Support and Information from wrinklies DIRECT
CANDIDATE SUPPORT:
Hints & Tips
Applying for the job Stage 1
Amended: November 2015
You need to understand…
Busy recruiters are unlikely to spend more than 30 seconds scanning a
CV to decide "is this person worth interviewing?"
To increase
your chances of selection, you must tailor your CV to emphasize your
skills and knowledge to match the job requirements.
Some basic truths…
The employer is the buyer. You
are the salesman. Your product is you
the CV is your
sales literature, the interview your sales call.
People buy from people they like!
Some basic principles…
Adopt a positive mental attitude
“which job
shall I apply for” NOT “how am I going to find a job at my
age?”
And when you find an opportunity make sure you understand your
prospect’s needs
research the
company and job
Why should they choose you?
Be specific
Use a ‘power letter’ and customize your
CV to meet the employer’s need.
The ‘Power’ Letter
The purpose is to ensure the recruiter reads your CV, so spend time on
it.
Make the letter one page,
factual and tailored
to the job
Research the company,
product and market to enhance your application,
this shows
interest in them and initiative by you.
Ensure the letter is clearly and logically presented and addressed
correctly to the relevant person – not always HR.
Avoid clichés, jokes and sounding
arrogant.
State the job applied for/where
advertised and include any reference numbers.
Be courteous and confident,
use positive statements. For example
"Your
requirement for a ........ is an ideal match for my ..x… year’s commercial experience with…………… ".
If someone referred you, mention
them by name in the opening paragraph.
Don't over-use the word 'I'.
Explain how you will benefit the company, not how the job would benefit you
Build on your CV. If the job is in a different sector, demonstrate
links between the two.
Remember, this is part of your 'sales
literature'.
Provide contact numbers,
times/dates when you will be unavailable for calls/interview.
Check for spelling and
grammar or even better, get someone else to do this - and keep a copy for your
reference.
Don’t rely on computer spellchecker
End on a positive note, if you
say you will follow up with a call to answer any questions they may have, do
so!
FOR HINTS AND
TIPS ON NEXT STAGE CLICK HERE
Contact: Mike Saunders at experience@wrinkliesdirect.co.uk
Recruitment agency providing people with
experience and knowledge