Showing posts tagged with: job interview
There’s no escaping social media these days. Whether you use it for you career or not, you need to consider the implications of what could be decades of historical data available online about you. That fan blog you wrote when you were at school for example, or some outdated jokes exchanged with friends from the late noughties. We have talked about using Linked In to help get a job, but it is important you do not overlook other social media platforms as an active job seeker. All social media, used correctly can be great for job seekers. It could, however, be costing you interview opportunities. Recruiters and potential employers may actively search for applicants on social media when they are reviewing your CV so if you have an online presence, you need to make sure it is working in your favour with a social media audit. Read on to find out what you can do to give your social media the once over.
Five Tips For Optimising Your Social Media Presence:
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#1 Check Google
You may not think you have much of an online presence but you might be mentioned or tagged elsewhere, or perhaps you have an old profile somewhere you have forgotten about. Google your name and social media handles and remove any information you do not want public. Try setting up a free Google alert to let you if you turn up somewhere in the future.
#2 Privacy Settings Vary
Privacy settings vary from platform to platform, and are subject to change. If you are a job seeker or not it is a good idea to make sure you are up to date on what 'public' and 'private' means across your networks and what can be seen on your profile from outside your direct connections. Click here for a great article on how to protect your privacy settings online:
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#3 Be Consistent
Once you have established what is visible, you need to make sure there is consistency with the profile you have created in your job application and the profile that is visible in a search of your name. Make sure there are no obvious differences in basic information and, if you have time, you could think about sharing some content that is relevant to the job you are seeking or to support your interests and skills.
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#4 Be Mindful
Be mindful of how you might sound to potential employers when commenting. Try to get involved in conversations on Linked In or Facebook groups that are relevant to your field, but always time to consider your responses. Avoid political commentary or bad-mouthing previous co-workers or employers – jokes can be highly subjective so be aware of how things might sound out of context!
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#5 Keep it Simple
Don't try and cultivate two or three entirely different identities. Simplicity is key and sometimes just making sure you are on top of your privacy settings is enough to keep your professional persona safe. Maybe you don’t use social media, or you are a social spectator, not posting anything yourself. This is certainly the safest option. However, you may want to make sure you are demonstrating the character and skills you want to put across for your job search, in the digital world especially, you might find no online presence would be detrimental to your job search.
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Time to Put it Into Practice
The truth is that there is no one size fits all answer and it depends on the type of job you are looking for, the role, the level of seniority and ultimately your preference and interest in managing your information in the ways above. Start by googling yourself and go from there! For the latest in digital jobs and tips for improving your chances of success, make sure you check out Dot Gap jobs and blog pages.
All job interviews can help you to grow. Even if you didn’t get the job, you can still turn the experience into a valuable lesson. You just need to listen to the feedback you get from the employer or recruitment agency about your performance and skills. Here are five ways you can learn from every job interview going forward.
1. How To Learn From Job Interview Feedback: Don’t Be Nervous To Ask For Feedback
Job interviews can be a little stressful, but try not to be too nervous to ask for feedback. This is because some job interviewers are very busy, so they may not think to give you any feedback at the end of the interview. Simply ask politely if they would like to give you any feedback about the interview, and if they say yes listen carefully. Don’t be defensive; instead, try to take the feedback on board, even if you don’t totally agree with it!2. Speak To Your Recruitment Agency
Are you working with a recruitment agency (such as ours) to increase the number of job interviews you are being offered? If so, speak to your agency to find out if they can give you any feedback for future interviews. This could be general interview advice, or they could have specific skills based advice for you. For instance, they may suggest that you rearrange your CV to prioritise certain skills.3. Understand That Feedback Can Be Constructive
Some people dislike receiving feedback as they feel like they are being criticised, but in reality feedback is an important tool that can help you to grow. After all, there is a reason the phrase ‘constructive criticism’ exists! If you struggle to receive feedback, remind yourself that there is no reason to take it personally. The other person is taking time out of their day to give you advice and tips, and if you take the advice you are more likely to ace an interview in the future. So try to listen, even if you do feel a little miffed.4. Give Yourself Feedback
You don’t have to exclusively rely on recruiters and interviewers to give you feedback; you can also give yourself feedback. Spend some time reflecting after a job interview. Ask yourself which questions you answered well and which questions could have been answered better, and think about what you would do differently next time.5. Write Down Areas To Work On
Finally it can be useful to write down certain areas that you want to work on. Maybe there is a short course that you could do to improve a certain skill, or maybe you would like to work on your confidence. Spending time addressing your weaker areas is a great way to improve your overall performance, so you are more likely to land your dream job interview in the future. Good luck!
