Chapter 10: Communicating for Employment

Question 1

What is competency in the context of work?

Answer 1

Competency refers to the ongoing development of integrated knowledge, skills, attitudes, and behaviors required to perform work successfully. It is measurable and observable and relates to work and work experience

Question 2

What are some questions to consider when assessing your skills and values?

Answer 2

Who are you?
What are your values, interests, and marketable skills?
What drew you to your program of study?
What are you good at?
What are you most interested in doing?
Are you willing to acquire new skills or retrain for advancement?
Where do you see yourself in five or ten years?
What trade-offs are you willing to make for job satisfaction

Question 3

What are some questions to consider when assessing your work preferences and personality?

Answer 3

Are you an introvert or an extrovert?
Do you prefer to work in a large organization or a small one?
Do you enjoy working with people, materials, ideas, or data?
Do you best succeed when working in a group or alone?
Do you prefer a leading or supporting role? How much freedom do you need?
Do you appreciate and apply feedback?
Do you prefer fast-paced or slow-paced work? What type of work interests you?
Are you open to challenges and risks, even if they make your job less secure?
Would you rather be a specialist or a generalist?
What rewards do you want from your job?

Question 4

What are some questions to consider when assessing your work history?

Answer 4

What accomplishments are you most proud of?
What is the best praise you’ve received for your work, and why is it meaningful to you?
What work tasks, experiences, and relationships have you found most satisfying?
What work experiences have you disliked?
How well do you communicate and learn on the job?
What hard and soft skills can you offer a prospective employer?

Question 5

What are some competencies and soft skills to consider in the job search and application process?

Answer 5

Approach to work (flexibility and resourcefulness)
Knowledge and quality of work
Organization and time/task management
Client service orientation and social sensitivity
Communication and interpersonal skills
Leadership, teamwork, and team skills
Analytical thinking/problem-solving/decision-making
Result achievements and ability to cope with responsibility
Professional development and interest in lifelong learning

Question 6

What are the steps involved in a successful job search campaign?

Answer 6

The steps involved in a successful job search campaign include:

Studying the job market
Building professional networks
Identifying sources of employment
Learning about preferred organizations
Establishing an online presence
Matching skills and training to suitable positions

Question 7

What are some tips for using social media in a job search?

Answer 7

Utilize platforms that are popular in your industry and align with your personal brand.
Examples include LinkedIn for marketing professionals and Instagram for visual artists.
Engage with industry professionals and organizations to expand your network.
Showcase your skills, experience, and accomplishments through your social media profiles.
Follow or like companies of interest to stay updated on job opportunities and company updates

Question 8

What are some electronic job-search techniques?

Answer 8

Utilizing general job-bank websites, niche or industry-specific job sites, and company websites to search for job postings.

Posting your resume online and setting up job alerts for your areas of interest.

Adapting to mobile job searching by saving jobs for later application on a computer, saving your resume for quick access, and leveraging integrated application methods.

Reading newspapers, trade and professional journals, and business magazines for career pages and classified ads.
Joining professional and trade associations for regular job opening listings.

Decoding job advertisements to understand job titles, qualifications, job duties, company information, and application instructions.

Question 9

What is person-organization fit?

Answer 9

Person-organization fit refers to the compatibility between a job-seeker and an organization based on shared characteristics and meeting each other’s needs. It involves factors such as organizational justice, job characteristics, psychological contract, motivation, rewards, leadership, and working relationship quality.

Question 10

What is person-job fit?

Answer 10

Person-job fit refers to the match between a person’s abilities and the demands of a job. It influences involvement and career commitment. Assessing person-job fit helps determine whether to apply for a job, and it is also evaluated by references and screeners during the application process.

Question 11

How can networking be effective in job hunting?

Answer 11

Networking is an essential tool for job hunting and professional success. Strategies to enhance networking effectiveness include getting involved in community and volunteer activities, attending networking events and conferences, participating in mentorship programs, joining professional societies, and conducting online networking through social media groups and platforms. Building relationships and seeking advice from knowledgeable contacts in your field can lead to valuable opportunities.

