14
May

Part 1

LinkedIn – if you’re not on it properly, that’s a critical condition also known as “how not to land the role you want”.

In my previous article I went through some inside tips and tricks to getting yourself into that new job you’ve always wanted. Now I’m going to give you some tips on sprucing up your online self with a strategic LinkedIn profile, showing why you are the one that coveted employer needs to have in their team.

Alpha Resumes has a handy LinkedIn Cheat Sheet here with some top tips to think about when developing your LinkedIn profile, and, together with that the following, could help you land that next perfect role. All you’ll need is a bit (well, a lot) of typing and thinking.

Giving yourself an online makeover is an involved process, so I’m going to tackle it in two parts. In Part 1, we’ll look at experience, education, certifications, photos and some general tips on getting it all together. Then, after building the skeleton of your profile, in Part 2 we’ll put the muscles on by walking through the “About” and “Skills” sections. While shorter, they are critical.

I’ll also take you through the all important ATS-busting tips on how to make your profile really stand out so you can beat the automated gatekeepers and safely get through to human eyes.

So, there’s a lot to absorb, but persevere to the end and it could pay off handsomely for you!

But why try? Isn’t LinkedIn just Facebook for corporates?

Not at all! Whilst LinkedIn is great for connecting with people you’ve worked with, it’s so much more. Employers are increasingly using it to assess and search for new candidates. If your profile isn’t sparkling it won’t speak to those prospective employers or recruiters. A poor LinkedIn presence equals poor prospects. And even worse, if you have no profile, you’ve mastered what spies have long tried to be: invisible! While that’s a great skill for a job with ASIO, it could kill your chances of landing that dream role.

So, whether you’re using LinkedIn already, or yet to take the plunge, there’s a stack of things you’ll need to do to maximise your prospects of firstly getting found and secondly getting remembered. So, get your CV out, freshen it up, load up your profile, and we’ll go through them carefully together and get you looking enticing to employers.

It’s more than just a date

Starting with the bleeding obvious, LinkedIn will ask you to identify the start and end dates of each of your jobs. Month and year is necessary, as it will show employers exactly how long you’ve spent in a role. Including just the year will make it look like you’ve got gaps you’re plastering over.

So here’s the thing….

This is where LinkedIn can get tricky – if you’ve had some time out of the game, a gap becomes obvious. And employers, like nature and flatmates, abhor a vacuum. If you do have a career gap, be sure to explain why. If it was for extended travel for example, put that in. If it was for an involuntary break, think back to what you were doing then – did you complete any courses? Any volunteering? These can show an employer giving you the once over that you know how to make the best use of whatever life throws at you.

It’s also very important to have a current role listed – you won’t reach “All Star” status with LinkedIn (yes, they seriously have such a rating) unless you include a current role. Now if you’re currently at leisure during working hours, think about completing a course or doing something in the community that could be of benefit.

But wait there’s more

Be sure to include your education – not as far back as primary school, but go back as far as you need to go to show you have the skills required for the role you’re hankering after. If the education is relevant but not recent, omit the dates.

However, just like Goldilocks the balance has to be just right – don’t go so far back you look dated or show your age if you’re at the more senior end of your career, but nonetheless enough to paint a picture of the perfect you.

Anything you can’t do I can do better

There’s also a section for all your licences and certifications, like your Construction White Card, EWP ticket, or anything and everything that allows you to do things that others can’t. Even that First Aid Course or Working with Children Check can be included.

If you’re in education or writing, there are place to include your publications. And if you’re in the fine arts line or a role with a portfolio, there are even places you can link to your samples of your work.

But no matter who you are, there’s one more thing all profiles need….

The Ultimate Selfie

On LinkedIn you’ll need a good, clear, professional looking headshot. It doesn’t have to be a formal studio portrait by a professional – just find an empty, light coloured wall with no marks, and a good light source, and get a friend to take a shot on their phone or digital camera. Make sure there’s no dark spots or uneven shadows. Good, clean, even lighting is critical. Focus on getting from just below your shoulder line upwards into the frame in a nice balanced picture. Consider removing your glasses, as they’ll reflect too much light.

Wear what you’d wear to work – if you’re usually out on site, flash that hi-vis. If you’re in an office gig, a jacket and tie (if you’re of the tie wearing variety) or a good shirt and a jacket (if you’re not). Look cool, calm and collected – no grins or laughing smiles. A warm, open and confident looking expression will exude all the features your future employer is looking for.

There’s also filtering options that come up before you hit “post” on your profile pic, so make use of them and get the lighting and the tones just right.

And no actual selfies – the angle is all wrong. And no photos from your best mate’s wedding – that sparkly wine glass in your hand may spell au revoir for a serious employer.

Which brings me to my next point.

You change your clothes every season, so change your online ones too!

Don’t use a photo that doesn’t look like the you that you are now. If you’ve cut your hair a foot shorter, or given the beard the flick, get a new photo. You don’t want to surprise your potential boss with a you that doesn’t match the you they’re expecting to see.

It also pays to tweak your profile text every 6 months or so with a new skill you’ve picked up in your current role, or even just rearrange some words in a section, because search engines and the web crawlers’ recruiters use will often pick up on this activity.

A word of caution though: be very careful not to disclose sensitive or confidential information anywhere on your profile – use neutral language that expresses the skill without the full pack drill of names and places. Remember, LinkedIn is public, everyone will see your profile, including your current employer, so play it safe and be discreet.

But you said it wasn’t like Facebook

Well, there is one way it is. LinkedIn isn’t just people, it’s groups as well. It pays to join professional groups that are relevant to your industry. There’s a spot for those on your profile, and it’s a hook that recruiters and employers will use to locate people with skills they’re after.

Following organisations and groups that relate to your industry means they’ll show up on your profile. That can be a helpful marker to the person eyeing you off against other candidates. But be judicious – don’t follow everyone and everything in sight. Pick the key ones that are relevant to your background or the role you’re after. But be discerning. Less is more. But too few is fatal. Argh! I hear you growl. “So how many am I supposed to have then?!”

Well this is where Goldilocks gets another mention – it’s all about getting that golden mean happening. There is a huge “hidden job market” out there for roles that never even make it on to the recruiter’s desk, because employers often use networks and connections to fill roles directly. So strategically connect with people you’ve worked with who could introduce you to people at other companies, or connect with stakeholders you’ve struck along the way in your career. This way, you can expand your network with a clear purpose in mind.

Strategic is the key here – don’t just accept everyone who wants to connect. Think about those who can help you on to the next role and give you the links and exposure you need, and then go for it. Quality connections are paramount.

You just said less is more. So why is there more?

Yes, there is more. A lot more. The most crucial two parts of your LinkedIn profile are the “About” section and the “Skills” section. They’re tough to do well, and in Part 2 we’ll look at breaking down these tasks into manageable chunks so that when you’re done with your online self, you’ll have the best possible profile you can present. So, come back for Part 2 where we’ll look at how to complete the “About” and “Skills” sections, along with some final tips to make your profile truly sing your praises.

And if you can’t wait till then, give us a call or get in touch today. We’ll dig deep in our discovery process and build you a new set of documents that extract the essence of you that employers want to meet.

Let us renovate your resume and the online you, and we’ll leave you in the best position to land that next position.

Effective Job Search Strategies

Developing Your CV and Personal Brand for an Effective Job Search

Posted on 07/05/202031/05/2020 by Alpha Resumes

07
May

Caught the COVID Contractor Chills? Recently “rightsized” out of your role?

Here’s some tips and tricks to get back on the bike and get yourself set for the next role –with a bit of thought, planning and research you could even get a better one than before!

First of all, but hardest of all: Don’t Panic!

Employers have a fine-tuned nose for desperation, like a winetaster sensing a good drop’s just past its prime. It’s tough when you don’t know when the next paycheque will be put in your bank account, but try not to panic. Instead, take the time to take stock, work out where you really want to work, and then work out how to sell your best asset: you.

Yes, you. After all, that’s what it’s all about, convincing the next employer that you are the one they want. And not just want, but need. With a bit of work and a lot of planning, you can get that next role not because it’s the first one that comes up but because it’s the best one for you.

So, second step: take stock of your best asset, you and all you know.

Which is a lot. Add up all the knocks and bumps and setbacks, and throw in all the courses, certificates and experience, and you’ll find the right recipe for that killer role you’ve always wanted. Get out the iPad or jump on a screen (or even go old school with paper and pen – remember them?) and make a list of all the things that make you the best choice for the job you’re after.

Be creative, think laterally – think like your future employer – think what would they want you to be? If you can’t identify what they’re after, you won’t be able to convince them you’re the next thing they urgently need. You need to list your previous roles, yes, but you need more than that. Much more than that.

Put in everything you can think of that a future employer might want to know about you (there’s plenty of time to cull later on). What about that long-forgotten Cert IV, or the training course the job before last sent you on, or the new skill you picked up in the previous role? It may well be valuable information that helps to build a compelling CV. Yes, current is king where skills are concerned, but there’s no rule against pointing to the base the skill was built from. Unless it predates CDs. Or vinyl even. Then no.

Which brings us to the third step, that’s often missed: what is it you like doing?

What sort of work interests you, that you enjoy even? What are you good at? Add that to the growing list. And think about those things you can’t stand doing. They go on the list too. There’s no point in looking for a job that will just wind you up.

Now you’ve got that long list, it’s time to cull and snap it into shape.

That means it’s on to step 4: keywords.

Keywords are just that, key words that will answer key questions that your next employer has.

Now the big hurdle that’s becoming ever more common that you’ll have to get over is AI (Artificial Intelligence). More and more employers are dealing with the large numbers of applicants for plum jobs by running CVs and cover letters through ATS technology. Applicant Tracking Systems will electronically mine the documents submitted by job seekers and pick out a subset that (the computer thinks) best match the job.

So that you’re not met with “Computer says no”, there’s two important things you need to do. Firstly, make sure your CV and cover letter match the job description as tightly as possible. Secondly, make sure the information is set out in a format the ATS can interpret. This is where the real skill in crafting your CV comes in to play. You can learn more about creating an ATS friendly resume here.

So now we have step 5: writing it all up.

This is hard yakka but it’s where the payoff is. Don’t just list your roles from most recent and go downwards. Go back to step three and pick out the two or three key achievements from each role, and quantify them. Use active voice and strong verbs. “In this role I was responsible for managing a sales team”. No! That’s just passive and generic. “Achieved a 15% increase in sales over 18 months through strong leadership and proactive coaching of three team members”. Give your new employer a measure of how you’ll impact their business (a quantifiable benefit), what you have (leadership skills), and how you show it (proactive coaching).

But even with your best strong active verbs and quantified achievements, ATS might still miss your potential. This is where crafting meets crafty. When you’ve got that fab role in your sights, do a bit of research into similar jobs. What exactly are the common themes that come up, and what does the role you want focus on? Find those, and give it to them. In their own words. That way, when the ATS system interrogates your CV, your CV can give it the answer it’s searching for. Because unless it does, you’ll never get the chance to do it in person – the computer will simply shout “next” and pass you over.

So, to make sure you get that elusive call for an interview, keep the keywords coming when you write it all up.

Then jump into step 6: cover letter!

Take your now carefully crafted keyword hugging CV and give it a twin that you tweak to match the precise roles you’re interested in. Now note I said “tweak” not “twist” – you still have to keep it real because if you do spring free of the ATS trap and land that interview, the recruiter will very quickly work out if you’ve got the goods or not. So if a key part of the job description is “must be numerate and skilled with Excel” and you can’t even work out the GST on a $100 restaurant bill let alone splitting the whole bill 4 ways, then you’re not going to get too much further down the track to the job.

So, give your CV its deserved fanfare with a tight cover letter that seamlessly matches the you in the CV to the exact role and its specific needs. You need to say who you are, why you match the role, and how to get in contact. And on one page. Just one. Yes, one.

But what about now? Will all that effort still work now?

Steps 1 to 6 are the best bet in the normal market for how to get from job seeker to new employee of the month, but what about now with half the country out of work from COVID lockdown? So many employers have put hiring on hold that it may seem tougher than a cat who opens her own cans of Fancy Feast to even score an interview let alone get the job.

So, while you’re cooling it off in iso go back to that long list you made in step 3 and work out what it is you like doing but don’t yet have skills in. Do a Cert IV and get the groundwork for a new career line happening, or a short online course to extend your existing skill set. Maybe even do that forensic investigation course you’ve always wanted to do but never had the time. Best of all in iso they’re all socially distant and online, so you can even do them in your PJs. Not just simples, but comfy too.

In my next article, I’ll look at how you can take those new and extended skills and spruce up your online self with an ATS smashing LinkedIn profile that will get you noticed. By sprucing up your online profile and including a link in your CV or cover letter, you’ll show recruiters you’ve got the goods and ensure you are putting your best foot forward before you’ve even put a foot through the door. But more of that next time!

If this all feels a touch too much, and you want some help in perfecting your resume and personal branding suite, feel free to view our resume services and get in touch today. Alpha Resumes have been helping individuals achieve their career goals for over 8 years. We dig deep in our discovery process with you and do the hard work, so you don’t have to. Leave the keywords to us and we’ll leave you with great documents!

Wishing you all the best in your job search.

Business Updates

We’re Here To Help | COVID-19

Posted on 07/05/202031/05/2020 by Alpha Resumes

07
May

2020 will be a year that many of us will never forget. With unemployment soaring and great uncertainty around the current economic climate, now more than ever is the time you need a career expert by your side. That’s why Alpha Resumes are here to continue supporting you as we all work through this difficult period.

Over the last few weeks, we have temporarily changed our operating model. All consultations are now taking place via phone or Zoom conference. This ensures we can still provide you with the essential career support and service you require, whilst doing our bit to help ensure everyone remains safe. Where possible, we are also trying to make our services as affordable and approachable as possible.

We are also using this time to closely monitor the employment market, whilst further refining our skills to ensure we can continue to provide you with cutting-edge resume writing and career support services that will help you to stand out in the current job market.

Learn more about our professional resume writing services

Get in touch today with your enquiry or question

We are here to help and look forward to working with you soon.

Jon and the Alpha Resumes Team

Choosing the Best Resume Writer

Your 101 guide to choosing the right resume service: the good, the bad and the ugly

Posted on 20/11/201931/05/2020 by Alpha Resumes

20
Nov

So, you’ve realised the value in hiring a professional to review and redo your resume. You jump online for a quick Google search, only to be greeted by a plethora of results. Overwhelmed, you close your laptop and tell yourself you’ll look into it another day.

Yes, the rise of the internet has also meant the rise of resume writers. Plug the term “professional resume writing services” into any search engine and you’ll face a never-ending list of possibilities, all spruiking an array of tantalising sales pitches.

So, how do you sift through the options and make sure you’re choosing a service that will give you genuine leverage in your career?

While there’s certainly no definitive rule to identifying a good versus bad resume service, there are some handy hints to keep at the forefront of your mind during your initial search.

Let’s start off with some major red flags to avoid:

Anything with the word ‘cheap’ advertised

While cutting costs on your weekly grocery shop is all well and good, there are certain things in life that require financial investment. Your career should be one of them.

Paying minimal costs results in minimal quality. It’s simple but true. As a general rule of thumb, any service offering to create a resume for under $200 is a pretty good sign the work will be sub-par. In these cases, work is often outsourced overseas or to a resume mill – that is, a host of low-paid writers who are pumping out up to 15 resumes a day. Needless to say, with minimal time spent, you’ll be left out of pocket and most likely starting from scratch.

Anything that offers 24-hour turnaround

Quality work takes time. A professional resume writing service – one with a team of experienced writers – will typically offer turnaround within one week at the earliest, usually two. This gives the writer enough time to consult with you, conduct the necessary research, complete a draft and polish it up with a fine-toothed comb.

At Alpha Resumes, our writers will spend a minimum of three hours’ research and professional writing time on graduate or entry-level resumes, while for managers and executives, it will generally take us at least five to six hours. Factor this into a typical work day, plus the additional time required for consultations and editing, and it’s clear that next-day delivery just isn’t practicable for high-quality work.

No reviews or fake reviews

When choosing a new service, one of the first places people will head to is the reviews section, and rightfully so. Reviews provide a solid indication of overall customer satisfaction. With more than 60 Google reviews to Alpha Resumes’ name, we can confidently say we’ve earned our right to a reputation in the field. However, plenty of services will enlist colleagues, friends – even themselves – to write fake reviews. Hence, it’s crucial you keep an eye out for anything suspicious when doing your research.

As a bit of a guide, fake reviews tend to be accompanied with generic names, non-specific feedback, repeated phrases, and questionable spelling and grammar. If you happen to spot any of these factors when scanning through the service’s testimonials or reviews, you may want to second-guess their authenticity.

Lack of authority or credibility

As mentioned above, there are tons of resume mills out there, where writers churn out pages on the daily just to keep the numbers up. This means you’ll potentially end up with a slap-dash job pocked with generic fluff that won’t help you stand out amidst the piles of resumes.

In your initial search, make sure you look for evidence that the company knows what they’re doing. Do they have a blog on their website that demonstrates thought leadership in their field? Do they have evidence of experience in professional resume writing? These can all provide clues into the kind of quality you’ll receive.

Jon Gorgioski and the small team at Alpha Resumes are university-educated, professional writers and journalists who each have a minimum of seven years’ experience in marketing, professional writing and consulting.

So, what should you be looking for when hiring a professional resume writer?

Pricing options to match your needs

The cost of a resume service can range from less than $100 to $2,000 or more, which can make it tricky to work out what’s a reasonable amount to fork out. Add to this the fact that no two individuals will have the same career path, and it makes things even more complicated.

For a CEO who’s earning hundreds of thousands of dollars a year, it may be feasible to spend upwards of $2,000 on a resume service. However, for new graduates, mid-weight professionals, tradespeople and most managers, it is more realistic to spend between $300 and $800 on perfecting your personal branding suite. Our package prices reflect the high quality of work involved, whilst remaining affordable and approachable for most.

Make sure you acknowledge your level of experience and seniority, and find a pricing option that aligns with your current career status. At Alpha Resumes, we’ve made it easy by offering a three-tiered service – simply choose the package that matches your professional background.

Personal consultations as part of the package

This is a pretty good sign that you’ll receive a more bespoke approach to your resume. Whether in person or via a phone call, a detailed consultation means the writer is invested in your personal experience and committed to showing off your career highlights.

A number of services rely on questionnaires alone or a very short phone chat, resulting in generic copy that doesn’t actually reflect who you are as a professional. That’s why our writers take the time to get to know you on a personal level – it gives them a much better chance of ensuring your resume is uniquely you. Working predominantly with clients in Melbourne and across Victoria means we create the opportunity to meet with you face-to-face. We also offer phone or Skype consultations to suit the needs of all.

The opportunity to view examples of work or designs

While the written content on your resume is vital, the layout is also key to capturing your next employer’s attention. Before choosing a professional service to clean up your resume, it’s a good idea to enquire about the way their documents are designed and formatted.

However, be wary – some services tend to sport stock designs downloaded straight from the web. As such, it pays to have a sharp eye when differentiating between cut-and-copy graphics and those designed in-house that can be tailored to your needs.

Impressive branding

Professional resume writers are in the business of marketing their clients, so you’d want to be sure they can at least market themselves. Have a quick scope of their online branding – what messages are they communicating? Is their website professional, clean and easy to navigate? Do they come across as taking pride in their work? At the end of the day, you want to hire someone who practises what they preach, which makes all these minute details important.

Overall, it pays to do your research before diving head-first into the cheapest/fastest/most convenient resume service. By taking a few mental notes along the way, you can filter your search and save yourself time and money down the track.

Give your resume the treatment it deserves

Want to know more about how Alpha Resumes can fine-tune your resume and give you the best possible chance of standing out? Discover who we are and what we do or get in touch today.

Resume Writing Guides

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS): How to Win Them over with Your Resume

Posted on 06/06/201931/05/2020 by Alpha Resumes

06
Jun

As online processes continue to make our lives easier in some respects, they can complicate things in others. An online application process often means that you can apply for new roles quickly in just a few clicks by uploading your resume and filling out some basic information. This ease in applying however, does mean that a single role can often receive hundreds of applications. HR departments and recruiters are constantly under the pump to assess them all, which is where Applicant Tracking Systems/ Software (ATS) often comes in to lend a hand.

ATS acts as a filter to cut down the amount of work required by the person reviewing the resumes, and while this is great for that person, it can be bad news for job seekers if they are unaware of how to design their resume accordingly. Luckily, Alpha Resumes are here to help, but let’s learn a little more about ATS and how you can bypass its sturdy gates!

What does an Applicant Tracking System do?

ATS is software that scans and ranks job applications when high numbers of applications are being received. Most recruiters and larger companies in Australia use ATS software, and this process has also started to filter down to smaller organisations and businesses due to its time-saving benefits.

The ATS software organises the content of a resume into categories, often by identifying keywords to locate the most qualified applicants for the role, or at least the ones that the recruiter should give time to reviewing. Primarily, the software aims to remove the least-qualified candidates from the list of potential hires. In reality, it also removes poorly written and formatted resumes and those that are missing the right content and buzz words, which is an essential point to keep in mind to ensure your application has a shot at being seen.

Writing an ATS-friendly resume

There are some common resume mistakes that, regardless of how qualified you may be, will see the end of your application before it has even had a chance. The following points are some essential tips to keep in mind when designing and writing your resume to keep the ATS checks happy, acquiring the green light.

Customer looking at the Facebook Ads Inventiva created for her online business

Correct file types

Most people offer their resumes in a Word or PDF file type; however, not all ATS software will like this. To be safe, it’s best to check which file types the job ad or application process specifies, as this is an easy way to fall short very quickly from a simple oversight. If you want to play it safe, submit a Word document in .doc or .docx or a plain-text file, as pretty much all ATS software will accept these. If however, the software specifies that it accepts PDF, then, by all means, keep your resume in that format, just be diligent and double-check.

Pro tip: Keep crucial information out of the header and footer sections if you do use a Word document as some ATS software has trouble identifying these sections

The importance of keywords

The most important thing you can do to ensure success with ATS is to optimise your resume with relevant keywords. The best way to identify which keywords are relevant to the position you are applying for is by studying job descriptions of a similar nature and making a note of the common terms and criteria.

Once you know what your keywords are, the placement and frequency are essential. This works in a similar fashion to using keywords on a website to get it ranking in search results on Google. The keywords help with rankings and visibility for the content. The catch, however, is that these words need to be organic and relevant. The excessive use of keywords or using the wrong keywords to try and get the attention of a search engine, can often do more harm than good, as well as create a poor experience for the reader.

You can also make this information easy to find by using bullet points to list relevant terms. Ensure that you mention these skills elsewhere in your resume as well. Be sure to also use particular names of systems you have skills in, for example, MYOB or Xero, as opposed to simply mentioning generic skills like accounting software packages. Popular abbreviations should also feature along with the full versions of these titles, e.g., skilled in Search Engine Optimisation should also include the term SEO and vice versa.

Avoid graphics

The design of your resume is important, but the use of graphs or images to convey critical information will not go down well with an ATS. The software is unable to read graphics, meaning any info in them does not exist. This can also apply to how you display bullet point information. We strongly recommend using bullet points; however, keep the symbol for your bullets simple. A solid circle or square looks professional and ensures your resume will be compatible with an ATS.

Further to this point, intricate design elements and unusual formats can sometimes seem like a great way to ensure your resume stands out, but they can also confuse the system. To avoid this, keep things simple, minimal, and professional. As amazing as your design may look, it is pointless if it’s never seen.

The best ATS resume format

A standard, hybrid resume format is the safest bet when it comes to an ATS application. This incorporates a professional profile or summary section which outlines vital information followed by a chronological history of your experience. Chronological data is one of the main ways ATS determines your qualification level.

Need a little help?

We understand that this may seem overwhelming, especially when it seems so easy to make a mistake that will render your application near pointless. To avoid this, Alpha Resumes are here to help via our professional resume writing services!

Our extensive background in marketing and communications, along with our many years of resume writing experience, means that not only can we create the best representation of your experience for your resume, but we also know how to keep Applicant Tracking Systems happy, ensuring you get in front of the recruiters’ eyes.

Our team is continually researching the latest recruitment and resume writing trends and can help put you in the best position to acquire your new role. Speak to us today about creating your winning resume!

Interview Preparation Tips

Steps to a successful interview

Posted on 29/03/201931/05/2020 by Alpha Resumes

29
Mar

For many people, job interviews are right up there with visits to the dentist. They’re hard to avoid, though, if you want to take the next step in your career.

Feeling prepared when you walk into an interview will help your confidence and your performance, even if you never manage to eliminate your nerves completely. We look at what to do before, during, and after an interview to stand out as the best candidate for the job.

The purpose of an interview

The main reason for an interview is, of course, to see if you have the skills and experience to do the job. But finding someone that’s the ‘right fit’ is increasingly important in organisations, so it’s an opportunity to show them your personality.

It’s also your chance to explore whether the job that looked amazing on paper is right for you and to see who you might be working with.

Prepare for the meeting

Once you’re invited for interview, it’s not enough just to turn up on time – although that is vital.

Do your homework

Read the position description and job advert again. If anything isn’t clear or you’d like to know more, make a note: asking questions is a positive thing, as we explore below.

Check the website or Linked In profile of the company you’re meeting with, to see if it is involved in any major projects or has been in the news recently.

If you know someone who works there already, get in touch. People are usually happy to share their views on the culture and office environment.

Dress the part

Whether you’re face-to-face with a panel, or on a Skype call with one person, see our tips in What does your image say about you? and you’ll be dressing for success.

Settle in to the interview

A few nerves are to be expected (even interviewers will be nervous sometimes!) but always remember to smile and make eye contact.

Take a copy of your CV to refer to, plus a notebook and pen or laptop. It’s acceptable to write down people’s names if you’re faced with a panel and to make a note of what you’d like to ask later.

Often, the first question is “Tell us a little about yourself”. An open-ended question can cause people to ramble, which is not a good start! Memorise a few points that are specific to the role and keep your introduction to around two minutes, covering:

your most recent and most relevant experience
your key skills and competencies and any outstanding achievements
what motivates you about what you do

Stick to your current and immediate past roles as the rest of your history is in your resume.

Let your personality shine without dominating the conversation and you’ll find it’s easy to establish a connection with the hiring manager.

Answer questions with confidence

It’s common for interviewers to have a list of ‘behavioural’ questions. These usually start “Tell me about a time when…” and explore how you responded in a situation, rather than asking hypothetically what you would do. This makes it easier to compare candidates’ responses to each other.

Behavioural questions explore the strengths that are needed for the role, such as:

Leadership
Collaborating with others
Planning and time management
Dealing with stakeholders or customers

To answer a behavioural question well, use the simple formula C-A-R (and take a sip of water before you speak if you need a moment to think):

C: Context

Provide a bit of background to explain the environment and your role at the time, so the interviewer understands the example.

A: Action

Explain what specific action you took to respond to the task or challenge.

R: Result

Describe the outcome. This is what separates ‘hypothetical’ from ‘experienced’. Real figures add impact to your response, such as ‘a 10% increase in sales’, ‘20% increase in staff satisfaction’, or ‘reducing steps in a process from 6 to 5’.

Examples of the C-A-R model

[table id=1 /]

Don’t avoid the negatives

You may be asked about times when things didn’t go to plan, leading to unhappy stakeholders, missed deadlines or unsatisfactory outcomes.

This isn’t a trick. The interviewer wants to know how you handle less-than-ideal situations and what you learn from them. Or, if they ask what you see as your weaknesses, they’re looking for evidence of self-awareness and what steps you have taken to improve, such as mentoring or professional development.

There are a few things you should avoid, though:

Don’t exaggerate or contradict what you’ve said in your LinkedIn profile, which the interviewer will probably have read
Despite wanting to leave your current role, never criticise your current employer
Avoid being over-familiar or using humour or sarcasm that may fall flat.

Ask questions of your own

At some point the tables will be turned and you’ll be asked if you have any questions.

Saying ‘no’ makes it look as though you have little interest in the job. Show you’re motivated by asking questions such as:

I saw in your annual report that you’re starting an IT transformation this year. What benefits will that have for customers?
Does the organisation have a staff learning and development program?
I read that your CEO is leaving soon. What impact do you expect that to have on the direction of the company?

In the first interview in particular, avoid questions relating to salary or benefits unless the interviewer mentions them.

Follow up afterwards

After thanking the interviewers and asking about next steps and timelines, you’re done…almost.

Stand out from the crowd by sending a well-worded email to thank the interviewer and reiterate your interest. A phone call is an option but recruitment can be an extremely busy time for managers.

Prepare your referees for the possibility of a call. Share your CV and the position description and list the key attributes that make you a great choice.

Reflect on the interview. Write down the questions you were asked and your responses. If you’re not successful, take some time to improve them before your next interview.

Where to find help

Here at Alpha Resumes, we run one-on-one interview preparation sessions and personal coaching to help you practice and gain confidence. See Writing and coaching services or contact us to find out more.

Online resources are also available to help you prepare:

Seek.com.au has a blog to guide you through the application and interview process
Big Interview is a US site with a blog, plus free and paid guides and videos
And major recruitment consultants often have blogs with tips and guidance for all aspects of job hunting.

LinkedIn and Developing your Online Brand

What does your image say about you?

Posted on 26/02/201931/05/2020 by Alpha Resumes

26
Feb

Every day we make split-second judgments about people based on their appearance, usually without even realising. These judgments influence decisions from who to approach at a networking function to who we sit next to on the train.

In the business world, a polished and professional resume can secure an interview for the job of your dreams but what about the impression you make on the day? Before you’ve even smiled and shaken the interviewer’s hand, it’s likely he or she will have sub-consciously formed an opinion based on how you look.

