Here is what they’ve shared with us:

1. For most employers the most important objective of an interview is to verify that you are who you say you are in your resume. After all, if they invited you for an interview – this means they like your resume. Now it is your turn to show that you are the worker described in the resume – the qualities, the experience, and accomplishments must all match the face the employer sees. As Marjorie Kavanagh, president of Panoramic Resumes has described: “I’ve had candidates whose faces have gone blank when asked a question about something on their resume. When I reference the information from their resumes, their responses have been, “Oh, my girlfriend (insert anyone else here) wrote my resume.” Most employers don’t really care who wrote the resume but if your name is on it and you can’t back it up – this may be it for you.

2. Interview is all about presentation and you are on the spot. Interviewers will look at how you are dressed, your manners, how confident your handshake is, eye contact, etc. Their job is to evaluate you from a professional standpoint but also understand that the personal impression has a huge influence. If they don’t like something about you personally, chances are they will not like you professionally either.

3. Many employers look for signs and qualities during the interview that cannot be put in a resume. They will analyze your critical thinking ability, thought process, ability to handle difficult situations, communications skills, work ethic, etc. Keep that in mind throughout the interview.

4. There are also things that could negatively influence employer’s decision right way. If they catch you lying – you are out. Some things may work against you in the longer run when compared to other candidates: poor listener, inability to convey understanding of the job, unfamiliar with the company culture, had not questions about the job, does not fully understand the responsibilities, etc.

5. If an interviewer has specific concerns they will most likely focus on that issue. Chances are if they like the answer, they will move on but if they don’t they will “dig deeper”. Repetitive questions may mean that they haven’t received the answer they wanted to hear and this should be a red flag that you haven’t given the “right” answer.

6. Don’t be nervous. It is easier said than done but it is very important. If you are nervous, some interviewers will look for a reason to why and their conclusions may be unfavorable to you. If you are nervous and you are having a hard time, it is best to admit to it and explain why you are nervous. Many professional interviewers will relate to that and will try to help you by adjusting the atmosphere to more casual and relaxed. Turning an interview into a conversation (rather than question-answer session) always help. Regardless of how nervous you are, always try to be your best professional, well mannered, polite and communicative.

7. Always come prepared. Make sure you understand the job and the company to the best of your ability. Do research on the Internet. Read things like corporate mission statements and messages from the CEO/President. This will help you understand the company culture better. Also, come prepared with questions about the job and responsibilities. Finally, prepare a list of things that you want the employer to know about you and gently weave them into the conversation.

8. For most employers it comes down to two questions: A) do you have the skills/experience required for job? B) Will you fit into the existing team/structure? During your interview they must have a solid “Yes” answer for both of these questions. It is your job to convince them of that. You should actually bring this up if the employer doesn’t explicitly cover it. Employers will listen carefully to you explaining why you think you have the skills for the job or how you would fit in. These are two questions that ALL interviewers are guaranteed to have on their mind.

9. Don’t expect all interviews to be the same. Keep in mind that each job has different requirements, each company’s culture is different and finally, interviewers are different people, too. It is impossible to foresee all possible questions but the best way to prepare is always by researching the position. “What are the requirements? Do you have the technical, transferable, and adaptive skills required? Research the company. Is it a company for which you’d like to work? Are you motivated to do the job? And know yourself. What are your strengths and weaknesses?” –Having answers in mind to these questions, as recommended by Bob McIntosh – an experienced innovative career trainer, is the best way to prepare.

10. Listen carefully to questions asked and respond accordingly. Many employers rate job candidates on their ability to listen. “Too many candidates have their own agendas. They barely listen to what’s being said, don’t answer the question, then go back to their own agenda – what they want from the position. Individuals who have a sense of entitlement, either to the job or perks, don’t go far. I’m interested in what the candidate can bring to the position.” Says Darlene Zambruski, Managing Editor at ResumeEdge.com.

We would like to extend our thanks to the LinkedIn community with the help in putting together this article, and especially to Marjorie Kavanagh, Bob McIntosh, Darlene Zambruski, Paul Mullan, Eugene Fridman, Abdul Rahim Hasan, and others.

