Fish4jobs FREE webinar: Selling Yourself to Employers
Transcript of Fish4jobs FREE webinar: Selling Yourself to Employers
About me
Reviewed 1,000+ CVs on Fish4jobs Jobs Roadshow
Head of Marketing for Fish4jobs one of UK’s leading job sites – 1.3 million job seekers visit us each month
Involved in recruiting over 50 staff
About this webinar• 3 sections: Selling yourself...
– On paper– In person– Online
• 30 minutes: – 20 mins presentation– 10 min Q&A at the end
• Do interact by posting questions using ‘Questions’ tab Visit ‘Attachments’ section:
• CV advice & templates• Cover letter tips &
templates • Interview advice & FAQs• Using social media in
your job search• And more…
Mistake #1: Bad formatting/layout
Tips
No perfect layout
Easy to scan read
Chronological flow
2 pages
Lead with the best stuff first!
Structure
• Contact details
• Personal statement
• Key achievements/skills
• Work history
• Education
• Hobbies & interests (where relevant)
• References available upon request
Attachments:
1. CV template
2. Graduate CV template
3. School leavers CV template
Mistake #3: Generic or no personal profile• 3 sections
1. Who you are (education and work history)
2. What you can bring to the table (skills, achievements)
3. Your career aim (what job you want)
• Avoid clichés
• Keep it concise
• Tailor
Attachment:
1. Write a profile that packs a punch
Examples that state the obvious
“A highly motivated, hard working and enthusiastic individual who possesses the ability to learn new skills. I am punctual with excellent timekeeping and attendance. I consider myself to be very reliable, honest and trustworthy, I get on well with people and enjoy working as part of a team or on my own initiative. I am of smart appearance and well spoken.”
“An employer would find me reliable and responsible as well as being extremely flexible and co-operative. I am eager and willing to expand my skills and try out new challenges that may come my way. I am a bubbly and bright person who works well in a team and solely. I also believe I have enough experience and life skills to excel at any challenge thrown my way.”
"I am a committed and hard working individual who enjoys a challenge. In addition to strong communication skills, I am able to work effectively in a team. I can also demonstrate advanced problem-solving skills and thrive under pressure. My drive and ambition ensure I am a valuable addition to any company."
Examples that sell
“Enthusiastic school leaver with five GCSEs looking for an apprenticeship in the engineering field Possessing good written and verbal communication and an interest in engineering which has spanned my lifetime with particular passion for electrics. For my GCSE Design & Technology project, I built a working calculator and was awarded an A*. Looking for a start in the exciting world of electrical engineering where I can learn a trade and realise a lifetime ambition.”
“A motivated, adaptable and responsible school leaver seeking an entry-level position in public relations which will utilise the organisational and communication skills developed through my involvement with promotional work during vacations.”
“As recent graduate from Durham University, with a 2:1 honours degree in media communications, I have undertaken several internships within leading organisations such as Bertelsmann and Times Warner. These placements have enabled me to develop not only specific media industry experience, but also a valuable and transferable skill set in this fast-paced sector.”
Unnecessary personal data
• Date of birth
• Marital status
• Children
• National insurance
• Passport number
• No photos!
• Relevant hobbies
Relevant hobbies & interests
• Examples:– Captain of school hockey team
(demonstrates leadership)– Duke of Edinburgh Award
(demonstrates commitment)– Volunteer/community work (proactive)– Visiting museums and art galleries (if
applying for jobs in architecture or the arts)
– Cars (if applying to be a mechanic/work with cards)
– Amateur dramatics (if applying for drama or role that involves public speaking)
To recap...
Keep the layout clear and easy to scan read, 2 pages
Tailor your CV to individual role/types of role
Include a personal statement that makes you stand out
Get someone to proof read your CV
Remove any personal data that isn’t relevant (esp. hobbies!)
Attachments:
1. CV tips
2. CV template
3. Graduate CV template
4. School leavers CV template
Cover letters: should I bother?• Simple answer, yes!
• Majority of candidates don’t include one so sets you apart
• Snapshot of why your skills, achievements and experience make you relevant for the job
• Always include cover letters when applying for jobs on job sites
Attachments:
1. Cover letter tips
2. Cover letter templates incl. school leavers & graduates
Cover letters: top tips Keep it short, structured and snappy
Tailor it to each job you apply for
Back up with relevant examples
Bring your reader up to speed on your current situation
Stick to plain, professional language
Proofread your letter or email with eagle eyes before sending
Sounds simple, but remember to include your address, telephone number and email
Most common interview mistakes
Poor body language
Failing to do your homework
Not staying positive
Not dressing the part
Lack of confidence
Attachment:
1. Common interview mistakes
Interview FAQs
1. Tell me about yourself
2. Why should we hire you?
3. What are your weaknesses?
4. Why do you want this job?
5. Give me an example of when you...
Attachment:
1. Common interview questions
The hidden job market•70% jobs aren’t advertised
Getting your CV found
Make sure it’s visible
Include the right keywords
Keep it fresh
Social media: Cleaning up your act
• 80% of employers Google candidates before interview/hiring
Top tips:
Google yourself
Keep good company
Professional names
Set up Google alerts to monitor
Attachment:
1. Using social media in your job search
Using social media to your advantage• Get connected
• Get recommended
• Build an online platform
• Put Twitter to work for you