Helpful hints

Constructing a resume

In an ever changing environment, where individuals move between roles with ease, many people still ask the question; what makes a resume stand out? There are many answers to this rhetorical question, however, one thing remains true, a good resume provides a solid foundation. Remember, a resume is only a vehicle to obtaining an interview; your foot in the door, a resume will not secure you a role. Only you, with your unique blend of skills and personality traits can secure that.

Before we get started it seems an appropriate opportunity to reinforce some facts about the recruitment industry. A professional Recruiter on average will only spend about 30 seconds reviewing each resume. Although this may seem shocking, in a world where hundreds of resumes pass over a Recruiter’s desk each and every day, you only have a moment to stand out. Standing out could mean the difference between securing the position of your dreams, or watching it slip through your fingers. The question therefore is how do you produce a resume that stands out? Here are a few helpful hints.

Click here for an in-depth description on how to construct a resume.

Constructing a covering letter

Covering letters; are they still a useful commodity or are they something better left in a bygone era? Regardless of industry this is a timeless question that candidates face when considering expressing interest in a position; whether that be an internal position or a position with an organisation you are considering joining. The answer to this question is rather complex, mainly because it relies on the personal preference of the individual reviewing your application. However, one thing remains true; a covering letter allows a Recruiter to gain an insight into your comprehension of the English language. As such, if you choose to include a covering letter, ensure that the content is perfect. Like your resume, a covering letter adds to your personal brand. A spelling mistake or a grammatical error could leave the reader questioning your attention to detail when it comes to your written communication capabilities. Consequently, if you are considering including a covering letter as part of your application you need to get it right.

As outlined in the section ‘how to construct a resume’, a professional Recruiter on average will only spend about 30 seconds reviewing a resume. The cold reality is they will spend even less time reviewing a covering letter. As such, the key is keeping it simple. The underlying premise of a covering letter is to give an organisation a reason to interview you.

Click here for an in-depth description on how to construct a covering letter.

Standing out at interview

First and foremost congratulations on being successful in obtaining an interview. This is an exciting part of your journey to secure the position of your dreams. At this point, it is important to inform you that contrary to popular belief just because you have been successful in being invited to an interview, does not automatically mean that you will be successful in securing your dream position.

On average anywhere from three to five candidates will be successful in being invited to attend an interview. Although, this may sound imposing it is worth noting that only 5% - 10% of the total applicant pool; that is the people who applied for the position, are invited to attend an interview. Consequently, the odds are more in your favour now, than ever before. The question posed should not be will I be successful in securing my dream role, but rather how can I stand out at interview to ensure that I will secure the position of my dreams.

An interview is a time for a potential employer to get to know more about you and how you would fit in with the organisation’s culture, values and work type. It is also an opportunity for you to ask any questions you may have with reference to the organisation, role, culture, career development and management style.

The first and arguably most important stop on your journey of interview discovery is addressing the question of how to prepare for an interview.

Click here for an in-depth description on how to stand out at an interview.

Qualifications you may seek

The 21st century presents us with an environment built on compliance. At both ends of the spectrum individuals are required to either be licensed, or obtain relevant qualifications prior to practicing in a chosen field. As such, there are mixed responses when asked if obtaining qualifications ensures an individual's future success. Qualifications form the basic foundation from which you can build your success.

Depending on your orientation, potential qualifications are vast and varied.

Click here for helpful hints associated with some property related qualifications to explore.