Introduction
Before I ever stepped into the business world, I was sending CV's to get a job. Sure, there were training centres and videos to help me design a CV but what really helped me was the books. You see, I wasn't getting many calls and I was receiving a lot of rejection letters. When I did get the interviews, I didn't do well but then I stumbled onto some books and everything changed.
I was getting interviews, receiving 6-10 calls a day from companies. I got motivated and sent 20 letters every two days. From starting on that road, I got a job and a lot of offers to choose from. What was amazing about the books is going to excite you.
The knowledge teaches you why they ask the questions, how to reply, how to sit, how to talk and most of all, and this is the best part - you learn each personality of the people who will be interviewing you. And since I knew this due to the knowledge I learnt from the books; I knew what buttons to press. Instead of them interviewing me, I interviewed them without them even knowing it.
I was getting interviews, receiving 6-10 calls a day from companies. I got motivated and sent 20 letters every two days. From starting on that road, I got a job and a lot of offers to choose from. What was amazing about the books is going to excite you.
The knowledge teaches you why they ask the questions, how to reply, how to sit, how to talk and most of all, and this is the best part - you learn each personality of the people who will be interviewing you. And since I knew this due to the knowledge I learnt from the books; I knew what buttons to press. Instead of them interviewing me, I interviewed them without them even knowing it.
DOWNLOAD CV, Cover, Spec Letter TEMPLATES
Let Them Have It!
- Cover Letter Template
- This template is for Cover Letter. Please download and adjust to the job you are aiming for.
- Spec Letter Template
- This is a spec letter to send to companies and see if they have vacancies to relevant job you are looking for.
- CV Template
- This link is to download CV Template. Again, adjust to the job you are applying for.
What You Will Find Here
- DOWNLOAD CV, Cover, Spec Letter TEMPLATES
- Personality Clashes
- Studying Disc Personality Helps
- Before CV Was In The System
- When there was no such thing as a CV
- CV (Curriculum Vitae)
- CV Stands For....
- You've got to get it right because it is:
- And the other reasons are
- What You Need On A CV
- Cv Page One
- Profile Section
- Key Skills
- Work Experience
- Training & Education
- New Polaroid
- Interests
- Have A Keen Eye When Applying For Jobs
- Example Of An Advertised Vacancy
- So the Key Skills for the advertised job are:
- Interview Tips
- What Not To Do
- Questions they may ask
- CV Writing
- Tough Interview - What's Your Weakness?
- Tough Interview Question - Why Should I Hire You
- The Fatal Mistake
- Are You Nervous In Interviews
- Question on Salary When Asked
- Which Personality Are You?
- Answer to the Question to - ever had a conflict with a boss?
- BONUS For Squidoo Readers!!!!
- Introducing Squidoo!
- Now We Are Moving ...
- OOOh, You Are Really Into This, Aren't You..
- You're Nearly There! Keep Going!
- You're Now Official A Squidoo Shaker!
- Amazing Books For CV Writing And People Skills
- Reader Feedback
Different Personalities
What Helped Me..BOOKS!
One amazing book is called "It's a Zoo Around here - The New Rules of Communication
Don't be put off by the cover. Managing Directors are reading this book. This book was a life saver for me. It even surprised me about my own personality. I and my family would read this book and burst out laughing because it was saying what is so true about each of our personalities, why we do it, how to talk to us, what to say when you want to get us moving.
Through such books, I knew all the different personalities of my friends and anyone I would bump into. That gave me the edge to know how to address different people, how to start a conversation with different people, the structure of the conversation I need, to speak to different people, how to change their thinking, how to present change to them, and if they made mistakes then you know the different approaches!
I learnt how to speak on their negative feedback and know what they hate most and what they liked. I learnt how they express anger, how to acknowledge different people, how to get them to cooperate. Personalities are languages and if you don't know the different languages of each personality then you're in trouble. Especially in interviews. You can offend someone, hurt someone, make them run away from you and even not hire you. You can even cause friction within a team.
Don't be put off by the cover. Managing Directors are reading this book. This book was a life saver for me. It even surprised me about my own personality. I and my family would read this book and burst out laughing because it was saying what is so true about each of our personalities, why we do it, how to talk to us, what to say when you want to get us moving.Through such books, I knew all the different personalities of my friends and anyone I would bump into. That gave me the edge to know how to address different people, how to start a conversation with different people, the structure of the conversation I need, to speak to different people, how to change their thinking, how to present change to them, and if they made mistakes then you know the different approaches!
I learnt how to speak on their negative feedback and know what they hate most and what they liked. I learnt how they express anger, how to acknowledge different people, how to get them to cooperate. Personalities are languages and if you don't know the different languages of each personality then you're in trouble. Especially in interviews. You can offend someone, hurt someone, make them run away from you and even not hire you. You can even cause friction within a team.
