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Writing a Resume CREATE YOUR RESUME Create your Employers often receive many resumes and someone inevitably has the task of reading them all. It is highly likely that someone reading your resume will have developed an impression of you within the first 60 seconds. Therefore, getting their attention and creating an effective first impression is very important. Jobseeker Toolkit

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Page 1:  · Web view... receptionist, professional association ... one-word answers are never ... a list of answers to common questions (see Interview Skills Fact

Writing a ResumeCREATE YOUR RESUME Create your Employers often receive many resumes and someone inevitably has the task of reading them all. It is highly likely that someone reading your resume will have developed an impression of you within the first 60 seconds. Therefore, getting their attention and creating an effective first impression is very important.

You can help an employer to choose your resume by making it concise (no more than four pages) and directly relating it to your skills and ability to do the job. Dot points may make your resume easier to read. Your resume is your marketing tool. Place your best selling points early in the resume. Your contact details are important, but leave space to highlight your achievements. Employers are interested in how you can assist their business operations to grow.

Jobseeker Toolkit

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Be prepared to spend several hours drafting and refining your details so that the final results clearly demonstrate and market your skills and suitability for a position. By preparing your resume with care and making it stand out from the crowd, you can make a great first impression with a prospective employer. The resume writing process:

gather information about yourself ; select the occupational and industry target; decide what is relevant; select section headings; draft the content of the resume; allow an 'incubation' period (to create and review your work); revise the draft; review it again with others ... revise again; and ensure your presentation is first class.

RESUME FORMATS

All resume formats include information about personal details, education, work experience and relevant skills/achievements; as well as information about interests (hobbies, sports, community service etc).

Typical formats for resumes are listed below:

Chronological format - emphasises your previous work experience and is written in order of the positions beginning with the most recent job and working backwards.

Functional format - describes functions or areas of skill with a lesser emphasis on positions previously held.

Targeted format - aims at a specific job or work opportunity and organises the information in terms of what is needed for the job rather than what you have done in the past.

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DECIDING WHO THE RESUME IS FOR

The key when writing your resume is to design it for a particular audience. If you are not applying for a specific position at the time of preparing your resume, think of the type of job you would most like to apply for and construct the resume to suit that field/organisation. Some students want to create the ultimate resume that they can send off to any prospective employer.

However, students generally have a range of potential areas that they could pursue, therefore the emphasis they need to place on particular skills and experiences will vary from employer to employer. Once you have produced a quality resume, customising for a particular employer is straightforward.

PLANNING YOUR RESUME FORMAT

After selecting an appropriate resume style you can make decisions about the information you will include and how to present it clearly. Select the information that you think the particular employer will be interested in.

As your resume is your promotional document, you may choose to leave out information about your age, marital status and health, unless the employer particularly requests these details or you believe this information will add value to your application.

You now need to decide how to group the information and which will be the most appropriate headings. There are no set headings that you have to use. Select headings that will portray the information in the most powerful way possible.

EXAMPLES OF RESUME HEADINGS

Accomplishments/Key Achievements; Career Objective; Community Service; Computer Skills; Educational Background; Qualifications/training; Language Skills; Membership of Groups/societies; Previous employment/part-time Work; Recreational Interests; Relevant Skills/Experience; Sporting Achievements; Vacation Work/Work Experience; Voluntary Work; and Referees.

Under each heading, use an action word to describe your role, your achievements or a measurable outcome. Put the most impressive information first.

If you are creating a general resume, you may choose to omit the names of referees and add the line "referees available on request". This allows you to select appropriate referees for each position you apply for.

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Writing an Application LetterYour application letter is a very important part of your communication with potential employers. It is the first document they read about you and as you probably know, first impressions are vital when forming opinions.

In today's competitive employment environment you should use every opportunity to market your skills professionally. An application letter should highlight your interest in the position and your strengths - this will help you stand out as an impressive candidate.

Your application letter should give the employer a 'snapshot' of all the reasons why they should employ you. It should introduce you in a clear and focused way and encourage the employer to read the rest of your application with interest.

WHAT SHOULD AN APPLICATION LETTER FOCUS ON?

Application letters should focus on:

the position you are applying for; why you are applying to the organisation; what you have to offer; and what action you want from the organisation.

Remember, no negative statements such as “although I haven't ...''.

Given that your application letter is designed to summarise the highlights of your resume and statement addressing selection criteria (if required), it should not be written until you have completed these documents.

