Got a job interview? This is what you should know!

Before going into any interview it is crucial that you research the company you are applying for a job with. Job interviews can often be misconstrued and not seen as a two-way street. However, interviews are not just for the employer, it is also a great way to see whether the role fits your needs. By viewing your interview in this way will also help to reduce the pressure many employees feel when being interviewed.

So I've got an interview...what do I need to know?

Firstly and perhaps most importantly, you should know exactly what the company does. Not understanding who and what the company does can severely effect your chances of being hired. The best way to source this type of information is usually via the company's website and even Wikipedia.

Knowing the role for which you are being interviewed for is also essential. By understanding your duties will also make it easier to demonstrate and explain what makes you the best candidate for the job.

Many of the interviewees you will meet will explain what it is the company does. However, to really create an impression and show the interviewer that you have done your homework, it is perhaps an added advantage if you can explain 'why they do it'. Why does the company do what it does? This type of information can often be found in the company's mission and values.

A company's function and mission can often be broad, but knowing what they have been doing recently in order to achieve their goals can give you an added appeal. A great way to to do this, is to ask yourself whether the company is offering any new products or services or are perhaps expanding or even acquiring new offices. By knowing this information will help show that you didn't just glance at the company's homepage. It also shows a real genuine interest in the job and company itself.

So who makes up the management team? Although most common with corporate based industries, many company's will give a brief bio on who their key leaders are on their company website.

Finally and also importantly, who is your interviewer?  Always find out the name of the person interviewing and their position. Most of the time, the person interviewing you, will be your boss if you are successful, so always be prepared!

Want some more interview tips? Taylor Green Recruitment provides all the necessary interview tips required to ensure that you are well prepared and your interview is successful.

www.taylor-green.co.uk/Candidates/Interview-Tips

The importance of a cover letter

There is a common discrepancy in whether a cover letter is essential or in fact necessary when applying for a job. Cover letters are however the perfect opportunity to tell your story as an addition to your resume. A cover letter although, should not duplicate information which appears in your CV and should simply highlight the reasons why you are interested in a certain position, describing your professional skills and achievements.

There is often doubt as to whether a cover letter should be submitted alongside your CV. However, if in doubt its better to submit it than not to. Your personal cover letter is a great way for someone you have never met before to become interested in you and what you can do. Even the shortest cover letter is an additional way of getting someones attention.

Knowing what to say or what to write in a cover letter can be tricky as it needs to be both precise and relevant...waffling is not an option! Keeping it both short and sweet, here are some of the ways in which you can create a great cover letter to along side your great CV.

Firstly, keep it simple. By structuring your cover letter as follows; brief introductory line, your work experience, your accomplishments and finally, meeting request. When writing about your work experience it is important to word it so that it is relevant to the job you are applying for. Any skills included should also be relevant and beneficial to the company and job role.

Always ensure that your cover letter fits on one page. By being concise and to the point, will also help to ensure that one page is enough. No employer has time to read through reams of information, so don't let them get bored... always keep them interested!

Before sending over your cover letter and even your CV, it is essential that you thoroughly read through the job description of the job you are applying for. Make notes on what you are expecting to gain from the job and what the employer is expecting from you. Always keep this in mind whilst writing your cover letter and tailoring your CV. However it is important that you do not write any false information as it can sometimes lead to unpleasant situations.

Your opening sentence should include the job role that your are applying for. In addition, you should dedicate a couple of sentences to your previous work experience keeping it relevant at all times. Keep it brief and do not go into too much detail as it can be both a waste of time and space. Try to give examples. By giving a few examples about your professional achievements can help persuade the employer that you are the right person for the job.

Finally...the grand finale. The conclusion to your cover letter should include a short notice detailing a meeting and to tell the employer that you are looking forward to hearing from them.

So what else is important? Ensuring that your spelling and grammar is accurate is crucial. Errors will only distract the employer and spoil their impression of you. Proof read carefully!

If you would like further advice on how to write a cover letter or CV contact Taylor Green recruitment on 0161 255 2760 today! Taylor Green also offers interview tips and a CV writing service. Visit us online to find out more - www.taylor-green.co.uk