Question 12

What are some strategies for effective networking?

Answer 12

Having well-designed business cards for exchanging contact information.

Following up with lead contacts after networking events through messages, connecting on LinkedIn, or following each other on social media.

Crafting an elevator pitch, a concise introduction that highlights your value proposition to prospective employers or influential contacts.

Conducting informational interviews with professionals in your desired field to gain insights and expand your network.

Optimizing your online professional brand by managing your digital footprint and privacy settings and consistently updating your online presence.

Exploring the hidden job market by sending unsolicited letters of application, making cold-call inquiries, and participating in job recruitment fairs.

Question 13

What are some additional tips for job hunting?

Answer 13

Additional tips for job hunting include utilizing career centers or employment agencies, considering summer internships or co-op jobs for valuable experience, dedicating sufficient time and effort to the job search, and continuously improving interpersonal and communication skills for effective interactions with employers.

Question 14

What are the steps for creating an attention-grabbing LinkedIn profile?

Answer 14

Include a professional headshot, name, professional headline, location, and industry.

Complete the intro section with a brief statement describing who you are as a professional.

Connect with people you know and build a strong network.
Provide details of your experience, education, and skills. Use keywords to highlight your expertise.

Write a compelling “About” summary that demonstrates your expertise and includes industry-related keywords.
Customize your public profile address with your name for easy sharing.

Enrich your profile with visual content such as presentations or videos.

Solicit endorsements and recommendations from colleagues, supervisors, and mentors.

Keep your profile updated with fresh achievements and professional development.

Question 15

What is the purpose of LinkedIn groups?

Answer 15

LinkedIn groups allow users to engage in discussions with industry professionals outside of their immediate network. Membership in these groups provides access to valuable insights and networking opportunities.

Question 16

How can Twitter be used to establish an online presence?

Answer 16

Twitter can be used to establish an online presence by sharing industry-related content, engaging in conversations with professionals in your field, and showcasing your expertise through tweets. It is a platform for building a professional network and staying up-to-date with industry trends and news.

Question 17

How do employers typically review resumés?

Answer 17

Employers often spend a minute or less perusing each resumé due to the high volume of applications. They may use electronic job-tracking systems and keyword matching to screen applicants.

Question 18

hat writing style should be used in a resumé?

Answer 18

Resumés require a tight, clipped, and action-oriented writing style. Telegraphic phrases with action verbs are used instead of complete sentences. The focus is on results and quantifiable details.

Question 19

How should information be presented in a resumé?

Answer 19

Information should be presented in a clear and organized manner. Headings can be emphasized with capitals or boldface. Consistent indenting and spacing between sections can help information stand out.

Question 20

What are the common sections in a standard resumé?

Answer 20

The common sections in a standard resumé include:

Name and Contact Information,

Objective/Career Profile,

Summary of Qualifications/Profile,

Education,

Experience,

Skills and Capabilities,

Awards/Honours and Activities,

and References (optional).

Question 21

How should contact information be presented in a resumé?

Answer 21

Contact information should include your full name, e-mail address, and phone numbers. It is best to omit personal information such as permanent address or date of birth for privacy reasons.

Question 22

What is the purpose of a career objective in a resumé?

Answer 22

A career objective is an optional section that provides a short summary of your qualifications and anticipated career path. It helps you target a specific job and should be revised for each application.

Question 23

What details should be included in the education section of a resumé?

Answer 23

The education section should include all degrees, diplomas, and certificates earned or about to be earned. Include the degree, academic honours, institution, location, major field of study, and dates of attendance/graduation

Question 24

How should work experience be presented in a resumé?

Answer 24

Work experience should be listed in reverse chronological order, including full-time, part-time, unpaid jobs, internships, volunteer work, and self-employment. Include job titles, company names and locations, dates of employment, and detailed descriptions of duties and accomplishments.

