1. Applying for jobs you are not qualified for. (From a jobseekers perspective you have to try …. certainly in a skill shortage market)

2. Sending generic cover letter’s. (Absolutely agree – you won’t get called for interview in a tough job market)

3. Seen-it-a-million-times Objective on your CV “challenging opportunity with a forward-looking company where I can utilise my knowledge, experience and skills to our mutual advantage.” (You can forget about these right now – worst start possible to a CV – no point!!)

4. Making your CV a list of past duties. (You have to make an impact and include achievements!!)

5. Lie or exaggerate about ANYTHING (Are all CV’s not self promoting documents. In fact most hiring managers expect some lies on a CV. I have to agree with this point though …. do a CV well and you don’t have to lie)

6. Keep making repetitive “notice-me” calls to ask if your CV was received. (Yes this can be harassment – one call or ideally call before you send it)

7. Slow response to messages left on your answering machine or voicemail. (You obviously don’t need the job if this is the case)

8. Lack of flexibility for phone-screening interviews. (Previous comment)

9. Not providing salary requirements when requested prior to the interview. (If asked provided – if don’t have one then let employer know your current salary)

10. Fail to research the company prior to the interview. (No brainer!!)

11. Arrive at your interview late. (Previous comment)

12. Rude to the receptionist. (especially if the person at reception is on the interview panel)

13. “See attached CV” instead of filling application completely. (Lazy!!)

14. Lack of interview preparation. (EHHHH!!! – forget about annoying the hiring manager – you are wasting your time attending interview)

15. Ask “What’s in it for ME?” type questions at the interview. (Well “me” is part of the process so you can ask these questions but just disguise them)

16. Fail to send a thank-you letter after the interview. (not that common in Ireland BUT nice touch!!)

17. Call for update before decision date (this is a number one annoyance – don’t do it)

Measurability (Career, HR & Outplacement Experts) was established in early 2006 to support jobseekers and employers nationwide. Demand for services has prompted Paul to establish to websites focusing on CV’s and Interviews.

Information on Interview Coaching or Competency Based Interview preparation.
Information on professional CV writing service.

The sites will be developed over the coming months to offer a wide range of free tips and advice.

CVsolutions will also include some free advice for jobseekers who want to go it alone and develop their own CV. You will find excellent CV Tips & Advice and Cover Letter Tips. There is expert opinion on CV Layout and CV Format. You will also find CV Examples and CV Samples

Interviewsolutions will also be developed to offer free advice for jobseekers who want to prepare on a budget. There are many interview preparation tips, interview questions and interview answers. This information will help your interview skills and interview techniques.

HR & Recruitment keeping you uo tp date with all the latest HR & Recruitment News, Tips and Advice. HR & Recruitment Ireland.

Each workshop is limited to 15 places so book now to avoid disappointment – email paul@measurability.ie or via booking for contact us

CV & COVER LETTER WRITING TIPS

Here are some CV Writing Tips & Help that will ensure you create an impact CV. There are also CV Templates and CV Samples & Examples. To support your CV here are some excellent Cover Letter Tips.

INTERVIEWS, INTERVIEW TIPS & JOB INTERVIEWS

Most job seekers will face a traditional interview and these Interview Tips, Techniques & Skills will help improve your performance. Practice some of the more popular interview questions and answers. For those facing structured interviews this information on competency based interviews should help.

www.cvsandinterviews.ie – Offers expert advice on CV preparation and Interview preparation. Interview Coaching tips and techniques to help you succeed in the job market.

www.cvs4jobs.ie – Offers expert advice on how to prepare a killer CV. There are also related career topics.

www.careersandjobs.ie – Offers advice on everything to do with Careers and Jobs. Read excellent post from a leading Irish Career Coaches, Interview Coaches and CV experts.

www.jobsnews.ie – Offers up to date jobs news in Ireland – new job creation and job loss.

www.hrandrecruitment.ie – Offers articles about hr and recruitment issues in Ireland such as psychometric testing and outplacement services.

I hope you find the above sites useful.

2. Poor appearance – Always sway to the side of caution. Many companies now operate casual clothing arrangements but suit and tie unless you are told otherwise.

3. Poor preparation – Know what the employer wants and how you meet these needs with supportive evidence.

4. Mess up the basics – Basic like arriving on time.

5. Over enthusiasm OR lack of enthusiasm – How you say it and your body language is as important as the words you say. You only have one chance to make a first impression. Lack of enthusiasm or perceived desperation can kill your chance of landing a job.

6. Any negativity – avoid at all costs particularly about previous roles, employers and companies. Keep your comments positive

7. Poor listening skills – If you are unclear about a question that has been asked seek clarification rater than rambling on about unrelated stuff. Listening is a key interviewing skill.

8. No supporting evidence – Supporting evidence creates a bigger impact. Be able to back up what you say you can do with examples.

9. Lies damn lies – Lies will come back to bite you on the backside.

More mistakes you should avoid!!!!

There are some interesting blog posts on this site offering FREE advice on interview preparation. Preparing for interviews is the key to success. There is a fine line between interview success and interview failure and preparation can ensure that you get more success than failure.

Key areas to cover when preparing for interviews include;

- Try to access information about the recruitment process
- Research the employer and the industry
- Identify what the employer is looking for
- Identify how you meet those needs and supporting evidence
- Know your CV

Good luck with your interviews