Don't Get Carried Away
Having People Skills For Interviews
"...Personalities are languages and if you don't know the different languages of each personality then you're in trouble..."
What Personality Languages Can Do For You
It's like going to France and not speaking French. Or going to Yemen and you don't speak Arabic. Or travelling to England and not speak a word of English. You'll get by but it be a struggle. So when doing your CV and getting your letters done, you need to get more knowledge that isn't taught in schools, colleges or universities. The knowledge on the different types of personalities.
Why? Because you're going to be interviewed by people. One can have dominant personality and they don't like long a answer but want you to be brief and to the point. The other can be Inspiring personality, the other can be supportive and the next one can be cautious. You need to know each of these personalities inside out, so you can interact with them with confidence. You'll need to know why they asked that question, how to answer each person in their own personality language. You'll be working in a company full of people and work to provide a service to people. Each client or co-worker has a different personality than someone else. Knowing how to speak to different people is gold!
Why? Because you're going to be interviewed by people. One can have dominant personality and they don't like long a answer but want you to be brief and to the point. The other can be Inspiring personality, the other can be supportive and the next one can be cautious. You need to know each of these personalities inside out, so you can interact with them with confidence. You'll need to know why they asked that question, how to answer each person in their own personality language. You'll be working in a company full of people and work to provide a service to people. Each client or co-worker has a different personality than someone else. Knowing how to speak to different people is gold!
Personalities Are Languages
Knowing how to speak to different people is gold!
The Personality Tests Companies Carry Out
Today, companies are getting people they interviewed to have a Personality test. They want to know what type pf personality you have. Thousands of pounds are being spent on such a thing. They want someone who they can work with, who is a team player but also, they want to know what makes a person tick and how to help them to develop the other areas of their characte traits. Yes, you didn't think I was just going to plonk some nice easy bullet point article on how to write CV and that's it, did you? I want you to be ten steps ahead and prepared! So do you want to be prepared? Then keep reading.
Personality Clashes
Studying Disc Personality Helps
That kind of knowledge and your skills in writing a CV is your armor and when you got these then you're going to be noticed. You'll receive offers and even make deals with directors. That's exactly what happened to me. It was an amazing experience and every time I share the knowledge and someone gets the books I mentioned, follows them to the letter - always gets an amazing experience and lots of offers, and a job. They have this charisma and confidence. So can you!
Before CV Was In The System
When there was no such thing as a CV
In the past, you didn't have to hand in a CV. You'd finish your studies and
straight away be in a job or on apprenticeship. Then you'd work hard to
proof yourself worth and start climbing up the ladder.
Not anymore. Everything has changed and it is getting tighter. Today, not
only do you need a CV but you must have identification such as a Passport,
Birth Certificate or Driving License.
Some even ask for a CRB which is a Criminal Record Bureau check.
Especially if you're working with young people.
straight away be in a job or on apprenticeship. Then you'd work hard to
proof yourself worth and start climbing up the ladder.
Not anymore. Everything has changed and it is getting tighter. Today, not
only do you need a CV but you must have identification such as a Passport,
Birth Certificate or Driving License.
Some even ask for a CRB which is a Criminal Record Bureau check.
Especially if you're working with young people.
CV (Curriculum Vitae)
CV or Curriculum Vitae stands for - course of (one's) life. A curriculum vitae is a written description of your past work, experience, your educational background, your key skills, and your interests.
It is used for anyone looking for an academic job. It is also used when applying for a bank loan except it will have a different format. No matter what you apply for, whether bank loan, for a job, to work in a company, business partnership, work trail or voluntary basis; you will need to provide details about you. For a job, you'll need a CV
It is used for anyone looking for an academic job. It is also used when applying for a bank loan except it will have a different format. No matter what you apply for, whether bank loan, for a job, to work in a company, business partnership, work trail or voluntary basis; you will need to provide details about you. For a job, you'll need a CV
CV Stands For....
Course of (one's) life.
You've got to get it right because it is:
- A written depiction or reflection of you.
- A short biography of your education or experience
- A journey or reflection of your working history.
- A marketing tool or advertisement from you to the employer
And the other reasons are
- They will make a judgement on your CV. First impression counts.
- It opens the door to an interview and then the rest is up to your charm and amazing personality.
- It is your marketing tool to sell your skills, experience and as an individual.
What You Need On A CV
I have created a fictional character for this CV and all details are fictional and the only thing legit is the format of the CV. Look at where the name is and the address. Your name and then your address with a contact number should be at the top. Please make sure you got a contact number.
