How to nail a job interview and stand out from other applicants
Шрифт:
2017–2020: Vodacom Congo SpRL, DRC Information Systems Specialist (Intern)
– Wrote and debugged programs and complex SQL queries for customer consumption forecasting. As part of my role at Tshwane University of Technology,
I have developed a Java stream processing application running on the S5 platform for detecting algorithmically generated domain names in DNS queries.
I have also standardized procedures regarding 'Scalable and Elastic Event Processing' (SEEP) and secured applications by enforcing Information Flow Control policies within middleware.
The majority of companies and recruiters are known to use applicant-tracking systems so as to scan CVs for particular key words that can be seen in the job description.
Thus, if you plan to apply for an advertised job , you should analyze the job description and detect these key words in order to insert them naturally into your CV .
Remember: the more matches the system finds between the job description and your CV, the more likely your CV will be considered by a real recruiter.
Let’s imagine that you want to build up your career in the field of web management. Here is a good example of how to achieve it with the help of obvious key words.
It’s worth mentioning that if you write some of them with initial capital letters (e.g. Web Producer), it will make your keywords stand out to the human recruiter (but obviously makes no difference if your CV is scanned automatically). Quite the reverse, if you manage to include one of the key words-web several times in your CV ( in such combinations as website,Web Producer, Web Developer , web content , web services, etc.), a recruiter’s software will be able to find them increasing the chances of having your CV selected
Summary: Work Experience
We recommend :
separating each experience so that it will look the following:
1) date
2) company/organization
3) position
4) key roles played (plus a web link to the company, so that an HR manager can find out more about your working places
– putting dates in a reverse chronological order.
–using verbs without pronouns at beginning of sentences (e.g. Improved rather than I improved).
– Inserting as many key words as possible.
– Avoiding using personal pronouns
– Making your experience look both relevant and dynamic.
– How to present your skills correctly
SKILLS TECHNICAL SKILLS When writing your resume, it is important to include technical skills that meet the job requirements or that you believe would be beneficial for the position you are applying for.
LANGUAGE SKILLS When you describe language skills, you can use the following terms:
– Mother tongue
– Fluent (spoken and written)
– Good working knowledge (indicating that you have enough proficiency to carry out your work)
–Scholastic (only mention if the job specifications specifically mention these languages and you believe it would increase your chances of getting the job).
To demonstrate your language skills, you can list the English examinations you have taken, such as the TOEFL exam, IELTS and other international exams
– How to attract an interview’s attention by personal interests
Personal interests are crucial as they provide insights into your personality and character that may not be evident in the rest of your CV. They are unique and can give HR professionals a better understanding of who you are as a person. When mentioning your personal interests, it is important to consider the following:
1. Showcasing your social conscience: Include any voluntary or charity work you have done, as it demonstrates your commitment to helping others.
2. Highlighting leadership skills: Mention any experiences where you have been a team captain or sports trainer, as it reflects your ability to lead and motivate others.
3. Demonstrating communication skills: Include activities that require effective communication, such as public speaking or debating.
4. Fun and positive connotations: Mention hobbies that are enjoyable and have a positive impact, such as salsa dancing or playing the saxophone. Also, include interesting and creative activities like acting, pottery, or short story writing.
5. Indicating responsibility: If others consider you to be responsible, mention activities like babysitting or pet-sitting.
6. Unusual without being strange: Include unique hobbies like acrobatics, which can make you stand out without seeming odd.
Avoid mentioning common activities that most people do, such as reading or traveling.
Instead, be specific and mention your favorite books or destinations. Avoid activities that are political, religious, or contentious, such as hunting or shooting. HR professionals are interested in your ability to work in a team and your social skills.
Therefore, avoid mentioning solitary or nerdy activities like computer games or stamp collecting. Be cautious when mentioning activities that may be perceived negatively by some companies. For example, being a blood donor may require time off work for which the company has to pay you, which may not be ideal for them. Lastly, avoid mentioning activities that people tend to have strong opinions about, such as board games or role-playing games. These can be divisive and are best avoided.
– How to write correct references and reference letters
REFERENCES AND REFERENCE LETTERS Including references in your CV is a common practice that allows potential employers to verify your background and learn more about your skills and personality. It is an important part of the screening process for HR professionals. To include references in your CV, make a section titled "References" at the end. List three or four individuals who can serve as your referees and provide the following information: