HOW TO SECURE A NEW ROLE DURING TURBULENT TIMES

CONTENTS3 HOW TO SECURE A NEW ROLE DURING TURBULENT TIMES

4 YOUR RESUME

6 MAKE YOU AND YOUR RESUME STAND OUT

7 YOUR COVER LETTER

8 YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA

9 YOU HAVE AN INTERVIEW

11 TIPS ON HOW TO PREPARE FOR A VIDEO INTERVIEW

12 BEHAVIOURAL INTERVIEW QUESTIONS USING lsquoSTARrsquo

13 THE STAR APPROACH

15 PREPARE YOUR ANSWERS IN ADVANCE

16 INTERVIEW TIME

17 HOW TO KEEP MOTIVATED DURING YOUR JOB SEARCH

18 CASUAL EMPLOYMENT

2Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

CONTENTS3 HOW TO SECURE A NEW ROLE DURING TURBULENT TIMES

4 YOUR RESUME

6 MAKE YOU AND YOUR RESUME STAND OUT

7 YOUR COVER LETTER

8 YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA

9 YOU HAVE AN INTERVIEW

11 TIPS ON HOW TO PREPARE FOR A VIDEO INTERVIEW

12 BEHAVIOURAL INTERVIEW QUESTIONS USING lsquoSTARrsquo

13 THE STAR APPROACH

15 PREPARE YOUR ANSWERS IN ADVANCE

16 INTERVIEW TIME

17 HOW TO KEEP MOTIVATED DURING YOUR JOB SEARCH

18 CASUAL EMPLOYMENT

2Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

HOW TO SECURE A NEW ROLE DURING TURBULENT TIMES OUR WORKING LIFE IS CHANGING DAY BY DAY POSITIONS THAT WE HAVE TODAY MAY NO LONGER BE REQUIRED IN THE SHORT TERM

The question facing many in todayrsquos working world is how you can change quickly to secure

a position in the current Australian employment market The positions available may be in

industries that you have not worked in or roles you may not have previously considered

Our aim is to help guide and position you with the information for you to adapt to a new and

unchartered employment market

3Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

YOUR RESUME

Your resume is the first impression that an employer will have of you and itrsquos often the deciding

factor in whether you get invited for an interview or rejected on the spot Thatrsquos why itrsquos crucial that

you take the time to prepare and tailor your resume for each role you are applying for in todayrsquos

market You canrsquot control the employerrsquos decision to hire you but you can control your resume and

how it portrays you as a strong candidate

TAILOR YOUR RESUME

When yoursquore applying for multiple jobs it may seem like a daunting task to tailor your resume for

each job but it will pay off in the end Sending out a generic resume will make it look like yoursquore

just applying blindly for every job yoursquore remotely qualified for and thatrsquos a sure-fire way to limit

your chances of being hired To tailor your resume for the job yoursquore applying for start by reading

and understanding the job description Which requirements stand out the most Is anything

mentioned repeatedly Does anything seem unusual about the job What duties are directly

related to your experience and skills Once you have a better understanding of the job and what

the employer is looking for re-organise your resume so that the most relevant experience is at

the top Whether itrsquos your first job out of school or a certification yoursquove earned make sure you list

it first Therersquos no rule that says your resume must be in chronological order You want the hiring

manager to notice your relevant experience right way when they pick up your resume

Next look at the bullet points for each of your prior roles How can they be revamped to better

align with the requirements of the role you are applying for right now For example you may

tailor your bullets to emphasise your customer service skills or flexibility to align with the

organisationrsquos customer demands

HIGHLIGHT YOUR TRANSFERRABLE SKILLS

Transferable skills are qualities that can be transferred from one role to another and across

industries Use your transferable skills to present your experience is so valuable when applying

for a new job ndash especially if itrsquos in a different industry Good customer service skills are widely

well regarded across all industries so make sure you highlight these along with other

transferrable skills such as being a team player your ability to meet deadlines adaptability

