Job application and interview tips that you need to find your big break in your job search from successful job seekers. Read on and take some notes!
The process of getting a job is determined by these stages (that is if you are using the right channels). The application stage involves submitting a cover letter and CV, the shortlisting stage - where your application will do you justice, and the interview stage determines the fate of your hard work.
For many job seekers and those looking for greener pastures, there is more tension at the interview stage than in any of the other stages. At some point, you even doubt why you were shortlisted. The rate at which your heart pumps will be doubled with both mixed feelings. But the beauty is that preparation will give you a breather. We spoke to successful job seekers who shared their job application and interview tips that can help you too.
Time management
The old saying that never grows old. Time management is key if you ever want to be successful at something in life. Beating the application deadline and making it to the interview on time will actually land you a job. This job application and interview tip came in high on our list.
“ I once learned the hardest lesson in a job application, and that was never to submit my application late. It was not even the deadline day yet, but the hiring company had put a limit on the number of applications they were to receive. But as lazy as human beings can be, I decided I will submit it a day before the deadline. Spent an entire week chilling. Unfortunately, when I thought to send my application, it was returned saying the recipient’s mail storage was full.
From that day, when I see a job advert, I send my application as soon as I can. I am not saying you should send any kind of application even without preparation, but the key thing is to do it in the shortest time possible. This is one of the reasons why I have this job today.” says Brenda, Sales and Marketing Officer.
Study the job description
“Truth be told, I never knew how important this was until a friend advised me about it and I gave it a shot. There is always that one application and interview I will always remember. During a time when I was so desperate to get a job, I saw this job advert for Human Resources Assistant at a great NGO. I do not know why I paid more attention to my CV and cover letter than ever before. I carefully studied the job description and aligned it perfectly with my CV and cover letter. Exactly three weeks after, I got a phone call at 9:33 am inviting me for the interviews.
So I contacted my Auntie who is senior human resource personnel to help me prepare well for the d-day. She asked me for the advert, we read through the job descriptions and she asked me questions in line with each responsibility and duty. When the interview day came, I was nervous of course. However, all my fears vanished when I was asked questions that actually I had prepared for a day earlier. There is nothing I could not answer. Ever walked out of an interview room feeling victorious? that was me. Sadly I turned down the offer a week later because of other reasons, but I did enjoy the process”. Says Faith, (HR Assistant)
Practice your answers
We all know those moments when you sing a song in your head and when you try to finally sing it out loud, a burst of loud laughter from your friends follows. The same thing is bound to happen when you keep your answers in your head. Ask a friend, preferably one who will be able to give you advice in the area and practice. You can request them to review your CV and practice how to answer different interview questions and also approach different application questions. This is one of the job application and interview tips that will boost your confidence.
“The more you practice these answers the better you arrange your words. I recall when I was fresh out of campus and I could not make it past the interview stages because I could not talk about myself professionally. There is this interview I did and I was not successful but the Human Resource Manager was kind enough to give me feedback as to why. He said that my introduction of myself spoilt 75% of the chances.
Being in a Public Relations role, my performance in that area was highly valued. So before I went for more interviews, I started practicing how best I could answer this question. I would record myself on my phone and listen after and also ask friends for advice. The first recording I listened to gave me a clear reason as to why I am home without a job. It was terrible. A month down the road, I was more confident and articulate than ever. As they say, preparation is a mother of success, this time around I was the mother of success. I nailed my interview and even got more than my salary range, the panel said I had more experience than needed.” Kiambu Val.
Have extra copies of your CV, a notebook, and a pen
When faced with a panel of more than two people, there is a high likelihood that not all of them will have a copy of your CV. Take this chance and put this interview tip into practice. Go into the interview room with at least three extra copies to share with other interviewers. As they say, interviews are for showing off your abilities, do not leave anything to chance.
“I never carry my resume to interviews. This day, however, I had some extra copies in my bag that I forgot to remove while at home. Getting into the interview room, one of the panelists asks the secretary for my CV, when I saw It was taking a bit longer, I quickly dived into my big bag and handed out two copies of my CV. The smile on their faces said it all. The mood in the room changed, there was a certainty that I had got the job. The Manager commended me on my preparation and said that they are looking for someone who can work ahead of time. That was me. “ Ainsley, Graduate Intern at Gate Group.
Follow up on your applications and interviews
There is nothing easy about following up on your job application or interview. But who said good things come easy? Calling up your hiring manager and inquiring about the progress of your job application or interview will need you to pull some ‘big boy strings’. With your emotions on the line, you have got to do it anyway.
It may be the answer you are waiting to get or not. But it will save you time and uncertainty. Here's Austin's experience:-
“Hello, am I speaking to the Human Resources Manager of KHL Group?” I asked calmly.
“Yes you are, how can we help you?” She replied.
“I am kindly inquiring if you were shortlisted for the position of Human Resources Associate that was advertised two weeks back on your website.”
“Oh, we actually decided to hire internally dear. But in case of any more opportunities, we shall consider your application.”
Two weeks later, I was called by the same person inviting me for interviews for Human resources Associate saying they needed more help in the department. I went through the process swiftly and started work a week later. Following up on my application actually gave me a green light ahead.” Austin, Human Resources Associate.
Have a positive mindset
This is one of the most overlooked job application and interview tips. I will say it over again, you can send out thousands of applications but with a negative mindset, you will never be successful. What you believe in, is what you will get. When you see a job advert and you like it, see yourself being in that role. Write your application with an attitude of expectation. Research the workplace, visualize where you will park your car, and see yourself arrive every morning to work. It all begins in your mind.
“I used to say to everyone that you cannot get a job without a connection. Well, for a whole year I was at home without a connection and a job. When I told my sister about it, she told me that unless I believed I could get a job on merit and with no other paths, my circumstances were bound to remain the same. That was it. I thought to myself for a while and focused on my CV and cover letter doing me justice in the roles I applied to. Two months later, I was invited to an interview with a very big construction group. To my surprise, the hiring manager mentioned that only three people had applied for the job, and the other two could not make it for the interview. I got the job.” Gloria, Junior Engineer.
"Job searching can be frustrating, but one needs to be confident in themselves. It is also important to be objective. Many job seekers will fail to apply for a job because a friend told them so or the tabloids published something about that company. Trust your gut, our personal journeys and stories are different. While preparing your CV and cover letter, keep it professional. It is key that you pay attention to the job description as you highlight your experiences and achievements. When you make it to the interview stage, prepare enough. Personally, I read a lot of career advice articles which helped me through my interview process." Maryanne, Professional Biologist.
With these job applications and interview tips, I am sure that your dream job is within your grasp. Buckle up and put these job applications and interview tips into practice. Do not forget to share your life-changing experiences about your job search in the comment section.