At a recent style workshop I attended, many participants were going through a career transition. Yet some still said they would wear jeans to an interview because that would be the dress code once they started work.

Portraying the right image can set you apart from other candidates so let’s look at ways you can do this.

Protect your image

Your image is the perception people develop when they interact with you – and perception is a powerful thing.

Image is not about attractiveness, it’s about factors such as hair, clothing and whether you look appropriate for the position you’re seeking. These factors influence your ‘personal brand’ and you want them to say “yes, I am as professional as the image I presented in my resume”.

Your LinkedIn profile may be well written – and if it’s not, we can help you with that – but does the photo let you down? Find a local photography studio or simply ask a friend to photograph you, to avoid a too-casual selfie.

A personal brand can also be visible through social media accounts and managers often search for a candidate’s name to see what comes up. Consider restricting the visibility of your accounts unless they are appropriate for the workplace.

Dress to impress

When you’re searching for a job, chances are you’ll face at least three or four interviews so a suit or new outfit is an investment, not simply an expense.

If in doubt, go formal. For men, that means wearing a shirt and smart jacket, although a full suit is preferable. For women, the same applies. Even if the role won’t require you to wear a suit every day, an interview is a formal occasion and you want to stand out for the right reasons.

Accessorise appropriately. Let your personality shine through your well-rehearsed responses and body language, not in the cartoon tie or over-sized earrings you picked before you left home.

Quality doesn’t have to be costly. Appropriate attire can be as simple as a suit or other outfit that fits well, is clean and crease-free, and flattering for your overall shape. Plus, if you don’t need to wear it in your new role, it will last for many jobs to come.

Check whether your local department store offers a free personal shopper service: personal shoppers are stylists who can help you select anything from a single outfit to a whole new wardrobe, usually at no extra charge.

Make suitable colour choices

The colour of your clothing has a big influence on how people perceive you. A black suit is not ideal for most roles as it is dramatic and formal and conveys power. Save that for when you become CEO!

Safer colours are navy and darker blues, which instil trust, and greys, which are timeless. Safe doesn’t mean boring, though; dress things up with a splash of colour such as a green tie or orange scarf, paying attention to avoid clashing patterns.

Above all, select colours that complement your hair and skin tones and you’ll feel as good as you look, which will boost your confidence.

Focus on the little things

Good grooming and hygiene are essential in the workplace – think of them as the smaller details – so it’s no surprise the same goes for the interview.

Expectations can be subjective but a few general guidelines apply:

Wear your hair in a neat and tidy style, whatever its length
For men, clean-shaven or beard is fine. Somewhere in-between is not
Check that your nails are clean and an appropriate length

Don’t forget to look down: scuffed or too-casual footwear will detract from your image.

Treat online interviews like in-person

In our increasingly digital world, interviews by Skype or video are not uncommon as managers may work in different cities or even different countries from their teams.

The same effort should go into your personal presentation for an online interview – and that includes checking you’re not sitting in front of your fridge at home. The right image comes from finding a quiet space with good lighting and a subtle background, then dressing and behaving as if it’s an in-person meeting.

Start as you mean to go on

Ongoing style is important so don’t hang up that winning outfit as soon as you start the job. When you join a company, you’ll make a ‘first impression’ on everyone you meet.

If you’re unsure of the dress code, it’s acceptable to ask your manager before you start, or err on the side of caution and wear that suit again on day one. It’s less embarrassing – and presents a much better image – than being too casual, and you’ll soon get an idea of what is appropriate.

Dress up for promotions, too

People may know you as the helpful IT person who roams the building in cargo pants and a flannel shirt but what if you want a promotion internally?

Your appearance should present you at your best, so the interviewers have no problem picturing you in a more senior position. Dressing formally may feel unfamiliar at first but you’ll be competing with external candidates who are likely to be looking sharp.

It’s said that “you never have a second chance to make a good first impression”. The perfect resume may have landed you an interview, but your appearance needs to reinforce that you’re the best person for the role.

So invest in yourself and make an effort to look the part. Anything less and you’re doing yourself a disservice.

Resume Writing Guides

How to Write a Winning Resume

Posted on 14/02/201931/05/2020 by Alpha Resumes

14
Feb

Writing a winning resume can be extremely daunting. It takes research, time, effort and repetitive practice before you even begin to master the formatting, structure and overall content.

Think about how your resume reads.

Are all the elements 100 percent necessary?

Is every sentence written with the sole focus of proving your worth?

Creating the perfect resume can be time consuming and tough for many people, but here at Alpha Resumes, we pride ourselves on guiding you to reach your untapped potential, and land your dream role.

Here are our top resume writing tips, and guidance on each element.

CONTACT DETAILS

Are your contact details up to date?

While very simple, this section is extremely important. Why?

If your contact details are not up to date, or you email address is hotchickybabe@hotmail.com, you’re practically sealing your fate with an outcome smothered in failure.

Perception is everything, and any professional resume writer will tell you the same thing.

In short: Ensure your contact details are professional and accurate.

OPENING PROFILE

Recruiters and employers want to measure your worth in a succinct snapshot.

Let’s be real for a second. You don’t really believe you’re going to sell them on page four of your resume because that’s where all your best content is?

Resume content should be consumed quickly and easily, and you must tailor your resume with the reader in mind.

Sell yourself on the very first page, and then elaborate on important points later.

Your opening statement should read like a short narrative, be sharp, precise and to the point.

Be mindful of certain language your potential employers want to hear. The inclusion of a small handful of buzzwords is a great way to capture attention, and affirm your knowledge and experience within any industry.

In short: Summarise your talent in a short and precise narrative.

EXPERIENCE

A winning resume is nothing without a detailed table of your overall experience. But everyone knows to include their work experience and history, right?

Create a table of your overall experience, and divide your sections into role, responsibilities and achievements.

IMPORTANT: Make sure this section does not read like a position description. You’re not educating recruiters on what the position is, you are educating them on your experience, and why you are the best candidate for the role.

Also, be sure to only include relevant experience. You probably don’t want to include any work you may have done at your parent’s shop, the family restaurant, or that paper round you did on your push bike as a teenager.

