Career Advice

From searching for a job to presenting a major strategy at the office, positivity is key. 

• A person who is positive in their approach and attitude shows confidence and leaves a better impression everywhere they go
• Positivity can help reduce disappointment: if one job doesn’t come off, be positive about the next one being a better opportunity
• Show your positive side at interviews, in meetings and at company socials – you’ll be happier, well liked and more likely to succeed in your business and personal life

The foundation of any job application is a good CV. Here are 10 tips to create a resume that will get you noticed:

• Create a master CV that you can tailor to each position that you apply for
• Keep it to two pages maximum
• Don’t include your photograph
• Highlight your work experience and skills
• Focus on past achievements,  not just responsibilities
• Prioritise the most important information, such as your most recent role, your location and your qualifications

Just like any project in life, research is essential when you embark on a job search.  Arming yourself with the right information can help you make an informed decision, excel at interviews and set you up for success.

• Read up on the company you have applied to, by checking websites, news articles, and social media pages
• Research the leadership team and understand their vision, strategy and approach Join relevant industry groups to engage with people in the same sector with the same skill sets
• Familiarise yourself with the latest industry trends and developments

We have all heard the phrase ‘trust your intuition’ – and this can apply in the workplace. Here are some examples of how intuition plays a role in business.

• Use your your intuition when approached about a role or when you’re at an interview. If it feels right, take that leap of faith.  On the flip side, if something feels ‘off’, it probably is.
• Remember too that recruiters and HR teams will sometimes use intuition to assess whether a candidate is a good fit.
• At the office, use intuition to quickly prioritise tasks and allocate resources based on what you believe will significantly impact the organization.

Today’s digital world means greater opportunities, increased efficiency and more convenience. Unfortunately, it’s also created a platform for scams, including fake jobs. Remember these tips to avoid getting caught out.

• Scammers often advertise fake jobs online, or via text message or WhatsApp. There may be promises of great work-from-home opportunities and top salaries.  Don’t engage, and report or block the number
• Never send money or give out personal information, such as bank details, to someone claiming to be a recruiter

Make a lasting impression at your job interview with these simple but essential tips:

• Find out the company’s dress code and wear appropriate clothes to the interview
• If it’s face-to-face, arrive at least 15 minutes early
• Turn off your mobile phone
• If it’s a virtual interview, clear away any background clutter and find a quite spot where you won’t be disturbed

Your salary is of course a major element of any job.  But it’s not the only one.

• Know the pay level you are looking for, but also be flexible.  If it’s your dream job at your dream company, where there are great growth opportunities, it might be worth initially taking a slightly lower salary that you had hoped for
• Many firms offer trade off benefits like flexible working, bonus schemes, staff discounts and great medical cover
• As soon as your salary comes in, set aside what you need for essentials like housing, food, loan repayments or family support

Get on the path to success and achieve your career aspirations by following these guidelines:

• Use the SMART system to set your goals.  Make them Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound
• Consider your current time management habits and make adjustments if they are hindering your progress
• Ask to work on special projects and volunteer your support in times of a crisis or looming deadline – you will learn and develop your skills, and be more likely to be remembered when promotion time comes around