Question 25

What is the purpose of the skills and capabilities section in a resumé?

Answer 25

The skills section highlights your abilities and proficiencies that make you more employable. It can include technical skills, computer programs, foreign language fluency, and other relevant competencies.

Question 26

Can personal information be included in a resumé?

Answer 26

No, personal information such as age, marital status, or health should not be included in a resumé. Employers are not allowed to ask for such details, and human rights legislation protects job applicants from discrimination.

Question 27

How should references be included in a resumé?

Answer 27

It is sufficient to state “References will be supplied on request” on the resumé. Prepare a separate reference list with the names, titles, affiliations, addresses, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses of your references to provide during interviews. Always obtain permission from your references beforehand

Question 28

What is the general rule for resumé length?

Answer 28

The general rule is to keep the resumé to one page as long as there is enough white space. Recent graduates can usually fit their information on one page, while applicants with extensive work history may require a second page.

Question 29

What are the three most widely used resumé styles?

Answer 29

The three most widely used resumé styles are chronological, functional, and combination.

Question 30

What is a chronological resumé?

Answer 30

A chronological resumé presents information in reverse chronological order, focusing on work experience, education, skills, honours/activities, and references. It works well for applicants with work experience and career growth.

Question 31

What is a functional resumé?

Answer 31

A functional resumé emphasizes skills and competencies, showcasing relevant attributes and accomplishments. It is suitable for applicants changing careers or with limited work experience, and highlights skills gained through volunteer work

Question 32

What is a combination resumé?

Answer 32

A combination resumé combines elements of both chronological and functional styles. It provides a complete employment record while also highlighting skills and capabilities. It is a good choice for recent graduates with skills but limited experience.

Question 33

What are some general tips for resumé writing?

Answer 33

Some general tips include telling the truth, keeping the resumé up to date, creating different versions for different purposes, fine-tuning the resumé for each application, and avoiding gimmicks in formatting and paper choice.

Question 34

What is a scannable resumé?

Answer 34

A scannable resumé is a resumé that is easily read and processed by scanning software used in electronic resumé-tracking systems or database

Question 35

What should be included in a scannable resumé?

Answer 35

A scannable resumé should include keywords that correspond to the ideal candidate described in the job posting. These keywords can include job titles, professional jargon, software programs, marketable skills, and interpersonal traits

Question 36

What are some do’s and don’ts for formatting a scannable resumé?

Answer 36

Do use a reader-friendly font, leave white space for clarity, use as many pages as necessary, and print a crisp copy on a laser printer. Don’t use unusual fonts, special characters, graphics, or coloured/textured paper, and avoid folding, stapling, or faxing the resumé.

Question 37

When can a creative or non-standard resumé be used?

Answer 37

A creative or non-standard resumé can be used in creative fields or for positions with a visual dimension, such as graphic design or videography. However, even in creative fields, employers often request a standard resumé accompanied by work samples or a portfolio.

Question 38

What is the purpose of a cover letter?

Answer 38

A cover letter introduces you to a prospective employer, interprets the information in your resumé, and convinces the employer that you are qualified for the job. It highlights your skills and experience and explains how they align with the requirements of the specific job

Question 39

What are some general tips for writing a cover letter?

Answer 39

Avoid overusing first-person pronouns.

Use proper grammar and spelling.

Incorporate keywords from the job ad or posting.

Use the same font as your resumé for a unified look.

Use shorter paragraphs for readability.

Be positive and self-confident.

Customize each cover letter for the specific job opening.

Strive for a tight and clear writing style within the recommended length of one page.

Question 40

Why should you avoid a generic cover letter?

Answer 40

A generic cover letter is less likely to gain interest from employers. Customizing each cover letter to the specific job opening allows you to highlight your qualifications, achievements, and credentials that are relevant to the position.

Question 41

What should you include in a cover letter?

Answer 41

A cover letter should include an introduction, an explanation of your qualifications and experience, a connection between your skills and the job requirements, and a closing paragraph expressing your interest in the position and willingness to further discuss your qualifications.

