Application and Interview Support
Applications
Before you start
Do not rush any application. Take the time to find out everything that you need to, complete an application that makes you stand out and remember to check for any errors.
Collate all the personal information you need before you start applying, it will save time and you will feel more organised. Make sure you have copies of your academic achievements (qualifications and grades), any employment history details and your referee details.
Find out as much as you can before you apply. Look for the values and aims of the company, their history, their competitors and their product/service range. Show them you understand their context. Checking their social media is always a great place to start!
What might an application include?
Personal information
Your name, contact details etc.
Educational history
The institutions (places) where you have studied, what courses you took and the grades or qualifications you achieved.
Work experience
List the work experiences or previous jobs you have had and include the main duties and responsibilities you had in each. Where possible, emphasise those most closely related to the role you are applying for.
Personal statement
This needs to be a well-structured and well-argued case as to why you are the right person for the role. Refer back to the skills and qualities that the job description and person specification outline and explain how each applies to you. (You can find exemplar job descriptions and person specifications below).
Competency-based questions
You may be asked to give specific examples of when you have demonstrated the skills required. For example - "Describe a time where you used initiative to solve a problem".
Exemplar job description
INC013 Teaching Assistant JD.pdfExemplar person specification
INC013 Teaching Assistant PS.pdfLook at the job description and person specification above. If you were applying for this role, how could you evidence that you are the right person for the job? This is where it is important to read these carefully and make sure your application form and/or CV covers the main points the employer is looking for.
Curriculum Vitae
What is a CV?
A CV is a document which summarises your skills, experience, character and achievements. Basically, what makes you unique and different from other applicants.
It is important to create an impressive, concise and accurate CV as this is usually the first contact you will have with any prospective employer. It is basically your shop window - do not be afraid to show how good you are! You need to make it clear why the employer should offer you an interview.
There is not one specific format to use, a quick internet search will provide numerous CV templates for you to use. Choose the one you feel most comfortable with. The links at the bottom of this page may offer more support.
However, it is important to update your CV regularly. It makes applying for future jobs easier as you will have less work to do on it and you are always developing in some way, so keeping a current CV is really useful.
Exemplar CVs
Look at the two examples below, you will see they are very different. This is why it is so important to read the job description and person specification carefully. Work out exactly what kind of person they are looking for, then write a CV showing that you are that person!
Chronological CV
Chronological CV example.pdfSkills-based CV
Skill-based CV.pdfCover letters
A cover letter is usually sent to potential employers along with a CV. It is a way for you to personally introduce yourself and gives you an opportunity to explain why you are the best candidate for the role. Make sure your letter compliments your CV, but does not duplicate the same information.
What should I include in my cover letter?
First paragraph
Explain why you are writing the letter, covering the role you are applying for and when you are available to start work. It may also be beneficial to include where you saw the vacancy advertised.
Second paragraph
Explain why you are suitable for the role, why you want to work in that particular role, why the company was attractive to you and what you can bring to the role and organisation. This is where it is important to have done your research beforehand!
Third paragraph
Outline any work or voluntary experiences that may be relevant to the role and describe how your skills match exactly what the role is looking for. Refer back to the job description and person specification! You might also like to add anything additional that may be of benefit to the company. Common examples could be that someone holds a full driving licence or is a qualified First Aider.
Last paragraph
Bring your letter to a close. Reiterate your interest in the company and the role - this is your last opportunity to convince the person reading that you are the person they are looking for! Indicate your desire for a personal interview, thank them for reading your application and say you are looking forward to a response.
Cover letter example.pdfInterviews
Preparing for an interview
Before the interview day, set time aside to do the following:
Research
Research the company's history, values and current position. You need an understanding of how your skills and experiences will fit in.
Prepare common answers
Most interviews will ask some similar, generic questions such as "Tell us about yourself and why you are interested in this vacancy?"
Re-read the job description and person specification
Make sure you know the key skills and qualities that the employer is looking for. Mention these in your answers.
Practice!
Run through your prepared answers with a family member or read them aloud.
How to prepare for situational questions
You may often be asked to give a specific example of when you demonstrated a particular skill. For example; "Tell us about a time you overcame a barrier. What was the barrier, what did you do and what was the result?"
Applying STAR to your answer will help you structure key points and give them a relevant answer.
Situation - where were you working? What was your role? What was the issue?
Task - what barrier did you identify? How did you plan your actions?
Actions - what exactly did you do?
Result - how was the barrier overcome? What positive impact did your actions have?
Prepare questions for the interviewers
There will be an opportunity for you to ask any questions to the employers and they usually expect a candidate to ask them something. The questions you ask can help demonstrate that you are serious about the role.
You could ask questions based on:
Who would I be working with and who would I be responsible to?
What would a typical day in this role look like?
If I were successful, how would my performance be managed?
What progression routes might be available to me in the future?
First impressions count
Dress appropriately
If you are able to speak to the company beforehand, ask what the business dress requirements are and dress accordingly. For example, if you are expected to wear a suit each day, attending the interview wearing one will show you have high personal standards.
Be early
Plan your schedule appropriately and ensure you arrive slightly early for your interview (this is even more crucial if you are using public transport). If you do arrive early, use this to observe what you can about the workplace or current employees - you might notice something important you can talk about in your interview.
Other points
Show respect to everyone you encounter, including reception staff, security staff or cleaners etc.
Use confident, positive body language - smile, make eye contact, sit/stand straight.
Keep your answers short and specific and make sure you actually answer the question answered. If you realise you have gone off topic and cannot remember the question, it is totally acceptable for you to pause, take a moment to gather your thoughts or ask for the question to be repeated. Employers have all been interviewed at some point so will understand!
Be truthful with your answers. If you are struggling to think of a suitable answer, tell the interviewers that you are thinking of the most appropriate example to give them - this will give you a few moments to gather your ideas - but never lie.