Getting a job - Top Tips

Follow our guidance below for top tips on

• Producing a CV
• Filling in successful application forms
• Interview - Do's and Don'ts

You can also view Pluss' full Help with Getting a Job pack. (You can also download the word version here)

Producing a CV

 1. Produce a different version of your CV for every job you apply for, highlighting your key skills and experience most relevant to the job description and requirements.

2. Keep the layout simple and uncluttered with clear section headings and well-organised information that is easy to follow.

3. Always word process your CV and print on to good quality A4 paper.

4. Don’t use more than 2 sides of A4 paper. Employers are most interested in your recent experience particularly your current or last job. Therefore include more information about your responsibilities and achievements for these jobs and less detail for earlier jobs.

5. Never lie on a CV.

6. Only include information that is relevant to your application. You don’t need to put your marital status or family details unless specifically asked for.

7. Don’t include a photo unless requested.

8. Your CV should show a continuous history for you from the end of secondary school to date. You should therefore explain any gaps including time spent travelling, bringing up a family or not employed.

9. For periods of time not in paid employment highlight any voluntary work, training or activities that you did. Include achievements in and out of work and quantify them whenever possible.

10. Be honest about any hobbies or interests you include – don’t add things to impress as you many get caught out at interview. Don’t forget to include clubs, societies or voluntary work that you have been involved with – these can make a really positive contribution to a CV.

Successful Application forms

1. Complete your form in plenty of time – don’t do it the night before the deadline!

2. Read everything you can about the job & company. Also, read the form carefully before starting and note instructions.

3. Have a copy of your CV, the job advert and job description handy for reference.

4. Photocopy the original form. You can then make any mistakes on a draft version where it doesn’t matter. Write in pencil on the draft so you can correct your mistakes or try different things. Only complete the original form when you are certain every detail is correct.

5. Write neatly and clearly – block capitals are often best. Be concise and avoid repetition.

6. Answer every question. If the question does not apply to you, write ‘Not Applicable’ or N/A.

7. Address the points that are outlined in the person specification – this is what the employer is looking for.

8. If you need more space, use a separate sheet of paper and write ‘continued on an additional sheet’, on the form. Label the separate sheets according to instructions or with your name and post applied for.

9. Keep a copy of your completed application form for yourself. It will help you prepare for an interview and save time when filling in other application forms.

10. Check the form thoroughly and don’t forget to sign and date it. Don’t forget to include any additional information or certificates which are requested.

11. Put the form and covering letter unfolded in an A4 envelope and make sure you post or deliver it in time to meet the deadline.

Interviews - Do's and Donts

Do
- Enter the room confidently.
- Shake hands firmly and introduce yourself.
- Smile!
- Be polite and friendly – look the interviewer in the eye as soon as you enter the room.
- Check that it is ok to use notes or cue cards during the interview.
- Try to maintain eye contact with the person or people you are talking to.
- Look interested, and ask questions as well as answering.
- Answer questions as fully as you can, avoid just saying ‘yes’ or ‘no’.
- Provide examples to prove your skills and achievements.
- Tell the truth.
- Ask if you don’t understand a question.
- Speak clearly.
- Sell yourself – get your good points across and be positive.

Don’t
- Sit down until the interviewer asks you to.
- Fidget, slouch in the chair or fold your arms.
- Swear (even mildly)
- Criticise your past employers.
- Interrupt.
- Draw attention to your weaknesses.
- Lie or be too enthusiastic. Stay calm and stick to the facts.

Most employers like people who listen, answer questions with examples, keep to the point, come prepared and appear confident!