Our Advice for Candidates
At Lloyd Harrington, we want you to succeed in your chosen career. We understand that to succeed you may change jobs, industries and companies.
That’s why, we’ve put together these advice pages on how we recommend you promote yourself to prospective employees to make sure your skills, talent and experience shine through.
You’re on the hunt for a new job. You might be casually browsing to see what’s available or you might be actively searching. Either way you need a resume on hand to email out when an interesting job comes your way.
Your resume is a first point of contact to a potential employer and therefore must leave a suitably positive impression. Therefore, it’s worth spending time to make sure your skills, experience and talent resonate. At Lloyd Harrington we offer the following advice when crafting your resume.
We advocate the KISS principle - Keep It Short and Simple. Your resume should not simply be a list of job titles and duties, but should also highlight your skills, experience and responsibilities.It should indicate how you can make a difference.
The structure should be clear and easy to understand as well as pleasing to the eye. Bullet points are very effective as they exclude unnecessary wording. The language of your resume should be clear, positive and exciting.
Check out our resume example to the right and feel free to use our template to craft your CV. In general you should address the following points.
Begin with your personal details on the top of the front page. Immediately underneath, include address, phone number, age (optional), email and nationality (optional). Include work numbers only if you want to be contacted at work. A personal profile is also very helpful to the prospective employer to give them an indication of your suitability. A personal profile is a very brief paragraph summary of your skills, experience, knowledge and career aspirations.
Your education should include the dates and place of study listed in reverse order, beginning with your most recent qualifications. If you have just completed a degree there is no need to put specific school results. If you're in the middle of a qualification and feel that particular aspects would be of interest to a prospective employer it can’t hurt to include it.
Again, begin with your most recent job and work backwards. Include company name, location, position title, your responsibilities and duties, specific dates of employment, achievements, the reason for leaving (optional) and whether the position was full time, part time, temporary or permanent.
Employers like to know how you can make a difference, so pay particular emphasis to your achievements and responsibilities. If possible quantify your achievements with facts and figures.
Gaps during employment history should be accounted for. Employers tend to be cautious - if you account for your gaps it will bring peace of mind to the prospective employer. We don’t recommend listing information about positions that were a long time ago or for a very short period of time.
In this section highlight anything else you feel necessary to help secure that first interview. You might include skills that you haven’t mentioned already such as software or systems knowledge, typing speed and language skills. You should state your level of proficiency in each (basic, intermediate, advanced). Memberships to professional organisations could also be mentioned here.
Keep the interests section short, limited to a couple of hobbies, past-times and achievements. Employers are generally looking to gain an indication of your personality, whether you're a team player or work best on your own and whether you would fit into the existing corporate culture.
We recommend providing two or three referees, of which one should be your most recent employer. Only include your present employer if you’re comfortable with them being contacted. University and school leavers with limited work experience should nominate relevant teachers or lecturers. Include your referee's company, position title, mobile number and direct work contact number. If you don't feel comfortable providing referee details, make clear that you will provide them upon request. Be sure to tell your referees in advance so that they're prepared when contacted.
Cover letters are important and they are read, so we’ve devised a few helpful tips to make the task a little easier for you.
We recommend you follow a specific structure. In the first paragraph make reference to the position and your interest. The second paragraph should respond to the advertisement and why you feel you would be a suitable candidate; detail what you can bring to the organisation. The third paragraph should expand on your specific achievements that highlight your suitability. The final paragraph should confidently request a response with your contact details.
We recommend that you write a personalised cover letter for each individual application. Make sure that the letter is concise and factual and no longer than one A4 page. Make sure that you address the letter to the appropriate person, and that you’ve used the correct title and spelt their name correctly. Check out our cover letter example and feel free to use our template as a guide when writing your next job cover letter.
Rather than asking an applicant to send in a resume, some companies now ask that a standard application form be filled out. These are used by organisations to ensure they receive the same information from all applicants. It provides an overview for the employer and assists in the shortlisting process.
We recommend photocopying the form and using the copy as a draft. This practice will ensure that you respond in clear, concise and legible English. Make sure you read the questions carefully, in order to give a thoughtful response. Take note of any specific guidelines given by employees, for example the level of detail required and to complete the form with a black or blue pen and block letters.
Photocopy the completed form for safety and also so that you can familiarise yourself with the answers before the interview. Make sure you submit the application before the closing date.
Assessment centres are increasingly being used as a method to select candidates. The advantage of these centres, from the company's perspective, is that it enables them to collate more objective information than could be gathered from the interview alone.