FORMATING YOUR APPLICATION LETTER

Your name and contact details

Date

Name of Contact person for the jobPosition TitleAddress

Dear (Ms, Mr etc.) Surname,

Paragraph 1

If replying to an advertisement, state the position you are applying for (if it's a Government position, include the Position Classification and Number) and where you found out about it.

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OR

If cold canvassing, state the reason for writing and describe the type of work you are seeking, then why you are interested in working for the organisation. This sentence/s should combine your knowledge of the organisation with your experience and skills, your goals for the future, or your professional philosophy.

Paragraph 2

Your qualifications for the position - academic and any other relevant facts and figures.

Paragraphs 3-5

Choose your three main selling points relevant to the Selection Criteria (if there are any) or advertised job description; or general skills if you have no leads about what is required for the position. Dedicate a paragraph to each skill as follows:

what the skill is; how you have demonstrated it; and how it would be useful to the organisation.

Paragraph 6

List the documents you have included in your application package. State the action you require - an opportunity to discuss your application in more detail, when you're available for interview and how you can be contacted.

Yours sincerely,

Signature

Type name

In the past, application letters were used just as a covering page for the rest of the documents and may have been very brief and uninformative about the candidate.

HELP! WHERE CAN I FIND IT?

Self-help information is available on many websites including:

www.myfuture.edu.au www.careerone.com.au www.seek.com.au

Borrow books or videos from the school /TAFE library or contact a career /course counsellor.

Ask your training provider for further Information.

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Using the Internet to find a JobBENEFITS OF THE INTERNET

The Internet is a wealth of information and a great place to find a job.

Did you know that almost 80% of jobs advertised in Australia can be found online - that's 4 out of 5 jobs!

You can access current information 24 hours a day and if you check job sites regularly you can often find jobs that have just been posted and be one of their first applicants;

You can do more detailed job searches rather than being limited by the sections in the newspaper;

You are able to search for jobs not only in your local area, but around the world; You can apply for jobs from any location; Using the Internet in your search demonstrates you are confident in using technology;

and The Internet can help you explore career alternatives and options you may not have

considered (or even heard of before).

WHAT YOU CAN DO

Gaining Information About Careers

You can find out more about the career you are interested in by looking for information provided by professional associations, government websites, such as my future, or by hearing about the role from someone who already does it. Some of these sites can also contain links to other useful sites or contain job listings.

Gaining Information About Employers

Employers often have their own website where you can find additional information about what they do and what the job you are interested in involves. It is valuable to utilise some of the information in your application and interview. This shows you have made an effort to find out more about your future employer. Many job search websites also have information on employers.

Finding Vacancies Online

There are a number of job search engines - there will often be jobs you will find in the paper, but also many others you won't. Be aware of how old the ad is though as some remain listed online even after the closing date. Some employers also have jobs listed on their site and allow you to apply through an online process from their website.

Using Online Recruitment Agencies

A large number of recruitment agencies have websites and list their positions on their website. There are often places on these sites where you can submit your resume for them to consider for future positions. It is important firstly to find out the industry the agency works with and whether the positions they advertise are similar to the one you are interested in. Once you

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have linked in with an agency contact them frequently to check on opportunities available.

Using Social Networking Sites

Don't discount the power of Facebook, Twitter, LinkIn, etc in helping you find a job. Update your profile information and status and let all your friends know you are looking for work. If there are particular friends you know in the industry you are looking to link into then contact them directly.

They can let their networks know you are looking for a job. If you are uploading your resume on a site be aware of the information in it and who may be able to read it. (Even If friends are not able to assist with finding a job they can provide support to keep you motivated).

Create Your Own Website

You can promote yourself on the web through your own website, whether it is a free one or one you have paid some money for. Ask your Internet provider if there are any deals worth considering. With a website you have the opportunity to sell yourself.

Consider using video feed to let potential employers know your skills and experience and why you are looking for a role in their industry. You could have an interactive resume online, photos of you doing roles or activities relevant to the job - you will only be limited by your imagination. Once you have a website up and running you can add the link into emails, profiles, letters, etc to direct employers to view it. Just be aware though the web is accessible to everyone so monitor the information you want everyone to see.

THINGS TO CONSIDER

Whether you are registering on sites, emailing employers or just updating your Facebook page consider what impressions you are making through:

Your email or web address (create a new one if yours doesn't sound professional enough);

Your email with a resume (use full sentences rather than txt talk and write in a similar fashion to a cover letter if it is being forwarded on or being sent to a potential employer);

The other content on your page (eg are the groups you 'like' conflicting with presenting a good image to others?); and

The format of documents (be aware of the program you use as some employers may be unable to open it - if in doubt, save it as a pdf).

