Quote: (03-14-2012 08:00 PM)peterthephoenix Wrote:
Any tips on how to make your CV or cover letter stand out/better?
Any stories on how you got a particular job?
Yes- understand what the prospective employer's (not yours) pain points and needs are. Do a little research into it. It WILL pay off. Position your CV and letter in a way that makes it OBVIOUS that you're the guy who can solve THEIR (not yours) problems.
I'm always shocked how people think the process is about THEM. It's not. No one gives a f--- about band and campus earth day leadership. It's about a company solving a problem. If you understand the problem and communicate successfully to them that you understand it, you're going to do well. Be like a great salesman- know their problems better than them. If you do this, generally only an inside job/premediated pick can screw you over.
I once got a gig that involved commuting to a tropical country 6-7 times a year by researching the situation, reading local papers, etc. When it came time to interview, I read articles they didn't (don't ever assume the employer has it all together), and they were shocked I knew as much as them. Obviously I got the job. I only researched hard because I didn't want to lose the opportunity for others to pay for me lounging around 5 star hotel pools (& no bosses within 2000 miles)... but now it's just how I do it. It works.
Also, if its a super huge company, make sure your s--- contains all the keywords necessary for the computer to file it into the right place. Mirror the posting announcement language somewhat. Good luck.