Job Seeker Resources
Tips, Tools and Tricks to Help You Succeed
Struggling to get your foot in the door?
We’re here to guide and support you as you navigate the recruitment process.
Here’s what the journey will look like:
Your Recruitment Process Roadmap
📨 Step 1
Application
📄 Step 2
CV Screen
1st Shortlist
📲 Step 3
Phone Screen
2nd Shortlist
🗣 Step 4
Interview
3rd Shortlist
☑️ Step 5
Pre-Employment Checks
🤝 Step 6
Offer
Insider Knowledge for You!
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Applications - What NOT to do
We get it, putting together an application and submitting it takes time and effort.
So, make sure you give yourself the best chance by following these simple yet essential steps to craft a remarkable application:
1️⃣ Do not call the recruiter every day - In most cases, recruiters are not the only decision-makers when it comes to hiring someone, so their magical powers very often do not include the ability to accelerate the hiring process.
2️⃣ Answer calls from recruiters from a quiet place - When you see an incoming phone call, make sure to relocate to a quiet location. If this isn't possible, simply ask to call them back in 5 minutes.
3️⃣ Sound interested – Every interaction counts, and your enthusiasm should be clearly communicated. Joking about “doing nothing” as your dream job won’t get you very far.
4️⃣ Be available - If you ask to be called back in 5 minutes, do pick up the second call. Never act like you didn't apply in the first place.
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Top Tips for Your CV
A CV is like your business card: it introduces you to a new audience. So, set your potential free with a polished, punchy CV. Every word matters, so think of your CV as you would real estate by following these guidelines:
🟢 Triple-check the grammar and spelling - Whether using software, or having someone proofread your CV, make sure your spelling, grammar and layout is perfect. Make it easy for others to get to know you.
🟩 Keep it brief - Aim for 2-3 pages maximum, recruiters are speedy readers so you need to factor in their short attention spans.
❇️ Leave out private details - Date of birth, marital status, and sexual preferences are all personal information that could trigger unconscious biases in the person reading your CV. Stick to your professional experience and achievements!
💚 Pictures out - Unless you are applying for a role in TV or media , leave your glamorous selfie out. Again, it may work against you.
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Interview like a Pro
Finding it hard to crack those interviews? Let's dive into best practices.
Recruitment is all about timing, especially around interviews. Gear up by doing the following:
🗣 Be on time - By showing up on time (even 5 minutes early) you demonstrate your ability to manage your own time, keep a commitment and respect the interviewer’s agenda too.
📣 Dress appropriately - Wearing appropriate, and clean, footwear and clothing shows that you're prepared, attentive to detail, and taking the opportunity seriously.
🎤 Communication is key - Use proper vocabulary, employ a friendly tone and maintain eye contact. Remember to refrain from the temptation of checking your phone during the interview. Even better, turn your phone off!
🙊 Do your research - Gather as much information as you can about the company and their services/products: mentioning aspects that caught your attention is a great way to show you’ve done your homework and emphasises your interest in the role.
Hear it from a Successful Job Seeker
Preparing your Job Application
- Ensure there are no typos and/or spelling mistakes on your CV and cover letter
- Put relevant skills/experience first
- Customise your CV for each application
- Keep your CV and cover letter simple and easy to read
- Keep a record of your job applications
- Recruiters and employers are busy people, help them find what they need on your CV
Interview Preparation for Job Seekers
- Dress according to the role you are applying for
- Be neat and tidy
- Research the company – values, projects/work they are involved in
- Research the company and view the recruiter/manager's profile on LinkedIn
- Look on the company's website
- Connect with the people who work there (even better if you know someone who works there already)
- Think of a list of possible interview questions and answer them out loud (we can help you with this)
- Practice your power pose to boost your self-confidence!
What do Pre-Employment Checks Involve?
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The Bare Minimum
At a minimum, it is common for organisations to carry out 2 reference checks with your most recent employers.
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The Add-ons
Depending on the position and the company, other checks may involve a health assessment, drug test, credit check, MOJ (police) check, ACC claims history check, and/or psychometric assessment (ability and/or personality preference questionnaire).
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How We Can Help
Talent Connection is SHL certified, so if you wish to participate in a psychometric assessment for practice purposes prior to your interview, let us know.
Must-Do's for Every Step of Your Application
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Know the job description
To express genuine alignment with the role, make sure to understand and remember the job description. Keep a log you can access anytime as a cheat sheet (e.g. on your phone📲).
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Watch your Language (written and spoken!)
Use appropriate language and remember to stay clear of abbreviations, acronyms, profanity and slang. Professional language, both on paper and the spoken word, clearly communicates your ability to handle workplace interactions.
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Communicate your Interest
Your personality, passion and experience set you apart throughout the recruitment process! So, how can you express your interest in a role? There are many ways, including the words you choose for your CV and covering letter, the tone of voice you adopt as well as how you interact with recruiters and hiring managers.
Q&A
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SHOW OFF YOUR TALENTS TO POTENTIAL EMPLOYERS. OUR CV ENHANCEMENT SERVICE WILL HELP YOUR CV SHINE BRIGHT LIKE A STAR TO RECRUITERS/EMPLOYERS.
- CV crafting
- Cover letter creation
- LinkedIn profile optimisation
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WHETHER YOU ARE LOOKING FOR AN ENTRY-LEVEL ROLE OR UNLEASHING YOUR NEWLY DISCOVERED TALENTS WE CAN OFFER YOU THE FOLLOWING:
- Job search strategies
- Discovering your transferable skills/talents
- Interview skills coaching
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