HELP! WHERE CAN I FIND IT?

Search the web for sites such as: www.myfuture.edu.au

Any of the Job search engines - Google 'job search engines'

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The Hidden Job Market: NetworkingThe majority of jobs are not advertised so networking is an essential part of the process of tapping into the hidden job market to locate potential employment opportunities.

Remember to keep in touch with employment agencies as they have access to many additional Jobs, Traineeships and New Apprenticeships. Using the Internet to keep up to date on job vacancies in your field can also be beneficial. For example, visit www.jobsearch.gov.au.

There is no mystery to networking. We already use networks to find out about all kinds of information; from which Indian restaurant has the best curries, to who is a good dentist, to what course is more interesting to study etc. Networking assumes that you are aware of your skills and have identified at least a general area of interest you want to explore further.

The key to being a good networker is to build good relationships with others. It often involves sharing information, undertaking research and looking for opportunities to build on your existing networks by making a contribution.

Networking can also give you insights into which firm provides the best training, challenging work and whether there is likely to be a vacancy in your area of interest.

Students have used their networking skills to gain work experience, knowledge and employment in all kinds of areas. Using your networking skills to locate work that matches your knowledge, skills and values can often feel confronting, but so often the rewards of effective networking make it worthwhile.

NETWORKING STEPS

Step 1. Construct your own story (two or three paragraphs) that highlights your training, your interest in a particular area, a specific example of your interest and a reason for contacting the person. For example "This year I will complete a Certificate or Diploma in..... and I am thinking about further study in........ to help get into the ........ field. Would it be possible to meet for a few minutes to explore a few ideas I have about this and get some feedback from you?"

Step 2. Sit down somewhere quiet with a notepad and pen and brainstorm a list of people to contact under each of the following categories:

People close to you - these will include family, friends and relatives; Other people you know - this may include professionals you deal with on a daily basis

(for example teachers), sporting colleagues or fellow club members and any contacts you may have through volunteer work etc;

People you need to know - this may include members of professional associations (become a member), small/medium business owners and/or managers etc; and

People you don't know but who could be helpful, this may include past students, people working in an area you are interested in, or leaders in the field.

Step 3. Once you have developed a list prioritise which people to contact. Do some research to help refine your story, improve your knowledge of the person or organisation and anything else that adds to your credibility, but above all be yourself and be professional (for example,

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vault their website if they have one) Contact your local NDCO.

Step 4. Set a goal to make contact with someone by a certain date. It is useful to start within your comfort zone, a friend, teacher, receptionist, professional association representative etc. Later, as you gain confidence, be bolder about who you contact. You will be surprised that you will often get a response from the most senior people. You can contact people by phone, email, in person or in writing - whatever you feel comfortable with.

Step 5. Information interviewing is an excellent low stress way of getting first-hand knowledge in a career field or organisation of interest to you. It involves contacting an individual in an organisation and interviewing them to find out what they like about their job, what they find frustrating, what they see as their key achievement in the role, what skills are required, what the future trends might be etc.

Step 6. Make use of what you learn and thank people for their time. The aim is to generate more contacts to add to your network and ultimately to identify job leads that relate to your area of interest and lead to employment.

POSSIBLE QUESTIONS TO ASK:

Can you describe what you do on a typical day at work? What are the most interesting or frustrating parts of your Job? What qualifications/skills does your organisation look for in its staff? What specific advice would you give to a person entering this field? and What are the growth prospects for this field in the future.

It may be appropriate to ask. Does your organisation offer flexible working hours or have policies around equity and diversity?

Addressing Job Application Selection CriteriaWORKING WITH SELECTION CRITERIA

Selection criteria are the key competencies required for a position; they include the skills, knowledge, experience, values and personal attributes required.

When selection criteria are provided

Government departments throughout Australia have a system whereby all the details of a position are available for applicants to help them prepare their application. This includes a position description and the skills and knowledge required (often referred to as the Selection Criteria or Knowledge and Skills Required).

Some non-government and industry employers also produce formal selection criteria for applicants.

There are two types of criteria; essential and desirable. As an applicant you must address each criteria.

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When selection criteria are not provided

If the organisation does not have any formal criteria for you to address, you must still tailor your application to their needs. You can do this by using some of the key words in the advertisement and attaching a supporting statement which is prepared in the same way as formal selection criteria.

