Thank you for choosing prs for to help you with your next career move.  We believe that to invest in our candidates is to invest in our own future.  Many of our past candidates are both friends and clients today.  These relationships are built on the time taken, in person, to help you find the right career move for you and our Recruitment Advisors are on hand to take you through each step of the process.

Advice and Tips

Choosing an Agency to help you

For many of us, the decision to change companies, jobs or careers can be an impulsive one.  And rather like another big decision - that of buying a house - we often spend very little time investigating and deciding on who will help us or where we will go.

However, the choice of the right Agency is hugely important as it must be someone with whom you can talk freely, trust to fully understand your priorities and, above all, feel confident that they will be committed to working on your behalf to identify a suitable position.   Make sure that you ask questions:

• What will they be doing for you?
• How will they submit your details and to whom?
• What feedback will you receive?
• Agree a communication timeframe
• How can you be sure that they understand what you really want and need?

Agencies should work within a professional framework and our governing body - Recruitment and Employment Confederation - ensures that there is an ethical Code of Conduct to which we all adhere.

Communication is the key.  Be aware that Agencies may not be able to update you daily - but should keep you informed regularly and demonstrate the work they are doing on your behalf.

The right Agency will ensure that you receive the right opportunities - so ensure you work together!

Interview Tips - why should they choose me?

1. Be on time!
Practice getting to the venue to see how long it will take. Public transport may be useless, the traffic may have been heavy, but however reasonable it won't affect the fact that your chances are reduced if you are late. Always remember - You never get a second chance to make a first impression.

Aim to be early - you can always find a nearby cafe/shop to wait in. And if worst comes to worst and you are going to be late, then definitely ring in and let them know.
2. Be Prepared!
Look at the employers' website and learn something about the company before you attend your interview. Feed them the opportunity to talk proudly about something positive you have found.

3. Write down and practice possible questions!
Writing them down and practicing them with someone will make it easier to remember when you get to the interview.  Avoid sounding as though you assume the job is yours. It is fine to ask about the package on offer and accommodation - living in and living out are particularly relevant. You could also try a fewer more testing questions such as how they differentiate themselves from their competitors or what they think the toughest/hardest part of the job is.

4. What are your weaknesses?
Don't 'um and ah'!  And don't deny that you have any!  Try to find an area of your experience/skill that is currently lacking. An interviewer will appreciate your candour - as long as whatever you disclose can be easily remedied.

5. You never get a second chance to make a first impression!
SMILE! Dress professionally in simple business attire. Even if the company gives an informal impression, don't assume this to be the case at first impression.  And don't forget that firm handshake and to maintain eye contact.

6. Be honest!
There really is no point lying about your background and/or skills. You will be caught and you can be sure you won't be around for long thereafter.  Job interviews are about matching needs - if there isn't a good match, then chances are that the job won't work out.

7. Check your CV for possible gaps!
Make sure you know how you are going to explain time gaps on your CV.

8. Talk about specific achievements!
Interviewers like to know how you felt about a particular success. Some will ask for specific examples of things you've done that you're particularly proud of; how you solved problems; how you learned - and improved - from difficult situations.

9. Don't talk too much!
Communication is a two-way thing so give them a chance to talk about their company and what they are really looking for.

10. Prepare a sample!
If you are able to demonstrate your skills - ie. a previous project, testimonials or graphic design - take it with you.

11. Take a spare photo & CV with you!
Your interviewer won't be expecting it so you will impress them. It also helps them remember you after the interview.

12. Be enthusiastic and positive!
Don't criticise previous employers, particularly within the industry. Focus on positive achievements and views.

 

13. Be on time!

 

And finally, Don't give up!
The fact is that you will not be offered every job however perfect you think you may be for it. However, feedback from interviews where you have been turned down can be invaluable for improving future results. Ask politely if they can give you any feedback for the future - the right job is out there for you!

Best of luck!!!