Question 42

How long should a cover letter be?

Answer 42

A cover letter should be no longer than one page, but it should not be less than half a page. It should be concise yet provide enough information to persuade the reader of your qualifications and interest in the job.

Question 43

What is a solicited application letter?

Answer 43

A solicited application letter is a letter in which a job-seeker applies to an advertised position and asks for an interview.

Question 44

What is the purpose of a solicited application letter?

Answer 44

The purpose of a solicited application letter is to ask for an interview, not for the actual job. It aims to convince prospective employers that the applicant is not only qualified for the job but is better than other candidates

Question 45

How should you begin an introductory paragraph in a solicited application letter?

Answer 45

In the introductory paragraph, you should name the specific job you are applying for and indicate where you learned about the job.

You can include job competition or reference numbers to ensure your application reaches the right hands.

Clearly state that you are applying for the job and briefly show that you possess the major qualifications listed as requirements in the job posting

Question 46

What are some examples of opening statements in a solicited application letter?

Answer 46

“With five years’ experience as an industrial designer, I would like to be considered for the position of design team leader currently advertised on your company’s website.”

“A recent survey of the Canadian industrial sector ranked Weir Services first in the repair and refurbishing of mechanical equipment. I am interested in joining the expert, customer-focused Weir sales team because I share your company’s belief in quality and dependability. With a soon-to-be-completed degree in sales management and two years’ experience in industrial service sales, I am prepared to be an immediately productive member of your sales team.”

“I wish to apply for the position of regional sales manager, as advertised in yesterday’s National Post (competition #4368). As the attached resume suggests, my experience in fashion retail has prepared me for the challenging and dynamic work environment offered by this position.”

“At the suggestion of Mr. Farouk Aziz of your Accounting Department, I submit my qualifications for the position of human resources specialist posted on Workopolis.”

Question 47

How should you demonstrate your qualifications in the middle paragraphs of a solicited application letter?

Answer 47

In the middle paragraphs, you should relate your skills, achievements, and experience to what the company requires.

Use action verbs to describe your abilities and accomplishments.

Emphasize your strongest skills, such as effective communication, taking responsibility, quick learning, and teamwork.

Highlight coursework, summer jobs, internships, and leadership-building activities that set you apart from other applicants.

Refer the reader to your attached resume for more information.

Question 48

How should you end a solicited application letter?

Answer 48

In the closing paragraph, ask for action by requesting an interview or indicating that you will follow up with a call. Maintain a courteous and appreciative tone.

Provide your contact information and express your eagerness to discuss your qualifications further. For example, you can say, “I would like the opportunity to discuss my background and qualifications with you in a personal interview. I look forward to hearing from you and to arranging a meeting in the near future.”

Alternatively, you can state, “After you have examined the details on the attached resume, please call me to arrange an interview at your convenience.

Question 49

Figure 10.5: Use this three-part writing plan for your cover letter

Answer 49

Question 50

What are unsolicited application letters?

Answer 50

Unsolicited application letters, also known as job-prospecting letters, are written when you believe that employers may have an opening for someone with your skills and qualifications in the future, even though no such position has been advertised.

Question 51

What is the purpose of an unsolicited application letter?

Answer 51

The purpose of an unsolicited application letter is to introduce yourself to potential employers and inquire about job openings, even when no specific position has been advertised.

It aims to catch and hold the reader’s attention and convince them of your qualifications and interest in working for their company.

Question 52

What are some tips for writing an effective unsolicited application letter?

Answer 52

Show enthusiasm: Express your genuine interest and excitement about the company and its potential job opportunities.

Use the indirect approach: Use persuasive techniques to engage the reader’s interest and persuade them to consider your application.

Conduct research: Gather information about the company, including its products, personnel, and challenges. This research will enable you to demonstrate your knowledge of the company and align your qualifications with their needs.

Clearly state your reasons: Clearly explain why you want to work for the company, what you are prepared to contribute, and how your qualifications can benefit the company.