When minimal information is provided

In very rare circumstances you will be provided with little or no information about the knowledge and skills that are required. In this case all you can do is prepare a very strong covering letter setting out your particular claims to the position.

BASIC GUIDELINES FORADDRESSING SELECTION CRITERIA

The basic guidelines for addressing selection criteria are as follows:

Collect the information you need:

obtain the position description; find out the knowledge and skills required; ask further questions to clarify issues by contacting personnel (indicated in the

advertisement or position description); and don't assume any details without checking.

Identify each criteria

Write each criteria on a separate page and break it up into distinct, workable parts. For example, if one of the criteria statements reads ''must have strong written and oral communication skills, the ability to work well in a team as well as high level negotiation and liaison skills", you need to divide the statement up as follows:

strong written and oral communication skills; the ability to work well in a team; high level negotiation skills; and high level liaison skills.

Brainstorm your examples You must address each of these parts, giving fairly equal attention to each. For each part, brainstorm as many examples as possible of your background in this area. Don't be too selective at this stage about what to include.

Revise and refine

When you have completed the brainstorm for all the criteria, go back and select the examples that you think best address each one. You'll find you'll do a bit of 'cutting and pasting' before you end up with the most appropriate and powerful examples under each heading. Make sure that you use a variety of experiences throughout your statement. Be careful not to use your involvement in a particular activity (no matter how significant) as evidence for every criteria.

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WRITING UP THE SELECTIONCRITERIA

When addressing selection criteria, it is useful to apply the STAR model. Placing examples of how you have demonstrated your skills into the STAR model is critical for developing an effective statement.

The STAR acronym stands for:

Situation (briefly describe the context); Task (what were your responsibilities or initiatives?); Action (what did you do?); and Result (what were the outcomes?).

For each criteria:

write the name of each criteria; start with a positive claim, using an active verb from the list of buzz words; give a specific example; describe how you acted, and describe the result - what difference did it make to the company/team.

Other tips to keep in mind when addressing selection criteria Dot point form and/or concise sentences make your application easier to read; Use examples to back up every statement you make (use examples which can be

visualised); Don't just feed their words back to them - make every sentence count by focusing on

what you have to offer; For a listing of words you can use in your statements, see the list of buzz words at the

end of this fact sheet; Devote approximately - a page to each criteria; When each criteria is given a weighting of importance you should dedicate a

proportionate amount of detail to each part; and When a statement asks for qualifications or some other information that is finite, the

length can be shorter.

EDITING CHECKLIST

Before submitting your application you should check your selection criteria against thefollowing checklist:

professional, active and fits the role; logical and consistent; checked for errors and edited for order; and focus; check tense; reduce complex sentences; check over-writing; avoid abbreviations; avoid weakening qualifiers; and most important information first.

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A FINAL NOTE

Given that selection criteria forms the basis for employers when designing their interview questions; preparation for the next stage of the job search process, that is the interview, is much more straight forward when you know exactly what the employer is looking for. At interviews candidates are usually asked questions that are directly related to the selection criteria. This allows you to prepare responses that are an extension of what you have written in your Statement Addressing Selection Criteria.

Interview SkillsThe job interview is undoubtedly the most important aspect of the selection process. Your aim is to convince the interviewers that you are the best person for the job. If you have been successful in gaining an interview then you should take pride in the fact that your application has been competitive.

Why is an interview important?

The interview is your opportunity to sell yourself; and An interview should be looked at from two perspectives, yours and theirs! The

employer will be trying to assess what you can offer the organisation. Once this has been determined, most employers will then consider how you will fit into the organisation.

TYPES OF INTERVIEWS

Face to Face

These are often conducted in front of a panel of interviewers, often three people, or they can be one to one interviews. As well as discussing answers to the given questions you may be required to complete a written or practical test, or participate in a group role-play.

The interview may include a walk around the work site, meeting other staff and chatting informally about the job. Remember that an assessment of you and your skills is likely to be happening at every stage of the meeting.

Telephone or Video Link (see Telephone Interviews fact sheet).

INTERVIEW SKILLS

Below are some skills that are very useful in an interview:

Active listening

High level listening in which your entire attention is focused on the person speaking.

Control of the content

Let the interviewer control the questions process while you control the content.

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Let others speak for you It may be useful to include quotes from others such as "My boss felt some of my most valuable attributes were that I could always be counted on to get a project done on schedule and that the details had all been taken care of ''.

Research the organisation

Demonstrate that you have read up on the organisation. This could include annual reports, recruiting brochures, Yellow Pages, web sites and any other relevant background material.

