February 2007

 



Dear Anne

Welcome to February’s edition of Positive Energy from Milecastle Consultancy.

Last month we looked at how you can create a more powerful impression by presenting yourself differently. This month we’re going to show you how you can put your best self forward in job applications and interviews. For anyone nervous about stepping out of their comfort zone to apply for a new position, you’ll learn lots of confidence building tips.

If you want to remind yourself of last month’s newsletter topic, then visit the website at www.milecastle.co.uk to view back issues.

I hope this newsletter is helpful to you. Please do send me your comments and success stories. Click here to email me or call me on 01697 747 821.

Best wishes,



 
 

The Positive Part – How Do You Put Your Best Self Forward For a New Job?

Applying for a new job can be very daunting. The criteria set out in job adverts often put people off. But it’s worth remembering that they are written to attract the ideal candidate. When it gets to the interview, they’ll be looking for the best candidate from the ones that applied.

It’s also important to remember that if you apply for a job, you’ve already increased your chances of getting it by 100%. Of course, there are a number of other things you can do to secure that job offer. Here are a few tips that are worth considering:

Research

Do as much homework as you can. Familiarise yourself with the organisation by:

  • Requesting a copy of their annual report, newsletter or marketing material
  • Check out their website
  • Talk to anyone you know who might be a customer
  • Quiz anyone you know who already works there or who used to work there
  • Ask for the application pack as early as possible to give you more time to prepare.

Application forms & CVs

Your application form or CV needs to be tailored to the specific organisation and position that you’re applying for. Make sure you:

  • Are consistent in the way you present your information
  • Make it easy to find the information
  • Are positive and enthusiastic
  • Focus on the results you’ve achieved and give powerful examples
  • Get constructive feedback on your first draft
  • Always take a copy for yourself
  • Remember that the job of your CV is to get you though the door so that you can then start the real job of selling yourself and your many talents.

The Interview

The tips we’ve provided in previous newsletters will be excellent preparation for your interview. But here are a few more suggestions to help you succeed:

  • Review your application form and CV. Be prepared to expand on any of the information you’ve given
  • Find out in advance what is involved – will you need to do a presentation, will there be any psychometric assessments?
  • Remember it’s a two way process. Prepare some questions that you can ask them
  • But most of all, don’t forget to blow your own trumpet!

To give yourself the greatest chance of getting the job, you need to be fully prepared. Read on for more ideas.


 

Positive Practice

Here are three simple steps that will help give you the confidence you need when stepping into a job interview.

  • Step one – Consider what you’ll be asked. Think about questions you’ll be asked about your ability to do the job and the information included in your application or CV.
  • Step two – Prepare your answers. It’s always helpful to have an idea of what you’re going to say in response to questions. Always take your time when you answer a question and if you are unsure then ask them to repeat the question.
  • Step three – Practice! Ask a friend or relative to give you a practice interview. They might think of questions that you hadn’t anticipated and it really helps to hear yourself say the answers out loud. Practice as much as you can!

And remember, if you don’t get the first job you apply for, at least you’re building up application and interview experience. You can never have enough of that!


  

What Can You Do?

Emma Linnit from Trowbridge punched above her weight.

Emma had worked as a marketing assistant for three years. She saw a job advertised at a competitor company at the same grade but for much better money. Two of Emma’s friends worked there and said it was a great place to work. Because it was a competitor company she already knew the product really well.

Emma got the application pack and then rang the marketing department posing as a potential customer. She got loads of information and went to the interview feeling really confident. In the interview she was asked what ideas she had for a product launch. With the information she had Emma was able to put forward some really novel and exciting ideas. That evening she got a call telling her that they wanted to offer her the marketing managers post rather than the assistant as she had such a good knowledge of their product line and was clearly enthusiastic about her work.

What Can You Read?

Brilliant CV by Jim Bright and Joanne Earl. Written by recruitment agents who really know what they want to see in a CV. I’ve used the tips in this book on my CV and it has never failed to get me though the door.

What Next by Barbara Moses. See section 3 on Finding Great Work – writing a CV that sells, writing compelling covering letters, successful interview strategies and negotiating the right package for you.

There are literally hundreds of internet sites giving CV and interview advice. Just type “CV interview advice uk” into Google and enjoy.

What’s Available?

Calling all women in farming in South Yorkshire AGAIN!! We have won more EU funding to run a second Springboard programme in conjunction with LANTRA South Yorkshire Rural Skills Project. This time the course is in Mexborough starting on 12th March. Thanks to the funding this programme is only £30, but because of this, you must fit the residence and employment criteria. The booking form and leaflet are on the website at www.milecastle.co.uk. Places are on a first come first served basis and we’ve already signed up four women, so don’t delay!

Fresh Steps for Older Workers. 60 is the new 40. With an aging population and fewer younger workers to fill vacancies, there is increasing opportunity and demand for older workers to step into new, challenging roles. Do you have the motivation to keep you going until you can afford to retire? Does your organisation need to capitalise on the vast pool of wisdom and expertise residing with this often overlooked and undervalued group of workers? Call us now if you’re interested in this brand new work and personal development programme, specifically researched, designed and written for older workers.

Positive Praise

“Just a short note to say I like your newsletter. In these days of info overload I only subscribe to 3 and yours is one of them.” from Tina Cook, Organisational and Leadership Development Consultant

In next month’s issue of Positive Energy we’ll look at ways you can make things happen in your life.  

 
 
Milecastle Consultancy Ltd
Tel: 01697 747 821  Email: sue.hewitt@milecastle.co.uk  Website: www.milecastle.co.uk
Milecastle Consultancy Ltd, 1 Rose Cottages, Gilsland, Brampton, Cumbria CA8 7AP		  

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