Question 53

How can you demonstrate your interest and knowledge of the company in an unsolicited application letter?

Answer 53

Conduct thorough research on the company before writing the letter.

Familiarize yourself with its products, services, mission, values, and recent developments. Use this information to show your genuine interest and understanding of the company.

Highlight specific aspects of the company that align with your skills and qualifications, and explain how you can contribute to its success.

Question 54

What should be clear from an unsolicited application letter?

Answer 54

From your letter, it should be clear why you want to work for the company, what you are prepared to do for it, and how your qualifications can bring benefits. Your enthusiasm, research, and alignment of skills with the company’s needs should shine through in your letter.

Question 55

What is a personal statement?

Answer 55

A personal statement is a career-focused essay, typically 250 to 500 words in length, that is required by some applications.

It serves to articulate essential information about your post-secondary program, qualifications, the fit between the program and position, and your long-term goals.

The personal statement is an opportunity to showcase your writing skills, creativity, and unique qualities.

It should not duplicate other elements of your application but rather interpret and reflectively reframe the information, presenting it in the best possible light to help the employer or admissions committee understand your capabilities and career aspirations.

Question 56

What should be included in the introduction of a personal statement?

Answer 56

The introduction of a personal statement should aim to capture the reader’s attention and make a favorable impression. It is less formulaic than a cover letter. In the introduction, you should state why you are interested in the job, program, or organization and explain your reasons for applying. It is important to convey your enthusiasm and interest right from the start.

Question 57

How should supporting paragraphs be structured in a personal statement?

Answer 57

Supporting paragraphs in a personal statement should provide specific and relevant examples of how you have applied your skills or knowledge from your degree or share anecdotes or stories about your professional development or experience.

Each paragraph should focus on a particular aspect of your professional skillset or reason for applying.

Begin each paragraph with a topic sentence for a logical flow and use the slightly more generous length of a personal statement to provide depth and detail.

Question 58

What should be included in the conclusion of a personal statement?

Answer 58

The conclusion of a personal statement should bring together the main points discussed in the supporting paragraphs and draw the reader to a clear and compelling conclusion about your fit for the program, internship, or career.

It should reinforce why you are the right candidate and leave a strong final impression.

Question 59

What qualities should a personal statement demonstrate?

Answer 59

A personal statement should demonstrate clarity of thought, enthusiasm, and knowledge of the program, job, or organization.

Employers and program directors are looking for individuals who can effectively communicate their qualifications, show genuine interest, and align their skills with the needs of the organization or program.

The content of your personal statement should reflect these qualities and explain what you can bring to the organization or program.

Question 60

What are some tips for emailing cover letters and resumes?

Answer 60

Read application instructions carefully to ensure that the company accepts emailed resumes and follow any specific requirements or preferences they have.

Use keywords that match the job ad or your field to optimize your document for screening processes and resumé databases.

Include a cover letter in the body of your email, even if you attach your resumé. If attaching a resumé, include the same cover letter as the first item in the attachment.

Make the subject line specific by mentioning the job title or reference number if applicable.

Submit attachments in the requested format or convert them to PDF format for consistent formatting. If attachments are not allowed, submit your cover letter and resume in plain-text format in the body of the email, without fancy formatting.

Keep track of the companies you have applied to and maintain a professional online presence, including an appropriate email address and voicemail greeting.

Consider privacy and confidentiality when posting your resumé online, limiting the information shared and using password-protected platforms accessible only to legitimate employers.

Ensure your application is delivered on time and in the appropriate manner, following any instructions provided by the company’s employment opportunities webpage or job posting

Question 61

What is a portfolio?

Answer 61

A portfolio is a collection of samples that demonstrate how you can apply your knowledge, values, and expertise in various products or projects.

It can include a wide range of materials such as brochures, presentations, marketing materials, papers, studies, project descriptions, reports, and more.

A portfolio may also include explanations or reflections to help the reader understand the purpose of each piece of work.

