Advice on how to apply for a job
Places to look for job vacancies
- Local/National newspapers
- Internet
- Job Centre
- Connexions
- Employment Agencies
- Trade newspapers/magazines
- Notice boards at college
- Vacancy boards ie: in supermarkets
You could also contact companies directly that you are interested in working for to ask about possible vacancies or send them a speculative CV with a covering letter.
See if your parents, family or friends know of any jobs that are available.
You can access the Connexions Direct jobs database to research different careers. Visit www.connexions-direct.co.uk to find out more.
Applying for a job
Spend some time writing your CV and keep it up-to-date. You may need to change your CV content depending on the job you are applying for.
When filling out an application form take your time and write clearly or complete an online form where possible. Answer all questions as fully as possible.
Keep a copy of your application form as it will be useful to re-read if you have an interview.
IIf your application is successful you will be contacted and invited for an interview. If you are not successful you can contact the company and ask why you were not shortlisted.
Before the interview
- • Make sure that you know the date, time and venue for your interview and plan your journey to make sure you get there a few minutes early.
- • Think about what to wear so you look smart and make a good first impression but also feel comfortable.
- • Take a copy of the job description and your CV with you to refer to.
- • Think of a few questions about the job to ask during the interview.
- • Find out a bit about the company before you attend the interview.
During the interview
- • First impressions count! Smile, make eye contact and shake hands with the interviewer.
- • Don’t chew gum!
- • Sit down when invited to do so, or after the interviewer sits down.
- • Don’t fidget with you hair, clothes or jewellery.
- • Listen carefully and answer questions as clearly and honestly as you can.
- • Be positive when talking about your skills and past experiences.
- • If you are asked a question you don’t understand ask the interviewer to repeat it or tell them that you are not sure what they mean. Take time to think about your answers.
- • You will be given a chance to ask questions so use this opportunity to find out anything you are not sure about.
- • You may be asked to sit an aptitude test but you should be informed about this beforehand.
Questions you may be asked
- • Why do you want this job?
- • How would you describe yourself?
- • What are your strengths?
- • What are your weaknesses?
- • Why should we offer this job to you?
- • What is the biggest challenge you have had to overcome?
- • What has been your biggest achievement?
- • How do you cope under pressure?
After the interview
- If you are unsuccessful contact the company to ask for feedback.