Depending on the position, assessment exercises may vary. Normally incorporated into any assessment may be a mixture of interviews, group exercises, presentations and psychometric tests.
When attending an assessment centre, it's important to relax, as this is the way in which you will perform best and it will enable assessors to assess you and your personality more accurately. Do not panic if you feel you performed badly in one of the assessments. The organisation will be looking at your performance from the overall day. However be aware that there may be certain assessments for which you have to score a minimum in order to be considered for the position.
As per standard job interviews turn up on time and dress appropriately.
Congrats. You’ve secured an interview. The interview is your chance to impress the employer with your professionalism, enthusiasm and personality. The following tips will help you to make a good impression.
Preparation is essential. Research the organisation so that you can ask intelligent questions that demonstrate you’re genuinely interested in the organisation. Company reports, the internet, brochures, the media, the stock exchange and the library are great sources of information. Areas of research should include the company's mission statement, their key staff members, the market in which they operate, their competitors, history and future, and their products and services.
Practice typical interview questions and prepare honest, persuasive answers. Truthfully assess your employment history and background and devise explanations for your strengths, weaknesses, skills, experience and career aspirations.
Clarify who you are seeing and exactly where the interview is being held to avoid being late. We recommend being at least 10 minutes early. Take along a spare resume, a note book and pen just in case. Written references are also advantageous.
Always dress appropriately. Every job and every company is different, so clarify your consultant if in doubt regarding the dress code. But in general wear smart business attire and limit the amount of fragrance.
Research suggests men should wear a navy blue or dark suit, with a clean well pressed white or pale shirt. Your shoes should be polished and you should limit jewellery. Women should wear a suit or a tailored dress in navy or dark colours. Blouses should be colour coordinated and shoes should be closed toe. If you choose to wear stockings, natural colours are recommended.
When greeting the interviewer, look at them in the eye and use formal language. Be confident, courteous, smile and have a firm handshake.
The interview is fast approaching. Grab a friend or family member and have a practice with these potential questions. We’ve included our advice against each one.
How would you describe your own personality? What adjectives would you use to describe yourself?
Again relate your personality to the job and the skills you bring to the position. Examples include - hardworking, honest and courteous. Expand why these qualities are relevant to the position.
What do you know about our organisation?
Make sure you research the company prior to the interview. Know the history, philosophy, products, size, turnover, image, goals and management style.
Why do you want to work for us?
Be careful with this one. This is a chance for you to show that you can make a difference to their needs. Show them that your skills and experience can help them reach their objectives. This is also your chance to sell yourself - show that you can make a difference. You should also say why you think it's a great company.
Why do you want this job?
Again, research the company and say what attracts you to the job.
What about our position do you find the most attractive and the least attractive?
Ideally you should be able to list four qualities that are attractive and only a minor one that is not.
What do you look for in a job?
Something along the lines of, "The ability to use my skills, to exceed expectations and to be recognised,” is appropriate.
Why should I hire you?
You should clarify your positive attributes that are related to the job and draw on past achievements including compliments from previous managers.
What would you do for us that someone else can't?
Relate your past achievements in solving problems and producing results that are similar to the job at hand.
What qualifies you for this job?
Again, same as above. Remember to go into depth and explain why.
What makes you want to work hard?
Ideally you should discuss achievement and the satisfaction you get from it.
Where do you see yourself to be x years from now?
Be honest and trust your instincts. Think about what they really want to know. Suggestions include senior management positions. It’s not a good idea to tell them you want their job unless they are obviously on the verge of retirement.
How long would it take you to make a meaningful contribution to our firm?
Explain that you feel you would make a significant contribution as soon as you complete the learning curve because you're a quick learner.
You may be over qualified for the position we have on offer, what are your thoughts?
An answer emphasising that they will get a faster return on their investment since you have more experience than is needed is along the right lines. You could also explain what other benefits you could bring to the organisation that they might not have thought of.
What other jobs or companies are you considering?
Again, be honest and keep the answer specific to the respective employers industry.
What is your management style?
We would recommend open door management policy but each case is different.
In your last position, what were your five most significant accomplishments?
You should refer to the key achievements in your resume and expand on them.
What are your greatest strengths?
List at least three or four but keep them job related.
Specific Employment Questions
Explain how you overcame a major obstacle.
Give an example to highlight your problem solving skills and the satisfaction you derived from it.
What are your weaknesses?
If you say you have none, it seems a bit arrogant. It is always good to have a minor one, that others may be seen as a strength such as meticulousness. Again, keep it work related and remember to offer a strength that negates your weakness.
What is your biggest weakness as a manager?