INTERVIEW COACHING IRELAND

How important is the visual appearance of your CV?

I believe there are 3 key ingredients to an impact CV – Content, Information Positioning and Visual Appearance. I rank Visual Appearance number 3 and least important of the 3 points. Content is number 1 and information positioning is number 2.

CV Writing – What do I mean by content?

“It’s amazing the difference words make. I feel so confident looking over my CV and I hardly even recognise myself”. This is a testimonial for one jobseeker I reworked a CV for. I have hundreds of testimonials but the above words stand out. CV content is critical and without doubt the most important aspect of CV writing. Unfortunately most jobseekers fail with content on three key points. (a) They write a CV about themselves focusing on information that they think is important and ignore the employer. Tip: Embrace the potential reader and their requirements. Your CV is a marketing document focused on the reader. (b) They “can’t see the wood for the trees” and are unable to communicate duties and responsibilities which minimises ability to sell themselves. Tip: If you are having difficulty outlining duties and responsibilities then brainstorm with some friends or cheat and review descriptions of similar jobs online (c) They fail to breathe life into their CV with facts, examples and achievements. Tip: If you “talk the talk” you must “walk the walk”. Helping paint a picture for the reader will help your CV stand out.

CV Writing – What do I mean by information positioning?

There are mixed messages on the topic of CV layout/format. Most CV “experts” will tell you exactly what information your CV should contain and in what order it should be found on the document. Much of this information is stiff and dated. A CV is a fluid document and should not be tied to a rigid layout. CV’s are similar to newspapers and the important headlines have to make the first page. I have created a CV with References on the first page and another CV with Hobbies & Interests on the first page. Why? Because it was relevant information to help sell the jobseekers for that particular role. Never leave it to chance that the reader will progress to the second page of your CV. More than likely they will have made a decision as to your suitability for interview before they get to the end of the first page.

CV Writing – What do I mean by visual appearance?

Quite simply this means that your CV is easy on the reader’s eye. Visual appearance does not rank as my number one priority but it cannot be ignored. I am a fan of the “Clean & Simple” CV. I believe that you can still produce a professional document without the bells and whistles. There is nothing too complex here – white space, clear headings, bullet points, uniformity of font type and size. Effective visual appearance does not have to mean fancy font or coloured paper.

Quite often jobseekers want a CV that looks good but has no substance. They focus on what the CV looks like rather than what it says. If your strategy is to land interviews through quirky CV design you might have an extended time period in the job market. Your CV may stand out visually from the others in the pile but will hit the bin when read. Change your focus now with the following tips:

1. Ensure your content packs punch and integrates quantifiable facts and figures. This will make a greater impression on the reader.
2. Ensure any relevant information make front page headlines. If it doesn’t make front page it might not get read.
3. Keep the layout and design of your CV clean and simple. Fancy designs might get you noticed but won’t get you the interview unless there is substance to match.

CV Writing Service Ireland

The Job Hunting Blame Game …..

As the economy continues to tighten we are all looking for someone or something to blame for or situation or woes. This is no different when job hunting. I regularly work with jobseekers who can list out many factors to blame while they themselves come out unscathed.

Top of the blame game hit list are the poor old recruitment agencies. I worked in the sector a number of years back and had my own agency so I have a good insight into the sector. I know there are some cowboys out there but equally there are many good recruiters. The fact remains they are not the reason why you can’t change jobs or can’t find a job. And another point blaming recruiters won’t get you a job!!

How to manage a recruiter

Below are some pointers but there are more ……

Firstly manage your expectations. This is a free service so expect to get what you pay for – nothing. Anything above this will be a bonus.

Recruiters are not there to offer career advice – they put bums on seats. Having said this you may meet a nice recruiter will to help – again remember these are sales guys and gals.

In this market don’t expect a response to your email or phone call. Recruiters are coming down with paper. They don’t have time to talk to you if you do not represent $$$. Believe me if you are hot property you will know!!

