How to get that job

Its the time of year where people look for fresh faces or maybe you just needed a change. Either way you're back on the market for a new job. Here is a quick step by step on how to get it.

CV:

Keep in mind that on paper is the first place you look good. So when writing up your CV check spelling and punctuation carefully. Make your point. Don't babble on about how you babysat for the president once. Your CV should be no more than 2 or 3 pages maximum and cut out any unnecessary or out of date items. Get a friend or relative to give it the once over too. They might find things you have missed or have ideas on how to spice it up.

When taking in a CV to the place of work, have it printed on plain white paper. Having it printed on rose scented pink recycled paper ala Legally Blonde might confuse the message you want to give. Which should be "I am a professional and the best person for this job".

If emailing your CV you should have the cover letter as the body of the email and your CV attached. REMEMBER TO ATTACH IT!! I cant count the number of jobs I've missed out on because I forgot to attach the most important part.

Cover Letter:

Your cover letter should state 3 things; what the job is (including where you saw it advertised and what date), your previous experience and why you think you'd be the best for the job. Remember, you are the best! If you 'umm' and 'err' yourself you wont be hired. People want to hire confident employees who can hold their own. Not who cant even ace the entry. Just remember to stay concise and to the point.

"The Call":

In the weeks after you've sent your CV out into the world of job vacancies try to answer your phone more professionally. If you have caller ID and you don't recognise the number, answer it as "Hello, blahblah speaking", rather then 'hi'. It may seem a little OCD to go this far but it really depends on the job you're going for. If you're going for an EA position at BHP you might wanna step it up a notch.

The Interview:

First of all, dressing for the interview should be the easy bit. Don't turn up in everyday wear. Not jeans and a brightly colored t shirt with Mickey mouse on, it wont get you anything but put in the loony bin. Dress like the job is already yours. If you're stuck for ideas remember this easy combination; white blouse + pencil skirt + black flats/heels. Throw in some nice simple jewelry, natural makeup and a neat ponytail or bun and voila! You got it! Remember you need to wear a blouse that covers your shoulders. Keep it conservative.

You should definitely *not* go drinking the night before. You want to look fresh faced and bubbly, ready for anything! Have a coffee before you go in, maybe go for a jog in the morning. Get that blood pumping!

During the interview remember to keep calm and collected. Your future boss might just throw you a curve ball and ask some pretty weird questions. Answer everything they ask as truthfully as possible. But keep in mind that you don't have to answer everything. If they ask you anything that makes you feel uncomfortable just let them know you aren't comfortable answering such a personal question. You don't have to be nasty about it, in fact they might like that you refused in such a polite manner! Remember to smile and try not to stutter or 'umm' anything. Go through all the questions you think they'll ask in your head beforehand and read your CV thoroughly as they may ask you to explain something from it. Remember to bring a spare copy of your CV to the interview. Just in case.

They usually ask this same question at every interview.. "Why should we give YOU the job?". The answer is simple. 'Because I believe I am the best candidate for the job and I have what it takes". Don't just say it either. Believe it! If you really want this job all that stands between you and getting it is Passion. I know I've gone into jobs knowing nothing about it and coming out better in 2 weeks than someone who's had 18 months training. Passion ladies!!

When leaving the interview, shake their hand and thank them for their time. It shows you know they're busy people and you know their time isn't worth wasting.

Happy hunting girls!

xo-xo