How To Get The Job You Really
Really Want - Getting Organised Tools of Organisation
If at all
possible, try to get some personalised stationery. It is relatively
cost effective to get even small quantities printed with your name,
address and telephone number. Shop around. The cost compared to
the perception by a potential employer makes this very worthwhile
"added extra" on your job search. It will make you stand out. If
you are unable to get printed stationery make sure that
all letters are at least typed, and professionally
produced via Word or some such WP program. The standard size for
paper in the U.K by the way is A4.
If your typing is not up to it, either hire someone,
or find a friend who can help. It is also handy to know where you
can get good quality photocopying – just in case. You may need to
reproduce pages of your passport or driving licence for example.
Incidentally
your CV should be on plain paper (just in case you were thinking of
getting it reproduced on the headed!).
Most applications will be delivered
online or via email these days. However, some companies will insist
on a hardcopy or postal application. So, it’s worthwhile making sure
you have a supply of envelopes. In addition, I would strongly
recommend buying a wad of stamps up front. There is nothing
more annoying than standing in a post office queue for half an hour
when you have a lot of urgent job applications to get in the post!
(And, don't they always close the kiosk position when you get to the
front of the queue?).
The next item is an optional extra, but
it is something I always do. Even the experts don't agree on this
one, but I think it's a good idea. A brief case. I always carry
one, and you never know when you might need it. In it? well, some
pens, some note paper (in case of need at the interview), spare
copies of your CV, the file for the particular job interview you are
attending (see later), your diary and of course......your lunch.
(Only kidding about the lunch).
That
brings me very nicely to the next item on the list. Files! Yep, as
mentioned earlier, you need a filing system. I cannot stress
this enough, an efficient filing system really is one of the keys
to success in your job search. You will need to get either one
of those collapsible file boxes or a small cabinet. Yes, do keep
files on your PC, but, call me old fashioned, but I think a paper
based file is easier to use in such circumstances.
Once this has been obtained open a file for every,
and I mean every job application you make. The
file should contain everything pertaining to that application. This
would include the following;-
-
Copy of the advert,
agency specification or job description depending on how you
received the vacancy information.
-
A card to note the names
of all decision makers you come into contact with, and
to record the content of any conversations that take
place. For example, if Mr Brown had a cold when you spoke to him
today, wouldn't it stand you in good stead to ask if his cold is
better when you speak to him this week? (Unless of course, he
sounds like he has the most virulent strain of bird 'flu going
when you call him!). Make a record of your conversations and
then use them to your advantage.
-
Any correspondence.
-
Any company information
you gather during the lifetime of your application
(company brochure, accounts etc). These can be used to good
effect as we'll see later.
-
Any other media generated
by that particular application.
If you follow this method, you will always be able to
tell exactly what stage any application is at! You will have
an in depth file on each application, and believe me, in this case
information is POWER!
Next Page -
Your Diary
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