SOLUTION 59
GETTING THE JOB YOU WANT
Getting your dream job can be your ticket to a more rewarding life, so you need to put as much time and effort into preparing to acquire it as you would a sales pitch or presentation. Develop your CV, get ready for the interview and make sure you know what to expect when you are hired.
PREPARING YOUR CV
Your curriculum vitae (CV) helps employers understand the features and benefits of hiring you. It must clearly represent your credentials and your career goals, and should include the following:
Experience Tell employers what you’ve done but only include experience that is relevant to the position you are applying for.
Credentials Outline what you know or have been recognized for; use measurable terms – customers, revenue, percentages, etc.
References Communicate what others say about you; make sure you get permission to include referees first.
Contact Give contact details and list times when you are available to discuss employment.
QUICK FIX: THE FUNCTIONAL CV
Usually a CV is organized chronologically, listing your jobs and responsibilities by date, starting with the most recent first and working backwards. However, if you have moved from job to job, you may be better represented by a functional CV where you group your employment by job function rather than by employer.
THE COVERING LETTER
Focus the employer on why you are the right candidate for the job. There are four common elements:
Subject ‘Thank you for considering my credentials as a sales manager for your company.’
Qualifications summary ‘I offer your firm five years’ of progressive experience in selling to business clients… (and elaborate).’
Focused qualifications ‘Most importantly, I am a proven self-manager with experience of helping other salespeople to reach their own and their employers’ goals… (and elaborate).’
Urge to action ‘Please contact me at your convenience to discuss your position further and to discover how I can help your business grow.’
the purpose of a CV is to earn an interview; the function of a covering letter is to get the CV read
THE INTERVIEW
The job interview is your opportunity to sell yourself face-to-face. Prepare yourself:
• Before your interview appointment, go over the job description, and re-read your covering letter and CV
• Consider what questions the interviewer might ask based on these documents and be ready to answer them
• Be focused on your interview – don’t walk in thinking about the parking ticket you might get
• Don’t be late, dress for success, and be confident in the outcome
• Relax and enjoy this opportunity to sell yourself
• Prepare a few questions to discover what the employer has to offer you in terms salary, benefits and career development