Login

INTERVIEW TRAINING

 

The Application



The importance of First Impressions in contact with employers is paramount. You will be trained to optimise your quality of response via:

 

  • Application Form
  • Cover Letter
  • CV presentation
  • Telephone Techniques

 


The Application Form

 

  • Always follow the instructions given.
  • Photocopy the form and work on it first.
  • Use your CV for reference.
  • Write out ideas on answering difficult questions.
  • Fill in all the boxes.
  • If a question doesn’t apply to you, write “N/A”.
  • Proof read for spelling/grammatical errors.

 


The Cover Letter

 

A Cover Letter has a twofold purpose. It is a way of introducing yourself, while simultaneously demonstrating your written skills. The layout and language used is of utmost importance. Get the reader’s attention.

 

  • Refer to the position you are applying for.
  • Highlight your strengths.
  • Summarise your achievements.
  • Stress why you are uniquely qualified for the position.
  • State that you will follow up with a phone call to arrange a meeting.
  • End with a courteous, confident sentence.
  • Sign off your letter.


The Curriculum Vitae

 

Your Curriculum Vitae is your means of promoting yourself, and must make an impact. It has to be well presented and tailored to meet the specific needs of the job advertised. A good CV is easy to read, and provides essential information. It allows the Employer to focus on your most important features if called for Interview.

 

The Content generally includes 5 basic parts:

 

  • Current information on how to contact you directly.
  • Education.
  • Descriptions of work experience.
  • Special skills and abilities.
  • Other activities, which highlight additional skills.

 

Telephone Techniques

 

’Good communication skills’ are usually cited as part of a job description. The ability to use the telephone productively is an important part of effectively promoting interpersonal communication. However, success in applying for jobs on the telephone involves preparation and thought – Before, During and After the call.

Before The Call

 

  • Plan what you are going to say.
  • Have all the necessary information in front of you i.e. the advertisement, pens and paper.
  • Ensure you know the times and dates that you are available for interview.
  • Ideally you should phone from a landline in a quiet room, rather than from a mobile phone in a noisy environment.

 


During The Call

 

  • Ask the name of the person to whom you are speaking.
  • Remember that he/she cannot see you so vary your tone and inflection.
  • Speak slowly and clearly.
  • Keep conversation brief and to the point.
  • Listen carefully to what the other person is saying about the needs and requirements of the job.
  • Take notes during the conversation.
  • Thank the receiver for his/her time and attention. Remember to refer to them by their name.
  • If left waiting, remain calm and polite.

 


After The Call

 

  • Re-read your notes and make sure you understand what was said.
  • Record the date and the name of the person you spoke to.
  • Record the time and date of the interview in your diary.

 

Answering Machines/Voicemail

 

  • Always have a short clear message ready. Make a checklist of key points to be covered.
  • Remember to speak slowly and clearly. Repeat your key points.
  • Leave your name and contact details.

 

Useful telephone terminology

 

“Good morning. May I speak to Mr. Kelly please?”
“Good morning. I’m phoning about your advertisement in The Times today.”
“I’m sorry. Would you mind repeating that, please?”
“Thank you for your help.”