In today’s competitive job market there may be hundreds of applicants for one job, so how are you going to make yourself stand out from the crowd and land your dream job?
- Your application. This is the first piece of information that your potential future employer will see about you, so make sure that it is neatly typed up, with no spelling or grammar errors. Check it yourself, spell check it on the computer, get someone else to proof read it. Attach a covering letter to add a personal touch to your application, but keep it brief.
- Visit the company if you can. If the company offers pre-application visits (such as schools) Make sure that you go and have a look around. Not only will you get a feel for the place, but potential employers DO notice what you are wearing and how you conduct yourself on these ‘informal’ visits. Be polite, well presented and ask questions.
- First (and second) impressions count. Be punctual for the interview, perhaps even doing a ‘dummy run’ in the car the day before. Be smart, but dress for the job you are going for. Nursery teachers should not be wearing 6 inch heels when they are going to be sitting on the floor with three year olds!
- Do your research and find out about the company aims and achievements, and make reference to these in interview, making clear how you could benefit them by helping them achieve their future targets.