Friday 23 April 2010

Sure Helps Pupils Get Smart For Interviews

 
Island pupils have been prepared for the next Sure Apprentice 2010 challenge with training in how to handle job interviews.
The final three apprentices have been trained for next week when they face tough one-on-one interviews, after which two will be chosen to go on to the final round. They will be asked questions about themselves, their CVs, and the activities they have undertaken during Sure Apprentice 2010.
Emma Allard, Chief Executive of Hamblin Employment Group, has given the three candidates tips on their CVs and interview techniques as part of their preparation.
Emma’s top ten tips for succeeding in a job interview are:
  1. Research the company by speaking to friends, family, reading the newspaper and surfing the internet. Visiting the company website alone is not sufficient.
  2. Dress to impress – appearances are vital and companies usually make their mind up within the first 20 seconds.
  3. Arrive on time and make sure you know the company location prior to the interview and who to ask for when you get there.
  4. If there is a job description or job advertisement read it through. There is nothing worse than not knowing what job you are going for. The same can be said of your own CV. Make sure you know it inside out.
  5. Relax during the interview, be positive, smile, maintain eye contact, look interested and most of all be yourself
  6. Don’t waffle. Offer clear and precise answers to questions highlighting any relevant experience you have for the role. If you don’t understand a question ask for clarification.
  7. Be aware of your body language, sit upright and look interested. Keep control of your hands as fiddling with a pen or touching your hair can be distracting.
  8. Think about how you can differentiate yourself from other candidates and make sure you highlight the skills you can bring to the role.
  9. Prepare a list of questions that you might want to ask e.g. “How would you describe the culture of your company?”
  10. When the interview has finished, smile, thank the interviewer(s) for their time and shake their hand(s).
Ms Allard said: “Many people can find their first and indeed subsequent interviews intimidating but it is always important to remember that it is just as important for the person conducting the interview to make the best impression of his or her company too. Following a few basic rules can make your chances of gaining the job much greater.
“Historically the island has been flourishing, with numerous roles ready for those who have left education. The job market has changed substantially during the last two years and therefore employers are being a little more cautious when recruiting. This interview will be a fantastic experience for all three candidates, and one that will certainly stand out on their CV. I would like to wish them all the best of luck.”
Since Sure Apprentice began in December, the candidates have conducted market research into mobile phones, designed and marketed Valentine’s Day cards, and have devised a communications device for the future. After next week’s interviews the last task will be revealed to the two finalists. The winner will become the Sure Apprentice.
Mike Stanton, Country Manager of Sure Isle of Man, said: “We are part of the island community and want to help everyone to be the best they can. I hope that Emma’s training will be very useful to all three candidates, not only for these interviews, but when they face a real jobs panel.”