Look at the image above. It's a bit blurry but don't worry, I got the templates for you to download as microsoft word. It's the first page of the fictional CV. I haven't made it so cramped and squashed but laid out so it is easy for the eyes. I don't have 6 pages or three pages for a CV. Two is fine and if I could, I'd even try to design it into one page but that would be too cramped and unprofessional
Look at the image above. It's a bit blurry but don't worry, I got the templates for you to download as microsoft word. It's the first page of the fictional CV. I haven't made it so cramped and squashed but laid out so it is easy for the eyes. I don't have 6 pages or three pages for a CV. Two is fine and if I could, I'd even try to design it into one page but that would be too cramped and unprofessional
Cv Page One
Profile Section
Have you noticed that I haven't put my life story but made it brief. This part should shine through because it's one of the first things they look for. Many companies like to read this section because they know that qualifications and experiences are all great but if the person is not a team player, or his/her personality stinks then they don't want you.
Make the profile section nice and sweet and not personal. No stories about how you went fishing. Just briefly write about you. Take a look at what I have written on the profile section
Make the profile section nice and sweet and not personal. No stories about how you went fishing. Just briefly write about you. Take a look at what I have written on the profile section
Key Skills
You might have had a job within the retail industry. Here are some of the key skills you can add. Just choose four from the list below:
- A genuine interest in working with and helping customers
- Excellent communication skills and a flair for explaining things
- Proven ability to work under pressure as part of a team or on my own
- Able to deal with customers complaints in a tactful and professional manner
- Cash Handling and till operation experience
- Ability to meet deadlines and quality standards
- Strong sense of responsibility
- Takes pride in appearance
- Confident when dealing with difficult customers
- Plenty of stamina to work long hours on my feet
- Comfortable when using or learning to use computerised equipment
Work Experience
Make sure you put your latest job or work experience first. You need the employer to see what you have been doing at this present time. Don't put anything here that shows a big gap where you haven't been working. Obviously some gaps exist maybe due to studying or training but you can mention that in the training section or in the interview.Take extreme care on this part.
I've typed the company's name, then the role in bold and the date at the end. Don't put the date in the beginning. Let them first see the experience and the date is left at the end. There's also the duties, which I have included with bullet points. Notice that I could have put a lot in this section but again, I choose only four. Make it brief and to the point!
I've typed the company's name, then the role in bold and the date at the end. Don't put the date in the beginning. Let them first see the experience and the date is left at the end. There's also the duties, which I have included with bullet points. Notice that I could have put a lot in this section but again, I choose only four. Make it brief and to the point!
Training & Education
This is where you show all your qualifications and extra training. Even if it is going on a training course to learn how to do a CV or mentorship program, or self esteem development training. Add them but again make it brief. Take a look at the image below or the template I have provided.
Notice I have included the name of the venue where the person was training. That's the first you should add. Then the bullet points on what you have learnt or qualifications. I know I keep saying this but please, make this brief.
Notice I have included the name of the venue where the person was training. That's the first you should add. Then the bullet points on what you have learnt or qualifications. I know I keep saying this but please, make this brief.
New Polaroid
Interests
This was called 'hobbies' but it is better to type it as 'interests.' Mention what is relevant to the job. You can mention sports because it shows team work! Again, very, very brief in this section.
Have A Keen Eye When Applying For Jobs
Your CV must cater for the job you are applying for; from the profile, the key skills, training and education to your interests. Take a look at the advert below:
You can see from the image below that they need someone who is skilled in design software's. You need to work unsupervised and be self motivated, and meet target deadlines. Even though they have mentioned that people can work from home, they prefer to have someone working in their company settings. Go for what they prefer.
You can see from the image below that they need someone who is skilled in design software's. You need to work unsupervised and be self motivated, and meet target deadlines. Even though they have mentioned that people can work from home, they prefer to have someone working in their company settings. Go for what they prefer.
Example Of An Advertised Vacancy
So the Key Skills for the advertised job are:
- Advanced Typography and design skills
- Fluent in computer design skills
- Work within a team but also without supervision
- Self motivated and can finish
Interview Tips
What To Do
You'll need some interview tips. I would advise to invest in some books and don't just rely on the ones I've shared. The more you read and practise, the more you will be ahead of a lot of people. Let's look at what to do and what not to do for interviews.
- Dress Smart and pay attention to their questions.
- Be confident in what you say and speak clearly.
- First impressions count.
- Have all your clothes ready instead of rushing to find a shirt on the day of the interview.
- Find out where the venue is for the interview. Be prepared.
- If you've done these then you won't be late.
- Prepare questions to ask and don't ask about holidays. You can when you get the job.
- Find out more about the company, their history, their vision and their training system.
- Take your time in answering questions and if you don't understand then say so with confidence.
- Sell yourself because no one is going to do it for you.
- If they do mention salary then know your industry. You should check this part out before the interview.
- Oh yeah, turn off your mobile phone!
- Make sure you don't babble on. Keep your answers to the questions. And smile!
What Not To Do
- Don't criticise another company you have worked for.
