Preparing For Employment

Check out the Connexions website.

Once you see the job advert there will be several things you’ll need to do fairly quickly. With this in mind it's best to be as prepared as possible. The Job Club on the Prospect Street website will give you masses of ideas on what needs to be done. To give you an idea what to look for, below are a few pointers.

Filling in an Application Form

If possible, before you start make a photocopy of the form in case you make a mistake. Otherwise use a pencil and go over it with a black pen when you are sure it’s OK. It’s a good idea to ask a friend to read it to check for spelling mistakes.
Be sure to ask permission from the people you are using as referees.
Check the closing date and be sure to get the form in on time.
Keep a completed copy to read before the interview.

Writing a Cover Letter

A cover letter doesn’t have to be long or done on a computer but if you decide to write one use a blue or black pen and plain paper. Include the job reference and any other details from the advert or application form. Remember to check your spelling and once again keep a copy to read before the interview.

Putting Together a CV

During your life you need some important documents: you need a driving licence which gives some details about you, and you need a CV which gives a lot more.

Your CV will change throughout your life. The first one, composed when you leave school or college, will look very different from the CV of a 35-year-old. There is plenty of advice in the sites below on how to put together an effective CV that will grab the attention of possible employers.

If you’re 16-19 and have a Connexions Card you can log onto their website and use their CV builder to create your own CV. If you don’t have a Connexions Card you can still use the CV builder, but you will need to fill out a short registration form first.

For other CV building websites check out Handson or Alex.co.uk

Going For an Interview

Being offered a job interview is a great feeling until you start to think about the actual day. Try not to worry, it’s the same for everyone and there are masses of hints and tips available. A good summary leaflet can be found on the EClips website called Coping with interviews. There are other useful leaflets signposted at the bottom of the page so don’t forget to scroll down. Also if you aren’t able to print a copy yourself then visit your local Connexions Centre and ask for a printout.