In short: Include relevant experience and ensure it reads in a way that sells your skills.

KEY SKILLS

Employers want to see that you possess or are capable of learning important skill sets that are vital to finding success in your next role.

Aside from the standard customer service, money handling and communication skills you will have picked up from any retail role, think about the more intricate skills you might have learned.

Did you learn to multitask in stressful situations?

Have you learnt how to handle difficult customers and reach a viable solution for the business and customer?

Think about the sorts of things that are unique to you, and that can only have been learnt in the roles you have worked in.

Remember: A winning resume is always relevant. Don’t write about inventory management if you’re going for a role as a receptionist.

In short: Include unique and relevant skill sets which highlight your worth as an employee.

QUALIFICATIONS

This is the section to list any relevant courses, certificates or attainments.

Be mindful that you only want to include recent or relevant items in this section. If you completed a short course ten years ago, you may want to omit the date, or not mention it at all.

This is why continued upskilling goes a long way.

Most employers only care about what you’ve done in the last few years. By continually taking courses, learning from past experiences and improving your skill set, you’re proving your dedication and commitment to absolutely nailing your next role.

In short: Only mention relevant and/ or recent qualifications. Plus, have the certificates to back them up.

EXTRA ELEMENTS

While the above five elements are pivotal in the success of writing your winning resume, you can choose to include either of these as well.

But make sure that if you choose to do so, they are there for a reason.

REFEREES

Rather than listing all your referees on your resume, it can be a good idea to mention that referees can be supplied upon request, but if a job description specifically requests referees, you should always include them. This is particularly important for many government positions.

Be sure to ask permission first, and inform your referees of the possible questions or topics they might be asked.

The more prepared and aware they are, the better recommendation they can provide.

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

Some people like to include these, but they are not always vital.

Any professionally written resume will be able to sell you without mentioning attributes willy nilly . You do not need them. If including personal attributes or interests keep them to the end of your CV and ensure they are truthful, or they can easily read as a fabrication of the truth in an attempt to improve your odds.

WRITING A WINNING RESUME: FINAL THOUGHTS

Writing a winning resume can be tough, but if your structure is right, and your focus lies largely on achievements and value, you’re on your way to finding success.

If you want more in depth advice on any of these elements, and on ways in which you can highlight your achievements and value, get in touch with us for a free phone discussion or resume review.

Meeting with a professional might just be the best thing you can do to land your dream job.

HOT LINKS:

Effective Job Search Strategies

Guide to Handling Job Search Rejection

Posted on 27/01/201931/05/2020 by Alpha Resumes

27
Jan

Job search rejection is a very real prospect job hunters face every single day. When your very livelihood depends on the successful outcome of both your resume screening and interview performance, it’s perfectly reasonable for any individual to show symptoms of stress.

When you pin your hopes and dreams on an exciting new role, when you begin calculating your potential income and picture yourself sitting at a brand new desk, it can be somewhat heartbreaking when you receive that fatal phone call, or rejection email.

How are you meant to pick yourself back up when you’ve been rejected over and over again?

If you ever find yourself doubting your capabilities or wondering if you will ever be successful, try these seven different ways to deal with job search rejection, so that you can continue on with the job search process.

ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR EMOTIONS

You’re emotions are valid, and it’s important for you to acknowledge and understand exactly how you’re feeling.

Instead of suppressing your feelings, reach out to a friend and let them know. Keep the conversation informal and use it as a means of admitting your feelings to yourself.

The best way to deal with uncomfortable emotions is to face them head on.

DON’T LET JOB SEARCH REJECTION DEFINE YOU

Just because you’ve been rejected for a job, doesn’t mean your identity should be compromised. Remember that rejection is part of the process, and even the most successful individuals will have faced rejection at some points in their lives.

Thinking all employers will deem you incompetent is going to affect your mental state and overall emotional wellbeing.

Try putting yourself in their shoes for a moment. You’re faced with dozens of applicants all hoping to be hired for the recent lawyer position. They all attended university and received identical certifications. However, one individual frequently volunteers his time at the local law firm.

When it comes down to the crunch, who would you hire?

ASK YOURSELF, WHAT COULD YOU HAVE DONE DIFFERENTLY?

If we don’t learn from our mistakes, we would never have learned how to build tremendous sky rises, travel to space or develop scientific compounds.

When you are faced with job search rejection, take a step back and consider where you might have gone wrong.

Could you have monitored your tone a little more carefully during the interview?

Could you have made a follow up phone call or sent an email to show your enthusiasm?

Or do you simply need to gain some more experience?

Being honest about your efforts and recognising room for improvement is only going to benefit you in the long run.

SEEK FEEDBACK

It’s one thing to acknowledge your mistakes, but what do you do when you’re not even aware of making them in the first place?

This is where seeking feedback and constructive criticism can go a long way.

Being nervous in an interview is expected, but are you a nervous talker? It’s possible that you might be talking too much and employers can interpret this as a sign that you are conceited and arrogant. Body language at an interview can also be just as important as your spoken words.

Plus, it’s a good idea to get some constructive feedback on your resume, so that you can be confident it’s giving you the best opportunity.

REFRESH YOUR RESUME

It’s no secret that some resumes read as though they had been written by a toddler, and others can even convey an image of desperation.

Enhancing your resume could give you the long-awaited advantage you’ve been looking for.

First impressions are literally everything in the job searching game, and a professionally formatted and written resume can truly resonate with your future employer.

Contact Us Today for a free review and to see how we can help with yours.

NEVER STOP LOOKING

Okay, so you’ve landed a few interviews, should you stop looking?

Of course not.

It’s vital to keep your momentum going, even though you might have a few prospects on the horizon.

Never stop looking until you’ve received that congratulatory email or signed that contract.

TREAT YOURSELF WITH COMPASSION

It’s not surprising that beating yourself up and putting yourself down isn’t going to help you at all.

Treating yourself with compassion and kindness is great for your morale, and can boost your self-esteem. Keeping yourself in high spirits is pivotal when it comes to persevering through job search rejection.