Additionally, it can include a statement of career goals, details of research projects, professional development activities, volunteer work, letters of recommendation, and references

Question 62

What is an e-portfolio?

Answer 62

An e-portfolio, or electronic portfolio, is a digital format of a portfolio.

It is a collection of information, evidence, and supporting reflections presented in an electronic format to demonstrate your development, skills, and competencies.

E-portfolios are commonly used in post-graduate programs and provide a convenient way to showcase your work and achievements

Question 63

How can a video be used in job applications?

Answer 63

Videos are increasingly being used by job seekers to enhance their application and by HR managers as a required component, particularly for customer-facing roles.

There are two main types of job application videos: pre-recorded videos and live interviews conducted via platforms like Skype or Google Hangout.

Pre-recorded videos can be used to make an impact, replace a traditional resume, or provide one-way interview answers to pre-set questions.

Job application videos offer an opportunity to express individuality and personality, but it’s important to be mindful of potential biases related to age, ethnicity, and gender.

Question 64

What are some tips for creating a strong video application?

Answer 64

Dress appropriately, considering what you would wear on the job. Choose light-colored, pattern-free clothing that will photograph well.

Pay attention to your surroundings and minimize distractions. Find a quiet space where you won’t be interrupted or affected by background noise. Record yourself against a well-lit, neutral background.

Create a script as a general guide, but avoid reciting it word-for-word. Over-reliance on a script can hinder your delivery and break eye contact with the camera. Maintain a positive demeanor and make your qualifications meaningful through examples.

Aim for a video length between one and three minutes. Start by introducing yourself and avoid simply listing your qualifications. Use examples to showcase your skills and maintain a positive attitude.

Use video editing software, such as iMovie or free alternatives, to improve the viewing experience. Optimize image and sound quality to ensure a professional presentation.

Question 65

What is a job interview?

Answer 65

A job interview is a structured, face-to-face conversation between one or more recruiters and a job candidate. It is an opportunity for the candidate to showcase their qualifications, skills, and potential performance for a specific position. The interview serves as an assessment of the candidate’s fit for the job and allows the employer to evaluate their suitability for the role.

Question 66

How can I prepare for a job interview?

Answer 66

Research the potential employer: Spend at least an hour researching the company and the job you’re applying for. Learn about their values, goals, products or services, corporate structure, culture, and competitors. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your interest and understanding during the interview.

Pay attention to non-verbal communication: Be aware of your body language, posture, facial expressions, and gestures. Practice open body language and avoid nervous habits that may distract the interviewer.

Dress appropriately: Dress in a manner that reflects the corporate culture. Choose an outfit that is slightly more formal than what you would wear on the job. Good grooming and personal hygiene are essential.

Anticipate interview questions: Prepare for common interview questions and think about how you would respond. Consider your skills, experiences, and achievements that are relevant to the job. Practice your responses to sound natural and spontaneous.

Prepare questions to ask: Think of insightful questions to ask the interviewer that will demonstrate your interest and understanding of the company. Asking thoughtful questions shows your engagement and enthusiasm for the role.

Practice and rehearse: Practice your interview skills by filming yourself answering typical interview questions. Assess your performance and make improvements. The more interviews you experience, the more comfortable and confident you will become

Question 67

How should I behave during a job interview?

Answer 67

Show enthusiasm and confidence: Express your enthusiasm for the job and the company. Be confident in your skills and abilities.

Maintain eye contact and good posture: Make eye contact with the interviewer(s) and sit upright with good posture. This conveys attentiveness and confidence.

Listen actively: Pay attention to the interviewer’s questions and listen carefully. Take time to understand the question before responding.

Answer questions thoughtfully: Provide clear and concise answers to interview questions. Use examples from your experiences to support your answers.

Be authentic and genuine: Be yourself and let your true personality shine through. Authenticity is valued by employers.

Show respect and professionalism: Treat everyone you encounter during the interview process with respect, including receptionists and other staff members. Use professional language and avoid slang or inappropriate language.