You are motivated and ambitious, and you are ready to move up the career ladder. You apply for new jobs every single week, and you feel mentally prepared for a job interview – the only thing is, you haven’t heard back from any employers. Can you relate to this? If so, you’re not alone. Most available jobs receive lots of interviews, so if your job application isn’t top-notch it may be dismissed. Here are three tips to help you make sure your job application stands out.
1. How To Make Your Job Application Stand Out: Tailor Every Single Application
Do you send the same application to every vacancy that you find? If you are doing this, it is likely you are missing out on lots of great opportunities because your job application doesn’t stand out. You might think that sending out the same job application to every role helps to save you time. In reality, if it isn’t well-suited to any of the roles, you are wasting your time sending it out! So take some time to tailor your CV to each role. If the job description lists certain skills and experience, move those skills and experience to the top of your CV so they are immediately noticeable. Remove sections that are outdated or unnecessary. For instance, a 4 week yoga qualification isn’t needed for a digital marketing role! Then include a tailored cover letter explaining why you think you are a good fit for the role. This will significantly increase your chances of landing a job interview.2. Check For Errors
Before you submit your CV go through it and check for any errors or misspellings. This may seem obvious, but many people don’t do it – and recruiters are clear that poor spelling is a big problem. When you think your application is ready, walk away from it for an hour or so and focus on something else. When you return you will be able to look at your CV with fresh eyes. This means that you are more likely to spot spelling mistakes or grammatical errors. You could also use a free online spell checker (although we do suggest also looking through your application, as bots don’t always pick up on every error). Do you have a job interview coming up? Here are some tips to help you prepare for your interview.3. Follow Up
Finally it is important to follow up once you have sent a job application. Wait a reasonable length of time (perhaps a week or so), and then send an email to let them know you are thankful for the interview opportunity. Make sure that the email is professional and well written. This is a great way to make your application stand out, especially if lots of people are applying for the same role.
Do you have a job interview on the horizon? If so, you may be feeling a little nervous. After all, job interviews can be stressful, especially if it is for your dream job. Thankfully it is entirely possible to ace your job interview; you just need to be prepared. So if you’re thinking about finding a new job, we are here to help. Here are some common questions interviewers like to ask.
1. Questions Interviewers Like To Ask: “So, tell me a little about yourself.”
This is normally the first question most job interviewers ask. Some people struggle to answer the question as it is quite vague and general, but the best thing you can do is talk about why you are a great candidate for the role. Talk about previous experience that is relevant to the job, and discuss any personality traits that also suit the job (for instance, if it is a salesperson role you may want to mention that you are quite confident and chatty). Don’t overshare, and don’t feel like you need to provide too much detail about your personal life; remember you are only here to show the interviewer why they should hire you.2. “Why do you want this role?”
This question is another chance for you to mention your relevant skills, but it is also a good opportunity to talk about the company itself. Maybe their ethics and values align with yours, or maybe you are particularly passionate about working in the area the company is based.3. “What are your salary expectations?”
This question can feel uncomfortable, but it is important to be honest. Don’t under or oversell yourself; do some research about the role before your meeting, and come up with a realistic, fair number.4. “What are your strengths?”
Most employers ask this question to work out if you are actually qualified for the position. This is a chance for you to talk more about your qualifications and previous experience – but make sure to ‘show’ this, rather than just telling it. For instance, don’t just say that you have good leadership skills; instead, give an example of when you displayed leadership skills.5. “What are your weaknesses?”
This question can seem like a bit of a trap, but it is just so the job interviewer can get a proper idea of who you are. Try to frame any of your weaknesses in a positive way; maybe you could mention skills that you are currently trying to improve.
Job interviews can be pretty stressful, especially if it has been a while since you’ve had an interview. You might be worried about saying the wrong thing, or maybe you’re worried you don’t have the necessary qualifications for the role. Either way, you’re not alone; a recent study found that over 90% of people feel nervous before a job interview. Thankfully it is possible to ace the interview and get the job; you just need to have the right mindset. Here are four tips to help you reduce your stress levels before a job interview.
