Recruitment and Selection - Making it to the First Interview

The surveys and stats show how hiring managers try as much as possible to minimize the risk of hiring the wrong person for the job. That being the case candidates looking for jobs must show that they are the right person for the job when being interviewed.

Firstly, your resume should be error free, especially if you are going to mention that you have excellent communication skills and the script is filled with errors. Take my advise leave that phrase out.

Once you are certain that the resume has reached its intented scrutinizer, you may call to find out whether you were shortlisted for at least a first interview. Do not however be overly confident.

If shortlisted for a first interview prepare, prepare, prepare. Practice answering questions out loud; not only to see if you flow, but also listen to your pitch. Brainstorm, ask yourself questions like what motivates me? What has been my greatest achievement to date? Who is my favouurite actor? Remember the recruiter will try to throw you a curve ball to see if you are easily fettered. Be prepared to answer the must ask question - why would you want to leave where you are now?

Also, please ask sensible questions. Do not ask about benefits on your first interview; it appears needy. Instead ask about the culture of the organization; who would be your direct report/manager, reasons for the vacancy and so on.

If you are going on an interview send me your questions and we will work them through.