Interview and Job Application Tips

When you are applying for a job, these tips may assist you:

Applying for the job:

  1. Ensure you address your covering letter / email to the correct person.
  2. Ensure you have done a spelling and grammar check on your resume before sending it
  3. Try to keep your resume to less than 6 pages - but it is a selling document so do not sell yourself short.
  4. If you do not hear from the firm or recruiter after sending your resume and cover letter, it does not hurt to call to them to ensure your details were recieved and your application is being processed. (usually allow 1-2 days) 

Before going to the Interview:

  1. Visit the firms web site and do some reasearch on the background of the firm, the team you will be working in and the partners you may report to. Read the news articles on the site to get an idea of the types of recent success the firm has had.
  2. Think about the questions that you would like to answered in the interview.
  3. Think of several positive examples from your current or past jobs you can use throughout the interview relating to things like teamwork, successful outcomes or big wins and working under pressure or in time critical situations. If you have somewhere between 3-5 examples prepared in your mind you will be in great shape.
  4. Gather all of your information relating to your billing targets and billable hours. If applicable, think of new buisness you have built yourself and clients that you have developed over time. You do not need to give client names, but figures relating to the clients may be neccessary. Example 1 - I inherited a client whom was bringing in $3,000 per month and I have developed this client up to $15,000 per month. Example 2 - I developed 3 new clients last year each now turning over $8,000 per month.

At the interview:

  1. Look the part - dress appropriately
  2. Be 10 minutes early, NOT 1 minute late. (If for some reason you are running late, before your assigned interview time, call to let them know)
  3. Introduce yourself to the receptionist and ask for the people involved in the interview. Be friendly and if appropriate, ask the receptionist some questions. examples: How long have you been here? Do you like working here? What is the culture like here? Ensure that the receptionist is not too busy before you start asking him/her any questions.  
  4. Rehearse how you are going to answer questions on your strengths, experience and achievements etc and go over the examples you have already prepared in your head
  5. Ensure you ask the questions you had prepared.
  6. If the job or the firm does not appeal, do not accept the position or continue the interview process - Always remember - an interview is a 2 way street. You need to convince the firm that you would be a valuable asset to their business however, the firm needs to convince you that it is a good idea to join them as well.
  7. Do not be negative in an interview, for example: Why do you wish to leave your current employer? This question often brings out a negative, think about how you answer it. Make your answer very brief, then finish off with a positive comment.
  8. At the end of the interview, if you feel the job is what you are looking for, ask the interviewer in your own words - When will you be making the decision as I think this would be a great opportunity. Show enthusiasm for the position.
  9. If you are not successful, say thank you for your consideration, and should another position arise, I would appreciate being considered. Do not argue the point, accept it and leave the door open for future opportunities
  10. If your first interview is with a recruitment consultant, treat it with the same level of importance as the firm. Remember recruitment consultants make the decision on whether or not you meet the employer.

If nothing else - always remember these things:

1. An interview is a 2 way street. You need to convince the firm that you would be a valuable asset to their business however, the firm needs to convince you that it is a good idea for you to join them.

2. Preparation is a must!!  Think of positive examples that you can use during the interview and do your research.

3. Everything discussed in an interview is confidential so do not hold back - do not sell yourself short.

GOOD LUCK.