Job search

Finding a Role in Today's Market

Madison Recruitment is very aware of the challenges the current job market presents. Job hunting in a post-recession market means you need to invest extra energy and pay additional attention to the job searching process.

Research! Read relevant news and business commentary for companies that are hiring.

Network! Contact people you know for advice, industry information or potential job leads.

Up-skill! Use your time wisely and show a future employer that you place importance on increasing your skill base.

Make it count! With reduced opportunities available, it is imperative that every application you send is well thought out.

Be flexible! As the market changes so must your expectations. Be prepared to reconsider your ‘ideal job’ criteria.

Temp! Employers may be reluctant to hire permanently so temporary and contracting solutions may be seen as a more practical alternative.

Preparing Your Application

Your resume and cover letter is a vital component of your job search. It’s an opportunity to showcase yourself. These tips will assist you to prepare a cover letter and resume that clearly outlines your skills, competencies and experience - thus increasing your chances of success!

Cover Letter

• First, think about the skills, knowledge, and competencies that the prospective employer/job requires
• State which job you’re applying for and where you’ve seen it advertised
• Outline your objectives
• Demonstrate how your experience and skills matches the job
• Describe three to five qualities that you would bring to this employer
• Finish off with why you want to work for this organisation

Resume

• Create a layout that is designed to be read
• Use clear, legible font
• Clearly separate out the different elements of your CV
• Use bullet points for responsibilities and achievements rather than continuous text
• Keep it concise - depending on your experience, between two and four pages is ideal

• Contact Details – include address, contact numbers and email address
• Education - List relevant courses and education, including the establishment and dates
• Employment History – List your work experience from the most recent backwards. Include the company, your title, period of employment, responsibilities and key achievements
• Referees – nominate recent direct reports who have agreed to be your referee

• You do not have to include your family and marital status, date of birth, nationality or religion
• Always proof read for grammatical and spelling errors
• Don't leave anything such as unexplained periods of time
• Tailor your resume – for example, avoid using jargon and abbreviations if you are applying for a job in a different industry

Acing the Interview

Attending an interview can be a daunting experience, whether you’re at the start of your career or applying for the next step. The key to success is thorough preparation.

• Think about questions that could potentially be asked regarding your resume
• What key skills do they need to hear that outlines your ability to do the job?
• What specific examples from your previous roles illustrate your suitability?
• Do your research on the organisation
• Be prepared to explain why you are interested in the organisation and job
• Prepare a couple of questions for your interviewer – this shows your interest
• Know where to go, how to get there, how long it will take and where to park
• Be smartly and appropriately dressed

• Firm handshake
• Maintain eye contact and smile
• Show the interviewer that you are genuinely interested
• Don’t be overly familiar
• Actively listen to the questions (and allow the interviewer to finish before you start answering)
• Answer questions by using relevant examples
• Aim to be precise and talk with a confident manner

• A “thank you" email is a nice way of differentiating yourself and is the perfect opportunity to confirm your interest
• If you are working with a Madison Consultant please call and let them know how it went.