Master the art of story-telling

Using stories to sell your skills is a highly successful interview technique. In less than three minutes you can tell a story that will make interviewers remember you favourably. Employers believe that the best predictor of future success is past success, so tell stories that vividly describe your successes. Don't be concerned if your stories are not highly impressive, as long as the experience demonstrates your effective use of a particular skill.

RESEARCH BEFORE AN INTERVIEW

The more thorough your preparation for the interview, the more control you will have over the situation. You will feel less nervous if you are well prepared. There are four ways that you should prepare for an interview.

1. The Position

Make sure you understand what the position is about. Ask for a copy of the Position Description from the employer and make sure you understand all the information it contains. If you have any questions about the Position Description ask the employer for clarification.

2. The Organisation

Understand the employer's needs and the business culture. Research about the organisation could include talking to other employees, competitors, perusal of an annual report or just an enthusiastic phone call to a secretary requesting more information. More specific research prior to an interview may include gathering information about the interviewers and the expected style and content of the interview.

3. Your Application's Strengths and Weaknesses

Always review your application, as you may need to refer to it during the interview. Be prepared to talk about your application in terms of the Key Selection Criteria. Take copies of any certificates you may have referred to in your application.

4. Yourself

Be prepared mentally for the interview. Ensure you are well groomed, well dressed and well rested.

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YOUR PRESENTATION AT AN INTERVIEW

First impressions

Creating a good first impression is vital.

Employers only have a short time to gather as much information about you as they can, so the way you look and act will be a key factor in the information they gather. You should look and sound professional and feel comfortable. Avoid extremes of fashion and style unless research into the dress code of the organisation indicates that it would be suitable.

Make a positive start

Be prepared to firmly shake the hand of your interviewer/s regardless of gender. If this situation does not occur, take time to make direct eye contact with everybody in the room greeting them with a friendly smile. This introductory body language will sometimes be enough for some interviewers to make their minds up.

Be aware of your body language

During the interview maintain eye contact with the entire selection panel and not just the person at the head of the table. Adopt an enthusiastic posture by sitting up straight and slightly forward. Avoid crossing your arms or covering up your smile. A good place for your hands is in your lap. If you have thoroughly prepared for the interview then it is likely that your body language will work for you and not against you, reflecting a confident and enthusiastic applicant.

Don't forget your personality!

An interview is an interpersonal exchange, but some candidates go into an interview and leave their personalities at the door. Engaging the panel is an important part of the process - remember they're looking to see who is going to 'fit in' best in the organisation. One of the main qualities being assessed at an interview is your communication skills. Smiling, seeking clarification of questions, using low key appropriate humour and generally being an active rather than passive participant in the process, enables you to display these skills to the panel.

What will I be assessed on?

In an interview a candidate will be assessed on their:

ability to provide comprehensive answers that include real-life examples; dress and grooming, confidence and ability; ability to speak clearly and listen well, understanding of the job; and motivation and enthusiasm

INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

The best way to make sure that you will answer questions well is to prepare some possible answers beforehand. Of course you cannot predict the exact wording of questions, but

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basically interviewers are always looking for similar information. There is no hidden agenda about what they want to find out. Interviewers ask questions that enable them to build up a picture of how you are likely to operate in the workplace. Knowing this, you need to reflect on the experiences you've had and prepare responses that demonstrate your skills and experiences.

Link to your selection criteria responses

If the organisation has listed key selection criteria, you can be sure that there will be a number of questions that directly relate to them. Be prepared to give verbal answers that don't conflict with the written responses you have already tabled. Avoid the temptation to say ''The information has been given in the written application'' - this will make you appear arrogant and inflexible. It is worth remembering that it is possible that some interviewers have not had the opportunity to read your application.

Seek clarification

Never begin to answer a question that you don't fully understand, ask for clarification. It is also OK to think about an answer for a short time. This is preferable to launching into a vague and unclear response.

Effective answering techniques

Questions should be answered with enthusiasm: one-word answers are never sufficient. Even the simplest of questions can be answered in a way that shows something of your creative personality. As a guide, your response to each question should take approximately 1-2 minutes After explaining, as concisely as possible, how the key examples you have presented address the question, you should then check with the panel to see if they require any further detail or clarification.

Use the body language of the panel to help you judge if you are connecting with the panel members. Be wary of 'raving on' and boring them, as well as being too brief and thereby making it difficult for the panel to gain adequate insight into your skills.