Follow-up with a thank-you note: After the interview, send a thank-you note or email to express your appreciation for the opportunity and to reiterate your interest in the position.

Question 68

How can I reduce nervousness before a job interview?

Answer 68

Prepare and practice: Thoroughly prepare for the interview by researching the company, anticipating questions, and practicing your responses. The more prepared you are, the more confident you will feel.

Visualize success: Visualize yourself performing well in the interview and receiving a positive outcome. Positive visualization can help boost your confidence.

Deep breathing and relaxation techniques: Practice deep breathing exercises or other relaxation techniques before the interview to help calm your nerves.

Focus on your enthusiasm: Remind yourself of your enthusiasm for the job and the opportunity to showcase your skills. Let your passion for the work drive you.

Have faith in yourself: Believe in your abilities and the value you bring to the table. Have confidence in your qualifications and experiences.

Gain interview experience: The more interviews you experience, the more comfortable you will become. Treat each interview as a learning opportunity and a chance to improve your skills.

Question 69

What are behavioural interview questions?

Answer 69

Behavioural interview questions are questions that require candidates to provide specific examples from their past experiences in order to demonstrate their skills, abilities, and qualities.

These questions aim to assess a candidate’s behaviour and performance in various work situations.

Instead of hypothetical questions, behavioural interview questions focus on real-life scenarios that candidates have encountered in the past.

Question 70

How should I prepare for behavioural interview questions?

Answer 70

Understand the job requirements: Review the job description and identify the key skills, competencies, and qualities that are required for the position. This will help you anticipate the types of behavioural questions that may be asked.

Use the STARS technique: The STARS technique is a structured approach to answering behavioural interview questions. It stands for Situation, Task, Action, Result, and Skills. When preparing your responses, outline the situation or context, describe the task or challenge you faced, explain the actions you took to address the situation, highlight the results or outcomes of your actions, and reflect on the skills and qualities you utilized.

Identify relevant examples: Select three or more examples from your past experiences that align with the competencies and skills required for the job. Choose examples where you successfully handled challenges, achieved positive results, demonstrated leadership or teamwork, or showcased other relevant abilities.

Practice your responses: Rehearse your responses to behavioural interview questions. Use the STARS technique to structure your answers and make sure you provide specific details and examples. Practice speaking confidently and concisely.

Be prepared for follow-up questions: During the interview, the interviewer may ask follow-up questions to further explore your examples or dive deeper into specific situations. Be ready to provide additional details or explain the impact of your actions.

Showcase your skills and qualities: When answering behavioural questions, emphasize the skills, competencies, and qualities that are relevant to the job. Demonstrate your problem-solving abilities, time management skills, leadership qualities, teamwork and collaboration skills, creativity, and results-oriented mindset

Question 71

How should I conduct myself during the interview?

Answer 71

Be punctual: Arrive on time or a few minutes early for the interview. Plan your route in advance and allow for any unexpected delays. Being late can create a negative impression and show a lack of respect for the interviewer’s time.

Attend the interview alone: Unless you require physical assistance, it’s best to attend the interview alone. Leave family and friends at home as their presence may distract you and could be seen as unprofessional.

Bring necessary documents: Bring extra copies of your resumé, portfolio, and a reference list. While the interviewer will likely have your resumé, it’s good to have your own copies for reference and to provide if needed.

Display good manners: Be polite and courteous to everyone you encounter during the interview process, including receptionists, assistants, and other staff members. Treat everyone with respect and professionalism.

Make a confident first impression: Greet the interviewer with a firm handshake, maintain eye contact, and introduce yourself clearly. Project confidence and show genuine enthusiasm for the opportunity.

Listen attentively: Pay close attention to the interviewer’s questions and listen carefully. Allow the interviewer to finish asking a question before responding. Active listening demonstrates your interest and understanding.

Communicate clearly: Speak clearly and confidently when answering questions. Avoid using filler words like ums and ahs. Answer questions in a concise and articulate manner. Avoid slang or overly casual language.