and leadership skills

4Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

5Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

HOW TO MAKE YOU AND YOUR RESUME STANDOUT

With hundreds and in some cases thousands of people now applying for roles it is

important to ensure your resume stands out from the other applicants and that you get

noticed by employers Below are some more helpful tips to building a resume that will get

you noticed

KEEP IT CONCISE

Hiring managers donrsquot need your life story - they have received numerous resumes and

job applications on a regular basis so they only want to see the most relevant information

about you

One of the most important things to look for on a resume is your target-driven

accomplishments key achievements and numbers that demonstrate your efforts and hard

work Take the time to make sure these stand out on your resume

YOUR SKILLS ARE KEY

Chances are you have more tangible skills than you may realise Draw from past

experiences and environments and think about how those moments are aligned to the

current role you are applying for What skills (both technical and soft skills) do you have

that can be transferred to the role Soft skills such as collaboration problem solving and

creativity can be highlighted as well as the technical skills you have gained in the past that

are required for the role

REVIEW AND LIST YOUR SKILLS CAREFULLY

Showcase your most relevant work experience It may be worthwhile including part-time

or casual roles you have held that are aligned to the current opportunity available

It is also important to focus on crucial skill-building moments in your experience thus far

Listing five of these is great but ensure you tailored your resume to each role that you apply for

6Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

IF REQUIRED ndash WRITE A COVERING LETTER

A cover letter is a single-page letter that introduces you highlights your relevant experiences and skills

clearly displays your interest in a specific job and provides you with a chance to thank your future

interviewer Use your cover letter as your initial opportunity to impress a hiring manager Provide insights

into who you are as an employee and really dive into the unique skills that you can bring

7Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

YOUR RESUME

Your resume is the first impression that an employer will have of you and itrsquos often the deciding

factor in whether you get invited for an interview or rejected on the spot Thatrsquos why itrsquos crucial that

you take the time to prepare and tailor your resume for each role you are applying for in todayrsquos

market You canrsquot control the employerrsquos decision to hire you but you can control your resume and

how it portrays you as a strong candidate

TAILOR YOUR RESUME

When yoursquore applying for multiple jobs it may seem like a daunting task to tailor your resume for

each job but it will pay off in the end Sending out a generic resume will make it look like yoursquore

just applying blindly for every job yoursquore remotely qualified for and thatrsquos a sure-fire way to limit

your chances of being hired To tailor your resume for the job yoursquore applying for start by reading

and understanding the job description Which requirements stand out the most Is anything

mentioned repeatedly Does anything seem unusual about the job What duties are directly

related to your experience and skills Once you have a better understanding of the job and what

the employer is looking for re-organise your resume so that the most relevant experience is at

the top Whether itrsquos your first job out of school or a certification yoursquove earned make sure you list

it first Therersquos no rule that says your resume must be in chronological order You want the hiring

manager to notice your relevant experience right way when they pick up your resume

Next look at the bullet points for each of your prior roles How can they be revamped to better

align with the requirements of the role you are applying for right now For example you may

tailor your bullets to emphasise your customer service skills or flexibility to align with the

organisationrsquos customer demands

HIGHLIGHT YOUR TRANSFERRABLE SKILLS

Transferable skills are qualities that can be transferred from one role to another and across

industries Use your transferable skills to present your experience is so valuable when applying

for a new job ndash especially if itrsquos in a different industry Good customer service skills are widely

well regarded across all industries so make sure you highlight these along with other

transferrable skills such as being a team player your ability to meet deadlines adaptability

and leadership skills

4Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

5Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

HOW TO MAKE YOU AND YOUR RESUME STANDOUT

With hundreds and in some cases thousands of people now applying for roles it is

important to ensure your resume stands out from the other applicants and that you get

noticed by employers Below are some more helpful tips to building a resume that will get

you noticed

KEEP IT CONCISE

Hiring managers donrsquot need your life story - they have received numerous resumes and

job applications on a regular basis so they only want to see the most relevant information

