Standing out as a candidate #2

What separates the strong from the weak candidates?

31.4 million people in the UK are currently in work. The highest figure recorded since records began. Unemployment is projected to drop to 4.3% by the end of this year. 

So.. with the job market booming, how as a candidate can you stand out?

The first contact with a potential employer is the submission of your CV. So ask yourself. What on your CV sells you as a person? 

"I am a hard working..." - how?

"I have a good attendance record..." - Oh so you actually went to work.

These are bad examples of unique selling points. EVERYBODY has them on their CV.

I don't mean to sound condescending, the point I'm making is you have unlimited time to create an initial digital proposal on why they should employ you. Make it sound exciting. Talk about recent achievements, how you've overcame problems, highlight your personal goals, show a little ambition. Ask yourself "What can I include relevant to the role?"

Do: Tell your success story to date. 

Don't: include marital status and other facts irrelevant to the role on offer.

Grasp the clients attention with the CV and secure an interview.

The first impression you give at interview stage is often considered crucial to your success. The interviewer decides within the first five seconds whether or not they can see you fitting into the company, tough reality. So a firm handshake is a must. Try to reintroduce yourself  "Jamie Clarke nice to meet you" it asserts authority in the friendliest manner.  

Although you may trust your own memory capacity, a pen and paper is essential to take to any interview. How do you expect to retain all the information the interviewer provides - unless you are Mike Ross - if you don't squiggle down a few key words. Even if you aren't writing down anything useful. You'll still look interested. 

Don't let your eyes wander the room. Not only does strong eye contact convey confidence it also exhibits honesty. This doesn't mean sit without blinking staring into the eyes of the interviewer for 45 minutes, that's weird. Maintaining consistent eye contact will build a natural rapport with whoever is conducting the interview. 

You should always dress smart for an interview. Regardless of what the role is. I don't mean a Bond tuxedo, silk lapel and pocket watch; but at the very least dust off that old 'tight around the edges' suit you haven't saw since your aunties wedding in 03 and make an effort. Make sure hair is brushed/styled and never over do it on perfume or aftershave. The back of my nostrils still haven't recovered from the last time I interviewed a candidate who's aroma can only be described as 'chemical warfare'.

"Nice aftershave, did you need to use the whole bottle"

The pen and paper comes handy when it's question time.

"Do you have any questions you would like to ask me".

NEVER SAY "NO" 

Devise a list of at least 4-5 questions about the company, the role, even ask a personal question to the interviewer (Extra brownie points). As long as you aren't asking 'how much the pay is' and 'when you can have your first day off'  it really shows how curious you are about the role available.

Finally...

Close them 
If you have no reservations about me, when do I start.

It may seem arrogant but I personally view it as confidence. Against all other interviews that day if you're 90's pinstripe suit wasn't enough to remember you by, this little line of magic will be.