Show interest and engagement: Use your body language to convey interest and engagement. Maintain good posture, nod and smile when appropriate, and avoid any gestures or expressions that may indicate boredom or disinterest.

Stay positive: Avoid negative comments about yourself, previous employers, or colleagues. Focus on highlighting your strengths, achievements, and positive experiences. Present yourself as a capable and positive individual.

Demonstrate knowledge: Incorporate relevant information about the company or industry into your responses to demonstrate your research and understanding. Show your enthusiasm and interest in the company.

Avoid salary and benefit discussions: It’s generally not appropriate to discuss salary or benefits during the initial interview. Focus on showcasing your skills, qualifications, and fit for the role. Save salary negotiations for later stages of the hiring process.

Don’t expect an immediate decision: Avoid asking if you got the job at the end of the interview. Most companies need to interview all candidates before making a final decision. Instead, express gratitude for the opportunity and ask about the next steps or when you can expect a decision.

Question 72

What should I do after the interview?

Answer 72

Send a thank-you email: Within 24 hours of the interview, send a personalized thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity to interview. Thank the interviewer for their time, reiterate your interest in the position, and briefly mention something specific from the interview that stood out to you. Keep the email concise and professional.

Take time to consider your options: After the interview, carefully evaluate the job offer and consider whether it aligns with your career goals, values, and overall fit. If you feel uncertain or need more information, it’s acceptable to ask for some time to make a decision. Express your gratitude for the offer and ask for a day or two to consider it. This shows that you take the decision seriously.

Decline the offer tactfully (if necessary): If you have decided to decline the job offer, do so tactfully and respectfully. Express your gratitude for the offer and the opportunity to interview. Provide a brief explanation if you feel comfortable doing so but avoid being negative or critical. Maintain a professional tone and leave the door open for future opportunities with the company.

Follow up if no response: If you haven’t received a response within the timeframe mentioned by the interviewer, it’s acceptable to follow up with a polite email inquiring about the status of your application. Keep the tone professional and express your continued interest in the position. Avoid being pushy or demanding.

Continue your job search: Regardless of the outcome of the interview, it’s important to continue your job search. Keep networking, applying to other positions, and attending interviews. It’s always good to have multiple options and not put all your eggs in one basket.

Question 73

What are some examples of follow-up employment messages?

Answer 73

Follow-Up Message: This message is sent when you haven’t received a response to your resume or haven’t heard back from an employer after an interview within a reasonable time. It expresses your continued interest in the position and company and inquires if any additional information is required. You can briefly indicate the date you submitted your resume or interviewed for the position.

Thank-You Message: This message is sent within 24 hours of an interview to express your appreciation to the interviewer for their time and courtesy. It helps you stand out from other applicants. Refer to the interview date and the exact position you interviewed for. Mention something specific from the conversation that stood out to you and reaffirm your interest in the position and company.

Job-Offer Acknowledgement: This message should be sent immediately upon receiving a job offer, especially if you need time to make a decision. Express your thanks for the offer, reiterate your interest in the company, and indicate the date by which you will make your decision. Briefly state the job title and salary.

Job-Acceptance Message: When accepting a job offer, it’s a good idea to put your acceptance in writing. Restate the job title, salary, and starting date. Clarify any details or special conditions and indicate if there are any forms attached that need to be completed. Express appreciation for the opportunity and confirm your acceptance of the offer.

Job-Refusal Message: If you decide to decline a job offer, it’s important to do so politely and professionally. Thank the employer for the offer and their interest in you. Politely decline the position and express your appreciation. This ensures that future job opportunities will not be adversely affected.

**Reference-Request Message: **When requesting someone to be a reference for you, be sure to ask for permission before listing them. In your request, mention the job you are applying for, its requirements, and the application deadline. Provide an update on any significant recent accomplishments and remind the referee of positive experiences they might remember. Include a copy of your resume to refresh their memory.