CV and interview briefing – from Chess Partnership

Some brief advice on CVs and preparing for interviews…

Preparing a CV

• It should be simple and easy to read
• Focus on the key points- leave the detail for the interview
• Keep it short, the CV should be not more than two pages if possible
• Make sure the information in the CV is relevant to the interview
• List your latest job first
• Use positive language in preparing your CV and stress your achievements
• Be honest
• Give useful contact details, such as address, phone numbers (work, home, mobile) and e-mail address.

Preparing for the interview

• Research the company. Read the press, look at the Company web site, use a search engine to check any references to it on the web.
• If you will be based at a particular unit or location, then try to visit it prior to the interview.
• Think of questions you might be asked and how you might answer them.
• Prepare questions to ask at the interview.
• Think about what to wear; if in doubt dress more formally than casually.
• Whatever you decide to wear, look smart and well presented.
• Make sure you know where the interview is, who you are meeting and how you are going to get there.
• Leave plenty of time to get to the interview.

At the interview

• Try to be as relaxed and confident as possible
• Be friendly, positive and honest
• Think about the questions before answering
• Give clear, concise answers- don't waffle

Sample interview questions you may be asked

• What attracted you to this position?
• Why are you leaving your present job?
• Why were you in your previous job for such a short/long time?
• What were your major achievements in your last job?
• What do you look for in a manager?
• What are your greatest strengths/weaknesses?
• How do you motivate people?
• What would your colleagues say about you?
• What was your biggest mistake?
• Where do you see yourself in 5 years' time?

Article courtesy of recruitment consultants Chess Partnership