Again- honesty. Try to be positive.
If I spoke with your previous boss, what would he say are your greatest strengths and weaknesses?
Be honest as this is more than likely to be checked.
Describe a situation in which your work was criticised.
Be specific but try and be positive as much as possible. Draw on the knowledge that was gained, and how you benefited from the criticism.
How many people did you supervise?
Be precise with your answer.
What do you look for when you hire people?
An example could be skills, initiative and adaptability. Be sure to expand.
What do your subordinates think of you?
Your prospective employer could find out very easily - so be sure to be honest and truthful and as positive as possible.
What do you see as the most difficult task in being a manager?
An example answer could be planning, budgeting and time management.
What was the most difficult decision you ever had to make?
Again, be honest and try to correlate as much as possible to the position in question.
Have you ever fired anyone? How did it work out?
Be as positive as you can and answer the question truthfully.
How do you resolve conflict?
Suggested answer could be, discuss it privately.
How do you handle pressure and stress?
Explain that you can work under pressure and meet deadlines by turning stress into positive energy. Examples include relaxing with a good book, socialising with friends which help you to be more focused at work. A good balance is essential.
Are you a good manager? Why do you feel you have managerial potential?
Again, talk about your achievements and place emphasis on management skills such as planning, delegating, controlling, interpersonal, communication, motivating skills.
What past accomplishments have given you satisfaction?
Describe workplace achievements that have been acknowledged, Try to focus more on achievement than financial gain.
Job Satisfaction Questions
Why are you leaving your present job?
Generic statements are recommended, such as career move, department was made redundant.
Why haven't you found a new position yet?
Answer along the lines that you're being selective and that it is easy to find a job, but much more difficult to find the right job. Be prepared to then answer, why you think this is the right job.
How would you evaluate your present firm?
Be positive - talk about the wonderful experiences that you had.
What do you think of your current employer?
Never speak poorly about employers. Always be as positive as you can.
In your current position, what do you like the most or least?
Be honest and as positive as you can.
Personality Questions
These questions demonstrate your broad interests and knowledge base.
What was the last book you read? What was the last movie you saw?
What sporting events do you enjoy?
What are your hobbies?
What type of music do you like?
What do you do in your spare time, or on weekends?
Salary Questions
How much are you looking for?
We recommend you don’t discuss salary and to leave it to the consultants as they have experience in salary negotiations. However, if you do have to answer, answer with a question such as, "What is the salary range of similar jobs within your organisation?" If there is no response, then indicate what you think you are worth in the market place. Be aware this puts you into a trap of being offered the lower end of the scale. Other answers include, "I am seeking the right organisation, and if you think that I am the best candidate for the position, you will tender me with your best and fairest offer.”
What is your current salary?
Again, try to let your consultants deal with this, but if you have to answer - be truthful. If you're expecting a raise soon, be truthful about the approximate amount that you expect.
This is your moment to shine. Be positive and pay particular attention to your body language. Crossed arms indicate barriers between you and the interviewer while leaning forward implies interest. Sit up straight and smile. Slouching conveys a sense of disinterest and laziness. Women should also note that they should cross their legs at the ankles and not at the knees.
There are many questions that you could be asked at an interview. But all questions generally fall into these three categories:
Listen to the questions carefully without interrupting. Before you respond, think about your answer. This will help you to speak more confidently. Don’t waffle - answer the question that has been asked and do not be evasive. If you cannot answer a question, be up front about it. If it's a technical question that you really should know the answer to, explain that you will get back to them after you have carefully researched the question.
Drawing on past experiences is often necessary to answer interview questions. These answers don't necessarily have to be contained to the workplace but could relate to broader life experience, such as being on a sporting team. The important thing is not to make up an experience; it is highly likely that you will be caught out.
If you feel that an interview question is inappropriate, a tactful approach needs to be taken. An example for a response may be, "I'm a bit confused, can you please explain why that may be of relevance to the position?" In most cases the employer will realise they are wrong and back off. Although you may be justified in refusing to answer such a question, this might cost you the job.
The interview is a two-way process and the interviewer will probably ask at the end if you have any questions. It’s crucial to your success to have a few prepared, to show your enthusiasm and interest for the position. This is also your chance to clear any lingering doubts that you may possess.
It’s also best not to mention salary, benefits or holidays. The interview is designed to let you shine. Our consultants are trained to negotiate the employment terms down the track. Eye contact throughout the interview cannot be stressed enough. It implies confidence and honesty. Also look at who you are talking to but do not exclude the other interviewers present.
