As the weather gets warmer, competition for new roles is also heating up. In fact, our recent job market data found that the amount of people applying for positions jumped up by 10.8% last quarter. This means that if you’re looking for a job, placement, or grad scheme right now, you need to ensure you’re standing out in front of employers.
So, sit back, relax and take it all in. You’ll be sure to make a great impression when it comes to applying for jobs and meeting with interviewers.
You have a well-written CV and cover letter
When applying for jobs, it all starts with a well-written CV and cover letter. As a degree apprentice, you’ll have plenty of experience to shout about on your CV; whether that’s from your studies or any placements you’ve been on. So, you won’t be short on content.
At the same time, it’s important to keep both documents concise. Ensure your CV is no more than two A4 pages long and keep your cover letter to a maximum of one page. Stick to a clear structure and use your opening paragraph to explain who you are, what job you’re looking for and what you can bring to that particular company.
The most attractive candidates will take the time to research the company and tailor their CV and cover letter accordingly. Recruiters are busy people; they don’t want to read another generic document that’s full of buzzwords and irrelevant information. They want to know why you’re the right fit for them.
You have the right skills/experience
Of course, an attractive candidate will be someone that has the right experience. This is because, in most case, employers want to hire individuals that can hit the ground running. At the same time, most companies understand that you must start somewhere, so don’t be put off applying for roles if you don’t have the exact experience they’re looking for.
Remember, as long as you match your skillset to the requirements of the job, you’ll show that you’d be a great fit for the role. So, run through the job advert and highlight the points that you know you’re competent in.
Then, try to pull out examples where you excel in these areas. You can mention a few of these in your CV and cover letter and practise talking about them ahead of any interviews.
You impressed during the interview
It can be difficult to make a great impression on a piece of paper. But that’s why interviews provide you with a great platform to shine. If you do your prep work in advance, you’ll show employers that you’re the right person for the job.
With this in mind, make sure that you practice common interview questions, dress appropriately, arrive in good time and come armed with examples of your work. Remember, this will vary by industry, so ateaching jobinterview may be very different to ahealthcare jobinterview.
Alongside this, prepare a list of questions that you’d like to ask the employer at the end of the meeting.
Interviews can be nerve-wracking; especially if it’s for your first ‘proper job’. But keep those nerves at bay by reminding yourself what a great job you’ve done so far. They’ve invited you in to meet them; so, they must see you as an attractive candidate!
You’d fit in well with the team
Another point that employers will consider is how well you’ll fit in with the team. It’s all very well having a great education and excellent experience, but if you aren’t going to gel with your colleagues, that’s going to create more issues in the long run.
Try to get a feel for the company’s culture by browsing its social media platforms and careers pages. Of course, this isn’t suggesting that you try to be something you’re not. But instead, to try and see if you think you’d fit well with the team too.
If you do end up meeting any of your potential team when you go in for the interview, make sure you’re nice and friendly to everyone you come across. This is a great way to make a good impression.
You have great potential
As mentioned earlier, even if you don’t have loads of experience to shout about, employers love people that have great potential. Especially if you’re a recent grad! If you’re passionate about the line of work you want to get into and show that you’re willing to learn, you’ll snap up a job in no time.
Alongside this, if you’re given any pre-interview tasks, make sure you take your time with them. Don’t rush them as you won’t show your full potential. That goes for your applications too!
Show employers why you’re the right person for the job
Over all, there are several ways to impress employers and make them realise they need to hire you! So, whether you’re applying for your first ‘proper job’ a placement or a graduate scheme, make sure you set enough time aside to complete your CV, cover letter and applications, and make a great impression at interviews. Good luck!
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