Resume Writing & Interview Tips

A resume is essentially a base document that introduces you to a potential employer. On an average, employers don’t devote more than 20-30 seconds to scan resume and hence it’s important to show them at a glance why you are the best fit. Here are some resume tips that give insight into what you should focus on:

♠ Matched to the Job Description:

Clearly demonstrate how you meet the key skills, experience and attributes the employer is looking for so that it becomes easier for the employer to match your skills and the job requirement.

♠ Quantify your Achievement:

A resume is a marketing document designed to sell your skills and strengths therefore include and highlight specific achievements that present a comprehensive picture of your marketability. Show how you contributed to the organisation; did you save money or time, exceed targets, solve problems, improve processes, or attract new customers?

♠ Structure:

Keep the layout and design legible, consistent and easy to follow, with good clear headings and a large easy-to-read typeface. Put your contact details (Name, Email, Contact No., and Address) either at the top of the resume or at the bottom. Header and footer can also be used for contact details. After this comes your career history in reverse chronological order. Include your job title, period of service and a brief description (optional) about the Company. Next, list the relevant education & professional qualification and training that you have undertaken.

♠ Reference:

You can either end your resume by naming your referees along with their Job title, contact number and Company or can also put available on request. Reference is optional.

♠ Format:

Use of proper and readable font is essential. Language should be clear and concise. Generally resume should not be longer than 2 – 3 pages.

♠ Proof Reading:

Carefully review your cover letter for flow and proper grammar. Ask others to proof read and critique it as well.

Cover Letter

It is generally the first thing a hiring manager sees, it serves as the primary enticement for him or her to read your resume. Therefore it becomes necessary to spend as much time perfecting your cover letter as you would do for your resume. A well written cover letter is an opportunity to show the reader your fitment, personality, experience and enthusiasm. Below are some important tips for writing a Cover Letter:

♠ Address to

It should be addressed to an appropriate person along with the job title, when/where you come to know about the open position and your contact details.

♠ Repetition

Format of the cover letter is very important. Avoid repeating resume in the cover letter. Cover letter and resume are separate but related documents. They should complement one another without being overly repetitive.

♠ Contents

It should begin by clearly stating why you are interested in the role. Secondly, demonstrate how your key skills, qualifications and experience can help the business meet its goals. Show how your interests and personal qualities make you the best fit for the job, and close by thanking the reader for considering your application.

♠ Length

It should not be longer than a page. Normally, 3 – 4 paragraphs are sufficient.

♠ Avoid Spelling Mistakes

Carefully review your cover letter for flow and proper grammar. Ask others to proofread and critique it as well.

Interview Tips

Research The Company

Researching the company will help you to better understand where your role fits and your knowledge will boost your credibility with the interviewer. The company website, annual report, newsletters, and media releases can provide you with valuable information on the company’s key products and services, target markets, recent events, structure, culture and future direction.

Review Job Details

Understanding of the role is very important. Carefully go through the job description. This information is useful for anticipating what you are likely to be asked, so that you can prepare relevant responses beforehand.

Practice

Practice answering interview questions and practice your responses to the typical job interview questions and answers most employers ask. Think of actual examples you can use to describe your skills. Providing evidence of your successes is a great way to promote your candidacy. Also have a list of your own questions to ask the employer ready.

Know Your Strengths & Weaknesses

The interview is your opportunity to ‘sell’ yourself, so be sure to have prepared concrete examples of what makes you special. Note down the key achievements so they are top of mind when responding to questions, and use them to demonstrate how you can meet the needs of the employer better than any other applicant. Analysis and work on your weaknesses beforehand.

Get Ready

Your appearance conveys how serious you are about the role, and how you would represent the company in the future. Be sure to dress appropriately; neat, professional and relatively conservative. Bring a nice portfolio with copies of your resume. Include a pen and paper for note taking.

Be On Time

Punctuality is a strong indicator of your professionalism and enthusiasm for the role. Confirm the time and address of the interview, research directions and aim to arrive 10 – 15 minutes early. Bring any required documentation and the phone number of the person you will be meeting with in case of an emergency. If need be, take some time to drive to the interview location ahead of time so you know exactly where you are going and how long it will take to get there.

Greet With Confidence

First impressions count. Greet your interviewer standing, with a firm handshake, good eye contact and a smile. Try to find out the name of the interviewer or the interview panel in advance. This will help you to address them correctly and make a positive impression.

Stay Calm

During the job interview try to relax and stay as calm possible. Take a moment to regroup. Maintain eye contact with the interviewer. Listen to the entire question before you answer and pay attention. Remember that both you and the interviewer want a successful outcome from the interview.

Show What You Know

Try to relate what you know about the company when answering questions. When discussing your career accomplishments match them to what the company is looking for.

Positive Last Impression

Close the interview with a handshake, a smile and a genuine thank you. A brief, friendly email thanking the interviewer for their time and consideration is often viewed positively. Restating your enthusiasm for the role could be a deciding factor as to whether you are offered the job.

Telephone Interviews

• Prepare as thoroughly as for ‘real’ interview.
• Select comfortable, private, quiet place.
• Advise flat mates re answering phone.
• Have copy of CV and company information.
• Have pen and paper at hand.
• Prepare for usual interview questions.
• Practice on phone.
  • Record answers
  • Try standing
  • Smile and use gestures
  • Avoid monotones
• Be yourself.

Web Resources for Interviews Practice

• UL Careers website: ul.ie/careers
• Gradireland website: gradireland.com
• Careers4graduates: careers4graduates.org
• Doctor Job: doctorjob.com (Virtual Interview)
• Prospects: prospects.ac.uk
• Realworld: realworldmagazine.com
• Virtual Career Coach: windmillsprogramme.com
• BBC: bbc.co.uk/radio1/onelife/work

I hope friends you will find my article useful. In my next article I will share “How to Give Best Answers To Tough Interview Questions”

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