Make a good impression with your CV
Nearly two-thirds of employers say CVs are often too long. Many have essential details missing, for instance their contact details are wrong or left out altogether. And employment dates are often missed out, with periods between jobs left unexplained.
More than a quarter of those surveyed say applicants only state what kind of experience they have and to say what type of job they are looking for.
Recruiters say they are impressed by good presentation of covering letters and CVs, with a clear layout and no obvious spelling mistakes or typos.
Top tips:
- Keep your CV short.
- Include all your personal details.
- State the job you are applying for.
- Make sure your covering letter and CV are free of mistakes.
Get your online applications right
More than half of employers say the most common mistake for online applications is to forget to attach a CV.
They also say they don't like to see that they are just one of many people to whom you've sent the same general email, especially if you don't even mention their company.
Almost 20 per cent complain about people applying from abroad who expect the employer or recruitment agency to get them a work permit.
Top tips:
- Make sure you attach a CV.
- Make covering emails personal.
- Make sure you've got a work permit, if you need one.
Make a good impression at your interview
Employers complain that the most common failing of applicants is not researching the company for their interview. Not being able to answer questions and lying fail to impress too. And dressing too casually is a turn-off for many employers too.
Employers also appreciate applicants who obviously have thought about the job you are applying for. Showing you are tidy and hygiene-conscious when applying for a post in a kitchen, for instance.
Top tips:
- Do some research.
- Take time to prepare for likely questions.
- Don't be dishonest.
- Dress smartly and appropriately.
Worst-ever interviewees: true stories
We asked employers for their worst ever-interview experiences. Here are the worst of the worst:
"He came in, sat down and said 'Do you mind if I smoke?'"
"He said he'd just finished a night shift and the next minute he was snoring."
"I could tell the girl was nervous by her shaking hands ? then she just threw up all over me!"
"He turned up with his baby, saying he couldn't find a childminder."
"He'd obviously come straight from the kitchen where he worked. He had food all down his shirt."