1. How To Reduce Your Stress Levels Before A Job Interview: Have A Rehearsal
One of the best ways to reduce stress before an interview is by having a practice interview. This is because research has found that practising success tends to increase feelings of self-confidence. So try practicing answers to common job interview questions (such as “what are your strengths?”) in front of the mirror before your interview. Go over each question a few times until you feel totally happy with your answer. It can also be useful to wear the outfit you are going to wear to the job interview when you are rehearsing. This will make the upcoming event feel less daunting (and it also means you might spot any potential outfit issues, such as ink on the shirt!).2. Reframe The Event In Your Mind
Try to reframe how you see the event in your mind. Instead of seeing it as an all-important occasion that could make or break you, see it as an exciting opportunity to advance your career. If you get the job, that’s great – but it isn’t a problem if you don’t. There will be other opportunities in the future, even if you don’t know about them yet.3. Reduce Stress With Music Or Relaxation Apps
On the day of the interview you can reduce your stress levels by listening to music or using a relaxation app (such as Calm). This will help to soothe your nerves and boost your mood, so you will be in the best possible mindset for the interview.4. Have A Pep Talk
Finally have a pep talk with yourself right before the meeting. Self-affirmation is a great way to boost self-confidence, and it doesn’t take long; just a few minutes of focusing on your skills and strengths should improve your mindset. So take a few minutes for yourself, and spend the time reminding yourself that you are worthy of this job. You are talented, you are skilled, and you are going to do a great job!
Up until very recently most interviews were conducted face-to-face, but the recent pandemic has changed that. Now most interviews are held over video chat, using apps such as Zoom or Skype. This is ideal for remote workers… but a video call can feel very difficult to a standard, in-person interview! Here are nine tips to help you prepare for a Zoom interview.
1. How To Prepare For A Zoom Interview: Don’t Use Your Mobile
Zoom does have a mobile feature, but a desktop device (such as a mobile or a laptop) is a better option for a job interview. This is because a desktop device will be stationary, so the camera won’t seem shaky or blurry during the interview. This will give the interviewer a clearer view of you, and it also means you will seem more prepared and professional.2. Update Your Laptop Beforehand
It can also be useful to check your laptop for updates beforehand. After all, a random update pop-up during the interview will be an unnecessary distraction – and you could end up restarting your laptop if you accidentally click it, cutting the interview short for no reason! So do any essential updates before the Zoom interview, and restart your laptop beforehand so everything is running smoothly.3. Find A Professional Background
Find a professional space in your house that is tidy and clutter-free, such as the study or the kitchen. A professional set-up will make it seem like you are more serious about the job (and it also means you won’t seem messy or informal). Do you have a phone interview instead of a Zoom interview? No problem; click here to discover how to have a great phone interview.4. Make Sure The Room Is Brightly Lit
It is also important to ensure that the set is well lit so that the interviewer can actually see your facial expressions and body language. We suggest choosing a naturally bright room in your house, and then positioning your laptop in front of a window so you are sat in natural light.5. Make Sure The Space Is Quiet
Next make sure that the space is quiet so that you and the interviewer can easily hear each other. Shut the window if you are near a main road, and shut the door if you live with housemates or animals.6. Speak To Your Family/Roommates Beforehand
If you live with other people you should also tell them about the interview beforehand. This means that they won’t interrupt your interview by knocking on the door or walking in, and it also means they are more likely to be considerate and quiet if they are home while the interview is happening.7. Switch Off Notifications
Put your phone on aeroplane mode and switch off notifications on your laptop before the interview to reduce distractions.8. Clear Your Screen
You may also want to clear your laptop screen (close random tabs and files) before starting the interview. This is because the interviewer may ask you to share your screen with them (for instance, they may want to see your portfolio or CV), and this ensures your background is professional, rather than personal.9. Practice First
Finally you may want to practice using the Zoom app if you haven’t used it before. Download it, open it and log in. Test out the software by using your camera and microphone, and make sure everything is working properly before the interviewer calls.
