Get that Job!

Find who you would be working for!

Most job-seekers search for work online these days. Whilst this can provide you with an ocean size market of vacancies, it is usually frustrating and time-consuming as you send your CV to hundreds if not thousands of potential jobs.  

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The answer to successful job hunting lies with you, the job hunter, not the person finder! Your CV is your calling card - it should reflect you to the extent that anyone reading it - would immediately recognise it was your CV the moment you meet them! Here are a few dos and don'ts.

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The length of your CV should match your experience. Only the extensively experienced (like me!) should have a two-page CV; otherwise, it's one page - that's it! The hirer will not have time to read a life story about someone they have never met! So one page is enough for most people.  A CV isn't social media, so no photos or videos unless appropriate for the job you aim to win. If it's a portfolio of your work or a video of your acting experience - good; otherwise, keep it simple.

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After your name and contact details are at the top of the CV, ensure you have a boxed paragraph summarising who you are, what you are fabulous at, and why you are suited to this particular vacancy. Tailor your CV to the position you are applying for - generic CVs don't win. 

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Here is my C - how the key paragraph might look like:

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"International Chairman, CEO & Author with a reputation as a catalyst for strategic change, key people development, sales and profit growth in the Corporate, Private Equity & Small Business environment.

International General Management experience. Results-oriented, profit-focused, and

innovative business planning skills with a passion for getting things done.

An International Award-Winning Business Leader."

 

Lists your achievements; hirers want to see what you have achieved and what relevant experience you have. After listing your achievements,  list your education and qualifications. That's it! Be prepared to give the interviewer as much information as they need, not what you think they need! If you need an expanded CV, have it available  - and use it as a reference point.

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Get in front of the hirer.

Employing people is the most critical task an organisation undertakes. If you believe you can do the job, find out whom you will work for - and call them. Say that you would like to meet them and why. Remember, nobody gets a job until they first meet the actual employer! Never work for someone you have never met! Leaders want to meet new people; they are always looking for new talent, and it's one of their primary responsibilities! I once went for a walk whilst on holiday and ended up with a new job there and then! You can read the story in my book "it does matter" see below.

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Preparation avoids perspiration!

Research the organisation you want to join. Nothing impresses employers more than having an outsider sit in front of them that knows a lot about their organisation.  Be bright, tidy and interested in the organisation; first impressions are critical when hiring people. Your goal is to impress the guy you are going to work for; if you come over as somewhat unique, bright and ambitious, you might not get the job you are applying for, but a Leader will find one for you! Ask questions, but don't be too inquisitive; keep the questions relevant to the position and the company. 

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Be a little early for your interview; it shows you can tell the time!

Good Luck.