Tips for Employees

Resume

Your resume highlights your experience, skills and qualifications. Many job advertisers use electronic applications, so ensure that the formatting of your resume is consistent, presentable, and simple.

The sections that you need to include in your resume are:

1. Full name and contact details -
Only list your work number if you can speak confidentially.

2. Education -
List highest level of education first.

3. Professional and personal development courses and memberships -
If any apply, note briefly.

4. Other skills -
(Such as computer skills and levels of competence, shorthand abilities etc.)

5. Employment History -
List most recent experience first.
Include achievements.
List key responsibilities and duties.

6. Referees -
List only those referees who have agreed to provide a reference.

Interview tips and advice

First impressions last – and this statement is no more true than when it relates to interviews. The interview is your opportunity to form a relationship with your potential employer and convey your suitability for the position.

1. Be prepared -
Take spare copies of your resume to the interview. 
Research the company beforehand.
Think about the questions that they are likely to ask.
Prepare a list of questions that you would like to ask.

2. Be Professional -
Dress appropriately and be neatly groomed.

3. Ensure you leave in plenty of time to get to the interview -
Don't arrive too early or too late. Take 5 minutes to sit in the foyer and relax.
 
4. Introduce yourself clearly and state with whom you are meeting.

5. Fill out any application forms in neat, legible writing, making sure you include all relevant details.

6. Shake hands firmly with the interviewers.

7. Maintain good posture, eye contact and don't be too informal or relaxed -
During the interview maintain eye contact with the people that you are talking to at all times.
Don’t fidget or get flustered.
Listen carefully to the questions you are being asked and take a couple of seconds to think about a reply before you answer. Most answers will be better given some thought. Watch your body language.

8. Don’t be negative about past employers.

9. Don’t mention salary unless asked by the employer -
Do your research and know an approximate rate of pay before.

10. Conclude the interview with another firm handshake and a positive parting statement.
Thank them for the opportunity.