Most people find job interviews nerve-wracking. You have to sell yourself, answer questions about your career and ensure you stand out from the crowd – and at the end, it is likely you will be asked if you have any questions for the interviewer. Saying that you don’t have any questions can be an instant no hire for some interviewers; after all, it can make you seem disinterested in the role, or as though you are trying to rush through the interview. So if you really want to impress during an interview, you should prepare a few questions in advance. And don’t worry if you can’t think of anything; we’re here to help. Here are seven example questions you can ask at the end of a job interview.
1. Questions To Ask At The End Of A Job Interview: “What do you like most about working for this company?”
If the interviewer is struggling to answer this question, it could mean that the company isn’t great to work for. Thankfully most interviewers will have an answer, and this will teach you more about the company and day-to-day life there. This also gives the interviewer the chance to talk more about themselves and their role, which will help you to bond.2. “What do the great team members do differently to the standard team members?”
This question will help you to stand out from other employees if you do get the job – and it also shows the interviewer that you don’t intend to be a mediocre employee, which will increase you chances of a second interview.3. “What makes this company different to its competitors?”
This shows the interviewer that you have a genuine interest in the company and their goals, and it also gives the interviewer the chance to teach you more about the company. This can be very useful if you get a second interview with a more senior team member.4. “How would you describe the management style here?”
Every company has different values and goals, and this can affect the management style within the company. Asking this question will teach you more about different management styles, and it will also let you know if the company is a good fit for your personality. Interested in working with us? Find out what our previous clients have to say.5. “What is the training program like for this role?”
Most jobs come with some level of training; this could take a few hours, or it could take weeks to complete. Asking this question will let you know more about the introductory aspect of the role, which will make it easier for to prepare if you do get the role.6. “Could you show me around the offices before I leave?”
If the interview takes place in the office you will be working in, this could be a good question to ask. It will give you the chance to see what the atmosphere in the office is like, and you may even get to meet a few potential co-workers. This will help you to work out if the job is a good fit for you. Click here to start your career in sales.7. “What goals does the company have for the next year?”
This is a good question as it allows you to understand what the business needs the most. Maybe it is a specific skill, such as digital marketing, or maybe it is simply to streamline the business. Either way, knowing this will make it easier for you to truly help the business if you do get the job.
It doesn’t matter if you are a graduate or decades into your career; either way, the likelihood is you want to work for a great company. You want to work for a company that truly cares about their employees; one that offers career progression and excellent benefits. But how exactly can you find a company like that? One of the best ways to scout out a company is during the interview process. Here are five signs a company is a good fit for you.
1. The Interview Process Is Smooth
The job interview process is normally a good indicator of how you will be treated as an employee. Ask yourself these questions; do the company seem friendly in their emails? Are they offering you a range of potential meeting times for the interview? How did they treat you during the interview? Did they thank you for speaking to them? The answers to these questions will tell you more about the business and how they treat their employees.2. They Take Feedback Seriously
A good company will normally ask for feedback from the interviewee at the end of the interview. Remember that even the most successful businesses can make mistakes along the way; the way they stay successful is by acknowledging the problem and fixing it! So look for businesses who welcome feedback from both employees and interviewees. If you are interested in our company and you want to find out more about what we do, click here.3. They Care About Employee Development
Great businesses understand that employee development is key to success. They understand that this benefits both the employee and the business (and they also understand that employees are more likely to stay with the company for longer if they are given the chance to advance!). So look for a company who invests time, effort and money into their employees, allowing them to grow their skillset and improve their performance.4. The Company Office Is Pleasant
If you get the chance to interview at the office, take a minute to check out the offices after your interview. Are the desks covered with plants and family photos, or does the room have a lifeless feel? Are employees treating each other with friendliness and respect , or is the atmosphere quiet and cold? These factors may not seem important, but they can have a huge effect on your overall happiness and productivity while you are at work.5. They Focus On Healthy Working Relationships
Finally you should look for a company that focuses on healthy working relationships, especially if you will be working as part of a team. A bad co-worker can really ruin a job, but this shouldn’t be a problem if the company prioritises HR and employee satisfaction.
In the past most interviews were conducted face to face, but the recent pandemic made remote interviews the norm – and it doesn’t seem like things will be going back to the ‘old normal’ for a while. So if you’re applying for jobs (or hiring candidates), it is very likely that you will have a phone interview. This could be a standard phone call, or it could be a video call over WhatsApp; but either way, you should prepare for the interview in advance if you want to succeed. Here are eight tips for a great phone interview.