Try to make contact with the recruiter but again remember previous point. A good way to get contact is via an open vacancy that you could fill. Speculative CVs are a bit of a waste of time in this market. You could also make contact via referrals.

If you do get to meet or talk to a recruiter it is up to you to maintain the communication and manage the relationship. Again these guys and gals are extremely busy. They are frantically trying to source new jobs in order to place you. They don’t have time to call you up to tell you nothing. You have to stay in touch BUT avoid stalking.

Be good to recruiters and they will be good to you.

STOP BLAMING as it won’t help you find a new job!! Are you really doing everything you can? From experience working with many jobseekers most are not.

Measurability for Job Hunting Staregies, CV Writing & Interview Coaching.

You can now following me on Twitter. Been up there a while but have not really had time to use it properly. My new resolution is to find the time.

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CVs and Interview helping jobseekers in Ireland with CV & Interview advice and Jobs News.

p.s – Careers & Jobs posts all the latest jobs news in Ireland

I reviewed a CV WRITING article on IRISHJOBS website today titled “EIGHT EASY STEPS TO A PERFECT CV”. After reading this article I would say that it should be titled “EIGHT EASY STEPS TO A CV FAILURE”. Ok there were a few valid points but more schoolboy errors. Below are the eight steps outlined and my comments. Obviously you will take what I have to say on board

1. Include the following sections, and preferably in the following order: – Personal Details, Personal Profile, Education and Qualifications, Any other relevant qualifications, Employment History & References

Yes you will have these sections on your CV but I totally disagree with the fact that the layout must follow the exact order outlined above. Let’s say you were applying for a sales job in the pharmaceutical sector. The job description asks for 10 years Pharmaceutical sales experience and a Degree in Chemistry. You have the 10 years relevant experience BUT only a Diploma in Chemistry. Why would you place your qualifications at the top of your CV? I would rather let the hiring manager read about my excellent experience before they realise I don’t meet educational requirements. The above point is what text books will tell you about CVs BUT reality is very different. You need to get the relevant info onto the first page of your CV an tying yourself to rigid rules as outlined in point one will not enable you to do this.

2. Ensure your CV is concise, preferably no more than 2 A4 pages

I agree in principle but have a funny story. Back in 1997 I worked in recruitment and this was era before email when we used fax to send CVs. A candidate sent me a 9 page CV and I politely told I him it was cr*p. Due to time pressure I submitted CV as was and he got an interview with the company. I phoned him after interview seeking feedback and he proceeded to tell me that the hiring manager told him he loved the CV. Egg and Face. Generally it is expected that CVs will range between 1-3 pages but I always tell jobseekers if their first page does not make an impact forget about the rest!!

3. Choose your words carefully to provide maximum impact – especially in your personal profile where you really need to highlight your skills and knowledge.

This is true and a valid point. I don’t like this whole idea of a “profile” and personally lean towards a targeted value statement. Yes words can make an impact BUT not as much as quantifiable data such as achievements and results.

4. List your Employment History with the most recent job first.

No No No!! – This is text book stuff and again it will limit your ability to market yourself effectively. I have written CV’s that have thrown this rule out of the window. Remember my point that if it doesn’t make first page it may not get read. If your work experience is most relevant let the chronological rule force you to place it towards the end of your CV.

5. If you do not have any work experience then substitute this section for, ‘Personal Successes’ and describe your achievements and the skills required e.g. voluntary work or sporting achievements.

Good point – It is essential to get relevant information, skills and competencies across to the reader.

6. Make sure your CV is tailored to suit each job you are applying for, focusing your attention on the skills that job specifically requires.

True!!

7. Do not include any clip art or photographs.

Again 99.9% of the time I would agree BUT there was one occasion when I did put a picture on a CV but there was a valid reason for doing this.

8. Check your CV to make sure there are no spelling mistakes or grammatical errors.

YES U SHUD CHEK UR SELLINS AND GRAMMMER.

Measurability — CV Writing Service delivering Interviews and Interview Coaching delivering job offers.

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