CVs and interviews for the unemployed
Written by Administrator
Date: Thursday, 19 March 2009 11:18
The internet is flooded with information about writing CVs and how to prepare for and behave in job interviews. We've got some links here to the best of these resources. But having lost your job the way that you approach CV writing and job interviews should be slightly different.
Things you need to think about
It is likely that you lost your job as a result of the current economic conditions. If that is the case it's worth emphasising this background in your CV and covering letter. You should make sure that in no way can a potential employer interpret your job loss as being performance-related. See what people are writing on their CVs - read our forum.
In job interviews and salary negotiations you should beware that the balance of power has shifted in favour of the employer. In interviews that means that you may well be faced with a tougher style of interviewing. One of our bloggers, Katherine, talks about the new attitude of interviewers in the current environment - see her blog here. When it comes to money, employers know that you may not have many options and offer a lower salary than you might otherwise have hoped for. In our view it's important to stay confident and not to lose heart.
CV writing resources
GuardianJobs - CV clinic in which experts review the CVs submitted by the public
Monster - advice on writing CVs and covering letters
Reed - CV templates, advice and free CV review service
The Times - CV writing tips
Handsoncv - basic CV writing advice and services
We have heard mixed feedback about professional CV writing services. Have you tried one? See what our users say on the 'Professional CV writing services - have you tried one?' forum.
Interview resources
Jobsite - the 'be my interviewer' tool shows you videos of questions from business leaders including Duncan Bannatyne (Dragon's Den)
Reed - useful tools including an interview simulator (free) and personality profiler and online interview trainer (paid services)
Monster - provides some advice on interviews
BBC - potential interview pitfalls with examples from The Apprentice
See our forums for our users' 'Job interview tips' or for more fun 'Interview horror stories'.