If you’re finding things are getting a bit too tough, try slowing it down. Take up a hobby or socialise with friends. You might find treating yourself to a bit of fun will clear your mind and give you an opportunity to refocus.

CONSIDER YOUR LIMITS

Have you ever stopped to consider that you might be applying for roles that are currently beyond your reach?

While it’s always a good idea to push your limits and exceed your expectations, if you’re constantly opening rejection emails, perhaps you might want to consider applying for less senior positions.

Don’t use this last approach as a way of escaping the seemingly endless cycle of rejection.

If you’ve got the education and the experience, by all means, apply for the roles you think you deserve, but as we mentioned earlier, being honest with yourself and your capabilities will always go a long way.

At the end of the day, job search rejection is simply a part of the process, just like sitting in the waiting room when you go to see a doctor.

Accepting it, learning from it, and using it to further boost your motivation is a proven method for ensuring your success later down the track.

Don’t give up, your dream role is waiting for you.

Effective Job Search Strategies

How to Land Your Dream Job in 2019

Posted on 19/01/201931/05/2020 by Alpha Resumes

19
Jan

Land your dream job, buy a house, travel the world…

It sounds easy but in reality, achieving those things can be a tough and grueling process.

You envision a life where you are financially secure, where you are free to spend ample time with your family and friends.

But most importantly, you envision a life where you are paid to do what you love.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2016 saw full time employees committing to roughly 40 hours of paid work in a single week. That’s over 2,000 hours in a single year.

You could probably think of a hundred other things to spend that amount of time on.

What are you interested in? What do you love doing? What are you passionate about?

If you could spend 2,000 hours doing something you really enjoyed, and get paid for it, would you do it?

Of course you would. It’s really a no brainer.

Discover how you can land your dream job in 2019, and finally attain the happiness you deserve.

WHAT IS YOUR DREAM JOB?

Landing your dream job can be quite a challenge, especially if you don’t even know what your dream job is.

There is such a vast variety of jobs, it’s good to broaden your horizons and see what is actually out there.

Have you ever heard of an ocularist, or an ethical hacker, or a cosmetologist?

Researching roles might just lead you to the dream job you’ve been looking for.

Check out this list of more than 500 jobs you can be hired for within Australia. It includes detailed descriptions on education, personal requirements and typical tasks.

EDUCATION

Let’s be logical for a second.

A customer service cashier isn’t likely to land a job at CSIRO tomorrow.

However, it is possible for a customer service cashier to land a job at CSIRO in the future.

Education is important, and often vital to your success. If you want to become a scientist, it is necessary to learn about formulae, the periodic table, compounds and atoms.

In most cases, on the job learning is simply not an option and many roles will have prerequisites before you can even be considered.

To become a real estate agent in Victoria for example, you need to undertake a real estate licensing program to gain the necessary qualifications.

With so many courses and education options available, how are you meant to know which is right for you?

Here are 3 simple steps you can take to ensure you’re making the right decisions.

Step One – Research your desired role to discover what employers expect from a successful candidate.
Step Two – Research courses and institutes and find a program which will give you the necessary qualifications to land your dream job.
Step Three – It’s good to have options. Weigh them up against each other, determine your study patterns and make sure your final decision will suit your lifestyle.

Isn’t education expensive?

It’s no secret that education can be expensive. That’s why, planning your funding is detrimental to your completion, and overall success.

Be sure to browse websites for any new scholarship opportunities, and even contact institutes directly to see what they can offer.

Also, don’t forget about the amazing opportunities short courses can provide. If the thought of enrolling in a university degree or tafe course gives you the irrits, this could just be your perfect solution.

Learning software navigation, business management, or even logo design and digital marketing are just one of the many options available to you.

Udemy and LinkedIn have emerged as reliable sources for terrific online courses at very low prices. Check them out below.

It’s also worth checking if there are government funded courses for the qualifications you want to attain.

Click these links to browse free courses available in Victoria.

EXPERIENCE

Another crucial factor employers will consider, is your experience.

Employers want to know if a potential employee will work effectively and efficiently.

One way to prove your worth is by gaining relevant experience within your chosen industry.

If you’ve worked in a restaurant for five years, it’s safe to assume you will have cash and food handling experience, plus some basic customer service skills.

Employers want to be able to make those same assumptions when hiring an engineer, a chef, or an architect.

Whatever your dream role might be, start thinking of ways you can obtain some experience your future employer will favour.

Be mindful of any apprenticeships or internships available for your specific profession. Although you’ll be getting paid a lower rate, the accumulated experience will be invaluable, and one day could mean the difference with an employer hiring you over someone else.

Work experience and volunteering are also great ways to get your foot in the door, and start getting your hands dirty… Figuratively speaking of course.

Check out this article on finding work experience and volunteering opportunities in Australia.

EXCEED EXPECTATIONS

While you’re out studying and getting experience, hundreds of other individuals with similar aspirations are doing the same thing.

Competition in the job market is fierce, and you need to stand out if you want to succeed.

Look at what you can do to rise up above the rest. What additional experience and education can you undertake to exceed expectations of potential employers?

For example, community service might be considered a favourable experience for a role as a nurse, and proven cash handling experience might be desired for an accounting role.

It’s important to set yourself apart from every other candidate you’re up against.

If you’ve gained more experience and education than your competitors, you can be sure that the odds are tipping in your favour.

LAND YOUR DREAM JOB

You’re finally ready to begin applying for jobs, but what else can you do to help ensure your success?

Here are a few really good tips to help give you a competitive boost.

Network within your chosen industry

Make connections within your chosen industry

Update your LinkedIn and other relevant social media handles

See a careers counsellor

Dress to impress

Read our article – Job Application Tips: 10 Ways to Improve Your Odds

An employer wants to believe a candidate will do well before they make their final decision. By gaining relevant experience and education, you are helping to affirm that belief.

Job hunting is always going to be a competitive playing field. Look at ways you can give yourself an edge and don’t be afraid to think out of the box.

In this day and age, the most committed, the most dedicated, and the most eager candidate will almost certainly land their dream job.

When you love what you do and you live what you love, I doubt you’ll ever feel like you’re at work again.

Happy hunting.