3 Top Questions to Ask Any Candidate at Their First Interview

When you are applying for a job, standing out against the competition is crucial. Employers will receive numerous applications for each role they advertise, so as well as understanding the role and the company, understanding what employers are looking for will significantly improve your chances of being called for an interview. Let’s take a look at some of the key things hiring managers are looking for when reviewing applications. A Well-Structured CV Your CV is the first impression an employer has of you, so it needs to be clear, concise, and tailored to the role you are interested in. Employers are looking for a professional layout that is easy to read, relevant work experience, key skills that tie in with the job description, your education and qualifications, and no spelling or grammatical errors. A CV that is too long, disorganised, or too generic may be overlooked. Always tailor your CV to each role by highlighting the relevant skills or experience you possess. A Well-Written Cover Letter Not all employers will require a cover letter alongside your CV, but when they do, it’s an excellent opportunity to showcase your personality, skillset, and enthusiasm for the role. A strong cover letter should address the hiring manager if possible, explain why you’re interested in the company and the role, highlight your relevant skills experience and demonstrate how you can add value to the business. Avoid simply turning your CV into a few paragraphs and use the opportunity to show how passionate you are about the job and what you can bring to the company. Attention to Detail Employers will favour applicants who have carefully read the job description and tailored their application to fit the role. Always follow instructions and stick to the requested format. Another important point to note is that your application is your first impression to potential employers and any spelling or grammar mistakes will make you appear careless or unprofessional. A well written and error-free application enhances readability and clarity, helping you to stand out for the right reasons. Before submitting your application, always proofread, use spellcheck or ask someone to review it for you. Relevant Skills and Experience Hiring managers are looking for candidates who meet or closely match the requirements of the role, and whilst relevant work experience is important, transferable skills such as working well within a team, problem-solving, and good communication are highly valued. Use examples to highlight how you have demonstrated these skills in previous roles so the keywords you use aren’t hollow, empty, or just filling space on your application. Professionalism and Enthusiasm Employers will always prefer candidates who present themselves professionally and show a genuine interest in working for the company. Always be aware of your language throughout the entire process; from the first email, through your application and right up to interview, as professionalism plays a key role in securing the job. Implementing the points above will increase your chances of capturing an employer’s attention and, most importantly, securing that interview. If you are looking for support in finding your next job, our team has over 35 years’ experience in matching job seekers to their perfect role and employers with their perfect candidate. Get in touch today to see how we can help and support you.