Your questions

At some point in the interview you may be given the opportunity to ask questions. You should use this opportunity to clarify any points that are unclear in relation to the position you are applying for. Be careful to choose relevant questions. Time wasting will score very badly. Ideally your questions should reflect your research into the position and/or the organisation.

EXAMPLES OF INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

Interviewee's Questions What is the organisation's attitude to further training? A question about the changes happening at industry level is good practice. It shows

that you are aware of and interested in the 'big-picture'; and Are there established career paths?

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Interviewer's Questions Why are you interested in joining this organisation? What do you believe you can contribute to this company? Why did you select .. . as a career? Can you give us an example of your use of initiative - either in starting a new venture or

doing more than was required in a particular activity)? What are your major strengths? What would you describe as your weaknesses? What do you regard as your most important accomplishments? What does teamwork mean to you? What are the biggest obstacles you have had to overcome and how did you overcome

them? and If you were going to evaluate your own performance, what factors would you consider

the most important?

Telephone Interviews Imagine several interviewers staring at the speakerphone in front of them. They may

have interviewed other candidates in person ... and now it's your turn; The interviewer's impression of you will be based on your voice and your answers. You

will have no chance to read the body language of your interviewers nor will you be able to communicate using all of your senses. You will also be relying on the quality of the speakerphone at the other end; and

An advantage of telephone interviews is that you are able to have notes right in front of you and you have the comfort of familiar surroundings.

INTERVIEW PREPARATION

Preparing for telephone interviews is similar to preparing for face- to-face interviews. Researching the employer is identical for both formats, however there are some special tips for a successful telephone Interview; and

Don't make your first telephone interview a practice interview - do a few mock interviews by phone with friends or relatives and record them so that you pick up any imperfections in your answers, your tone or conciseness.

PRIOR TO THE INTERVIEW

Make sure you create a comfortable and quiet location in which you can concentrate on the questions from the interviewer. Try to locate the telephone next to a large table or desk where you can lay out all the material you want to use in the interview.

Things you will need: your current resume; a list of answers to common questions (see Interview Skills Fact Sheet); examples of your experience, skills and achievements; your company research (all dot pointed to prompt you); your application letter and points addressing the selection criteria; a notepad and pen;

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a glass of water; and a watch and calculator may also be useful.

Some authors suggest that you dress as you would if the interview were face-to-face, thereby creating a professional atmosphere and making you really feel the part. It may be useful to use a mirror to notice whether you appear bored or interested and enthusiastic. Your voice will portray this feeling. The main aim though is to be comfortable.

When the telephone rings: Introduce yourself, greet the interviewer/s and thank them for offering you the

interview; Speak clearly (not in a monotone voice) and at a level that can be heard. Check with

the panel that the sound and noise level from your end is clear before you begin; Make the interviewer/s feel at ease - they probably don't like the telephone interview

process any more than you do; and During the telephone interview you will be judged by the same non-verbal criteria used

in an in-person interview, that is, self-confidence, enthusiasm for the position and pleasant personality.

In a telephone interview, the interviewer/s will determine these attributes by the sound of your voice and your level of friendliness and engagement with them. You might consider sending a photo of yourself to give them visual cues about you – perhaps ask the chairperson prior to the interview if a photo would be useful to the panel.

OTHER USEFUL TIPS Answers to questions should not be long- winded. Note down the key points of the

question as it is read to you and then respond to the question taking care to address each aspect of it;

It is vitally important that you use examples of your skills and knowledge to enable the interviewer/s to visualise your achievements;

Be concise. You won't be able to see whether the interviewer's eyes have glazed over or if they have nodded off in response to your answer. Also, be aware that some conference links sound very empty when no one is speaking. Don't be put off by the silence, but tell the panel you are pausing or thinking;

Guide the interviewer/s by highlighting main points so they don't drift away from focusing on you and your talents;

Summarise key points at the end of each criteria; Always seek clarification of a question if you are not sure you heard it correctly; and At the end of the interview, reiterate your key attributes and reasons why you should be

considered for the position.

Good luck with your interview!

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Notes & Contacts

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NDCO Region 20

Debbie Rooskov

(07) 5458 3063 or 0400 721 451

[email protected]

www.ndco.stepscs.net.au

www.facebook.com/ndco.qld.regions

NDCO Region 22

Gary Travers

(07) 4727 2608 or 0488 794 483

[email protected]

www.ndco.stepscs.net.au

www.twitter.com/ndco22

www.facebook.com/ndco.qld.regions