Interview and CV tips

Let’s assume you’ve got an interview, and truly want to blow the interviewer’s socks off with your appropriateness for the position.  Being ill prepared and having little knowledge of the company is the most common step in the wrong direction.
 
Research before an interview means you go into the meeting warmed up. Subtle pieces of information mentioned early enough gives the company the impression and reassurance that you have genuinely taken some interest in them, which is an indirect compliment.
 
Preparing for an interview within the creative industries is perhaps more precarious than preparing for a meeting with traditional white collar professions.  Design companies vary hugely according to the client base and beliefs of the directors.  It is for this reason that it is worth finding out about dress codes and level of formaility, we can usually advise you here.
 
Gearing yourself around specific, well thought out questions, shows intelligence and a consideration, which, if you are employed will be exercised on their behalf.  These kind of questions should revolve around the company’s operational approaches and relating it back to your potential role – or questions relating to the future ambitions of the directors for the business.  It’s really up to you,  but make the questions count and make them considered.
 
Knowing about a company’s market and potential competitors gives you an edge and being able to evaluate long term potential within a market or a niche and estimate the financial stability of a company.
 
Nearly all companies have web sites, therefore, much of the background infomation on a company can be easily sourced.  To go to the next stage of further research experience first hand on 3 of their projects.
 
Increasingly, employers are picking up on the nuances of body language so be very aware of the messages and tells you are sending out.  There is plenty of information on the net about this subject.
 
It is likely that if the position is within the creative or design field we will have knowledge of the culture that exists within the company and can help you establish a basic ‘mind’s eye’ impression.

Type your CV in a plain font which is easy to read
Keep your CV to two pages – three maximum
Use bullet points when listing your responsibilities and duties
Make sure your CV flows in chronological date order with your most recent job first.
Ensure you include all dates of schooling and education
Double check your CV for spelling and typing errors

Write long winded descriptions when detailing your previous experience
Leave unexplained gaps between employment – even if you were travelling
Put any graphics on your CV
Include any courses or certificates do not relate to your employment history Use the following basic layout as a guide to create a flowing CV.