- Don't swear or use slang words.
- Don't lie. Be honest.
- Don't slouch your body but sit up straight.
- Don't be arrogant and confuse this with confidence.
- Don't argue with the interviewer. It can be a test to see if you can take criticisms. Stay calm.
Questions they may ask
Be Prepared...
- Tell me about yourself. Or tell me more about yourself.
- What do you know about our organisation?- Why do you want to work for us?
- What can you do for us that someone else can't?
- Why should we hire you?
- What do you look for in a job?
- Give us one example where you had to work towards a deadline?
- Give us one example where you had to work within a team?
- What's the most important trend that you see in our industry?
- What are your short term and long term goals?
CV Writing
Writing Your Resume
Here is a video that takes the stress out of writing your resume. You'll learn the 10 Rules for constructing an effective Resume. These rules will give you the confidence to write it quickly and more importantly, to discuss it effectively.
Runtime: 216
55275 views
19 Comments:
curated content from YouTube
Tough Interview - What's Your Weakness?
Interview Tips - "What is your greatest weakness?"
CollegeGrad.com presents "Tough Interview Question - What is your greatest weakness?" Do you know how to answer this question? Hint--it's not what most career books tell you (to give a veiled positive as a negative). Watch this quick video to find out the answer...
Runtime: 60
161797 views
37 Comments:
curated content from YouTube
Tough Interview Question - Why Should I Hire You
Interview Tips - "Why should I hire you?"
CollegeGrad.com presents "Tough Interview Question - Why should I hire you?" This quick video covers what you need to know for answering this tough interview question: "Why should I hire you?" Watch this video to find out how to best answer this question.
Runtime: 56
157333 views
47 Comments:
curated content from YouTube
The Fatal Mistake
Are You Nervous In Interviews
Interview Tips - How To Overcome Interview Nervousness
Brian Krueger, President of CollegeGrad.com, presents "How To Overcome Interview Nervousness." Does the thought of going on an interview make you nervous? Use these three quick tips to overcome your interview nervousness.
Runtime: 63
107560 views
53 Comments:
curated content from YouTube
Question on Salary When Asked
Interview Tips - "What salary range are you seeking?"
Brian Krueger, President of CollegeGrad.com, presents another tough interview question: "What salary range are you seeking?" Watch this video to learn the best way to answer this question.
Runtime: 63
67111 views
28 Comments:
curated content from YouTube
Which Personality Are You?
Answer to the Question to - ever had a conflict with a boss?
Interview Tips - "Have you ever had a conflict with a boss?"
CollegeGrad.com presents "Tough Interview Question - Have you ever had a conflict with a boss?" This quick video covers what you need to know for answering this tough interview question. Watch this video to find out the best approach for answering this question.
Runtime: 58
35496 views
5 Comments:
curated content from YouTube
BONUS For Squidoo Readers!!!!
Below are video tutorials on how I designed this page!
Introducing Squidoo!
Now We Are Moving ...
OOOh, You Are Really Into This, Aren't You..
You're Nearly There! Keep Going!
You're Now Official A Squidoo Shaker!
Amazing Books For CV Writing And People Skills
"It's a Zoo Around Here":
The New Rules for Better Communication
Brilliant CV:
What Employers Want to See and How to Say It
The Study Skills Handbook
(Palgrave Study Guides)
Moleskine Weekly Notebook 18 Month Soft Black Cover Pocket
(Moleskine 18 Month Diaries)
Leadership and the One Minute Manager
The Present:
The Gift That Makes You Happy and Successful at Work and in Life
Rich Dad, Poor Dad 2:
Cash Flow Quadrant
Rich Dad's Guide to Financial Freedom
(Rich Dad)
Reader Feedback
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- AdrienneJenkins AdrienneJenkins Feb 28, 2009 @ 2:59 pm
- Adam...Just a suggestion, you might also want to consider creating lenses on Squidoo as an online resume and writing portfolio. Here are a few suggestions -- My Resume and
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- Jan 29, 2009 @ 3:22 am
- A great read but need lot of time to read for sure.. lolz... It is going to be one of my favies...
You may like to spare few minutes at my lenses here:)
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- cannedguds cannedguds Oct 14, 2008 @ 2:36 am
- I really like to learn how to write a good resume and this lens of yours hit me right between the eyes! Thank you very much for sharing! After I got a job, I'll treat you to my first salary!!!!! Anyway, 5 stars for your lens!!!
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- SheWolf SheWolf Sep 17, 2008 @ 12:52 pm
- Brilliant lens Adam
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- sbucciarel sbucciarel Sep 12, 2008 @ 11:01 am
- Great lense. The Firestorm Forum is great for promoting your lenses and blogs. There's a very active Squidoo community there. firestormforum.com Hope you check it out. I also have a lense about it at http://www.squidoo.com/firestorm
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