Final Impressions
At the end of the interview be sure to inquire about the next stage. If the interviewer offers you the position and if you feel that the interviewer has answered your questions to your complete satisfaction, and you are truly interested in the position, accept the job offer on the spot as this will secure you the position and you will no longer be competing with others.
Thank the interviewer(s) for their time and shake their hand firmly at the end. Remember that everyone will give feedback so be polite to receptionists and secretaries. You never know how much influence they will have. It could be the interviewer's wife.
After the Interview
Immediately after the interview jot down all your thoughts and important information that wasn’t covered in the interview. It’s amazing how much one forgets and this may help you if you are called for a second interview. Call your consultant to inform them about how it went and if you have any queries that may need to be addressed. We are here to help you.
If you are sincerely interested it may be a good idea to write an email through the consultant expressing your interest. This shows your enthusiasm and may secure that role. Don’t be discouraged if you’re not successful. Take it as a learning experience for future interviews. Analyse your interview and look at ways that you could improve your technique.
Great news. You’ve been offered the job. But what is the protocol as you head towards your new workplace? The way in which you proceed with a job offer is a good time to reinforce your professionalism. It's extremely important to evaluate the job offer to make sure it’s exactly what you’re after so that you will never have to go back on an acceptance.
Employers do not expect you to accept a job offer on the spot, but it would be advisable to arrange a time frame with the consultant in which you will have an answer. Be aware that they will continue to interview and if you take too long in making your decision they will withdraw the job offer.
In general the organisation will issue a written offer through your consultant. You will need to formally respond to the letter. Even if you have verbally agreed to accept the job, an acceptance letter is generally needed to formalise the agreement.
In responding to the acceptance letter you should include all the relevant formalities such as names, business address and date, a thank you to the employer for the offer and your acceptance of the position and start date.
On occasions, after careful consideration you may decide the position is not right for you. If the job has been offered to you, we consider it a courtesy to follow up a phone call with a short letter. Always express gratification for the offer.
A counter offer is an offer from your current employer to rival the new offer you’ve received. Most often, people who accept a counter offer leave their current employer within a year anyway.
At Lloyd Harrington we believe that it would be beneficial to consider these factors when contemplating a counter offer:
Out of courtesy keep your consultant informed of all developments as they arise.
You've accepted the job offer and now the time has come to resign from your current position. When resigning there are certain etiquettes that should be followed in order to make the process as professional and painless for all parties. It is not always pleasant and straightforward, and your boss may not necessarily be supportive. Handling the resignation properly is vital to your career and it’s important not to burn bridges- you’re current boss may need to vouch for your skills in the future.
Out of courtesy you should let your manager know as soon as possible. This is vital so that they feel as though they have been kept informed throughout the entire process. Make sure the resignation is kept confidential as your manager will appreciate being the one to choose who knows about the situation.
A letter of resignation is the formal way of communicating your departure. A simple resignation letter should include details of the person to whom it’s addressed, notice of termination of employment, exact dates from which the termination will be effective from and your signature to bind the document. Feel free to use our template below to write your resignation letter.
If you're leaving on good terms it's a good idea to thank the employer in your letter and extend your regret at leaving a work environment that you have thoroughly enjoyed. If the resignation is not on good terms, it’s a good idea to refrain from detail in the letter.
To ensure a smooth transition, make sure that you maintain interest in your current role until the time you leave. This is your chance to continue to impress and to ensure a good reference from the employer. Ample notice and the finishing of tasks is often greatly appreciated. You're now all set for your first day.
You've finally secured your dream position and now it's time to start work. Although it may seem that the hardest part is over, we believe it’s just as important to continue making good impressions when you start working with your new employer.
Prior to the first day keep in contact with your new employer but don't overdo it. Do as much research as you can on your new company, so that you’re fully prepared for your first day.
On the actual day arrive early and dress appropriately. If you are unsure of what is appropriate, contact your new employer. Show enthusiasm for your new work. Walk in with your head up, a smile on your face and make eye contact when speaking to people.
Generally people like to help others. Remember that you are new to the company and therefore it will be beneficial to accept help from someone who may know more about the dealings than you do. This is also a great way to build relationships within the workplace.
While it’s normal to hold on to some of the practices of your old workplace, remember that every workplace has different procedures. Be open to learn new ways of doing things. Make sure to ask questions, it will also help you to come across more friendly to your co-workers.
Figure out who has the authority to designate you work. Some colleagues might just be trying to get you to do their fair share. Never complain about your previous job or employer; it conveys negative connotations.
Keep in touch with your Lloyd Harrington consultant and let them know how you're getting on in your new workplace. And finally, good luck.
