What employers are looking for when recruiting

When applying for a job, try to put yourself in the position of the employers you want to work for; they have a vastly different perspective on the job search issue. For them, a vacancy can be something which is easily and regularly filled, or something that is causing them a real problem. Let’s take a look at some things to consider when applying for a job.

Use your connections

Most employers begin to fill vacancies by looking within their organisations. This sounds like a problem for a new graduate – how do you put yourself in the right position for the job you want? The answer is simple: someone you know might already be in there – talk to them. Make it clear that you are interested in working for the organisation, and make sure they realise that means putting forward your name and/or CV when the time comes.

If necessary, start with a temporary job

Aim for any job at the organisation you really want to work for – such as a temporary job, a project, consultancy etc. However, do be wary of accepting a job, which is vastly different to your ultimate career choice. First impressions are crucial, and it can be hard to discard a “temp” clerical image, if you are trying for a high-powered executive job.

Show employers evidence from your portfolio

Besides, employers like proof that you can do the job. What you should do is developing a portfolio of evidence. You may have graduated already with a portfolio of achievement of some kind. Or, you may be able to add to one or start one with examples of work you have created or been part of. Clearly, if you haven’t worked in this type of job before, you are looking for portfolio evidence from other parts of your life (university, college, school, leisure activities). Never take the portfolio to the interview to wave around unnecessarily. Nevertheless, most employers today use “behavioural” interviewing, i.e. they ask for evidence of successful behaviours related to the job for which you are applying. Offer to show them evidence from your portfolio.

Send a spotless CV

You should also keep in mind that most employers will give your CV very brief attention. We are talking about 8 seconds, particularly if you have sent it in relation to a job advertisement, as it will be part of a pile of CVs. The employer’s main job will first of all be to discard as many CVs as possible. Thus, there must be nothing on your CV which causes them to notice and discard.

Make sure that the required information is provided

Make sure that you complete every section in an application form. As above, little attention will be paid to application forms with incomplete sections. Application forms are used to ensure the required information is provided. If it isn’t, they are discarded instantly.

If you want to learn more about the mindset of your future employers, take a look at “Graduate employment: 333 tips of graduates seeking employment” written by Sue Greener, Tom Bourner and Asher Rospigliosi.

Download the free eBook ”Graduate Employment” right here