Getting the job 

Changing jobs is never easy, but it helps if you are in expert hands.  We take time to explain the process to you so you know what to expect and are fully prepared at each stage.  On this page you’ll find some guidelines to assist you, including:

  •     Writing and presenting your CV 
  •     How to handle an Interview successfully 
  •     Some Interview Dos and Don’ts. 

 

Writing Your CV – Some Guidelines to Assist

You only have one chance to make a first impression.  Quite often, that first impression is created when your CV is read by a recruitment consultant or prospective employer.  It is vitally important therefore that it should look professional, contain all the necessary information, and that the person reading it can accurately assess your abilities, qualifications and experience.

Here are a few tips that will help you to put your CV together professionally: 

  •     DO NOT use fancy fonts.  Use one that is easy-to-read, like Times New Roman or Arial. 
  •     DO NOT adorn your CV with fancy borders and cover pages.  These will irritate a busy HR professional. 
  •     CHECK YOUR SPELLING!  Careless spelling will give the impression that you are a sloppy worker. 
  •     BE CONCISE – you’re presenting facts, not writing a novel! 
  •     DO NOT include copies of certificates etc.  You will be asked for these if required. 

 

Your CV should be laid out as follows:

1. Your Personal Details 
Name 
Address 
Telephone 
Cell Phone 
Email 
ID No 
Place of Birth / Nationality / Work permit status 
Marital Status (optional) 
Children (optional) 
        
2. Education 
(Include dates and details of all qualifications) 
High School 
University 
Further Studies/Current studies 
        
3. Skills 
(eg Computer packages/any other job-related skills) 
        
4. Employment History 
(Start with the most recent job and work backwards.) 
Dates
Title 
Duties and responsibilities  (an outline of the main tasks you performed)
Reasons for leaving 
        
5. Any Professional Memberships, Notable Awards 
        
6. Interests (optional) (Give a VERY brief account of your leisure activities, sports etc) 
        
7. References 
The name, company, position and phone number of any previous employers who can be contacted for a reference.

 

How to make a Positive Impression at an interview?

Before you go:

  • Know where you’re going: 

Make sure you have the physical address, the name of the person you’re seeing, a contact number, clear directions and that you know how to get there. 

  • Do your homework: 

Find out as much as you can about the company you are going to.  
So you have time to catch your breath, focus and relax before the interview. (And to use the toilet if necessary!) 

  • Dress for success:

Rather be overdressed than underdressed.  Stick to classic styles and soft colors’.  Ladies - no miniskirts, plunging necklines or tottering heels please!  Gents - wear a tie and proper shoes, not tekkies! Be comfortable but look professional.

 

Some Do's and Don’ts:

DO!   DON’T! 
  • Refer to the interviewer by name
  • Smile and use a firm handshake
  • Maintain eye contact
  • Speak clearly and confidently
  • Look interested throughout
  • Accept refreshment if offered 
  • Promote your strengths 
  • Be honest if you cannot answer a question 
  • Speak badly about past employers / colleagues
  • Talk about money too much 
  • Fidget, bite your nails or look around the room 
  • Answer with only ‘yes’ or ‘no’
  • Act uninterested in the company or the job
  • Ask to use the toilet – you should have gone beforehand! 
  • Be too egotistical! 
  • Be defensive if challenged on a point 
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