about you

One of the most important things to look for on a resume is your target-driven

accomplishments key achievements and numbers that demonstrate your efforts and hard

work Take the time to make sure these stand out on your resume

YOUR SKILLS ARE KEY

Chances are you have more tangible skills than you may realise Draw from past

experiences and environments and think about how those moments are aligned to the

current role you are applying for What skills (both technical and soft skills) do you have

that can be transferred to the role Soft skills such as collaboration problem solving and

creativity can be highlighted as well as the technical skills you have gained in the past that

are required for the role

REVIEW AND LIST YOUR SKILLS CAREFULLY

Showcase your most relevant work experience It may be worthwhile including part-time

or casual roles you have held that are aligned to the current opportunity available

It is also important to focus on crucial skill-building moments in your experience thus far

Listing five of these is great but ensure you tailored your resume to each role that you apply for

6Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

IF REQUIRED ndash WRITE A COVERING LETTER

A cover letter is a single-page letter that introduces you highlights your relevant experiences and skills

clearly displays your interest in a specific job and provides you with a chance to thank your future

interviewer Use your cover letter as your initial opportunity to impress a hiring manager Provide insights

into who you are as an employee and really dive into the unique skills that you can bring

7Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

5Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

HOW TO MAKE YOU AND YOUR RESUME STANDOUT

With hundreds and in some cases thousands of people now applying for roles it is

important to ensure your resume stands out from the other applicants and that you get

noticed by employers Below are some more helpful tips to building a resume that will get

you noticed

KEEP IT CONCISE

Hiring managers donrsquot need your life story - they have received numerous resumes and

job applications on a regular basis so they only want to see the most relevant information

about you

One of the most important things to look for on a resume is your target-driven

accomplishments key achievements and numbers that demonstrate your efforts and hard

work Take the time to make sure these stand out on your resume

YOUR SKILLS ARE KEY

Chances are you have more tangible skills than you may realise Draw from past

experiences and environments and think about how those moments are aligned to the

current role you are applying for What skills (both technical and soft skills) do you have

that can be transferred to the role Soft skills such as collaboration problem solving and

creativity can be highlighted as well as the technical skills you have gained in the past that

are required for the role

REVIEW AND LIST YOUR SKILLS CAREFULLY

Showcase your most relevant work experience It may be worthwhile including part-time

or casual roles you have held that are aligned to the current opportunity available

It is also important to focus on crucial skill-building moments in your experience thus far

Listing five of these is great but ensure you tailored your resume to each role that you apply for

6Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

IF REQUIRED ndash WRITE A COVERING LETTER

A cover letter is a single-page letter that introduces you highlights your relevant experiences and skills

clearly displays your interest in a specific job and provides you with a chance to thank your future

interviewer Use your cover letter as your initial opportunity to impress a hiring manager Provide insights

into who you are as an employee and really dive into the unique skills that you can bring

7Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

HOW TO MAKE YOU AND YOUR RESUME STANDOUT

With hundreds and in some cases thousands of people now applying for roles it is

important to ensure your resume stands out from the other applicants and that you get

noticed by employers Below are some more helpful tips to building a resume that will get

you noticed

KEEP IT CONCISE

Hiring managers donrsquot need your life story - they have received numerous resumes and

job applications on a regular basis so they only want to see the most relevant information

about you

One of the most important things to look for on a resume is your target-driven

accomplishments key achievements and numbers that demonstrate your efforts and hard

work Take the time to make sure these stand out on your resume

YOUR SKILLS ARE KEY

Chances are you have more tangible skills than you may realise Draw from past

experiences and environments and think about how those moments are aligned to the

current role you are applying for What skills (both technical and soft skills) do you have

that can be transferred to the role Soft skills such as collaboration problem solving and

creativity can be highlighted as well as the technical skills you have gained in the past that

are required for the role

REVIEW AND LIST YOUR SKILLS CAREFULLY

Showcase your most relevant work experience It may be worthwhile including part-time

or casual roles you have held that are aligned to the current opportunity available

It is also important to focus on crucial skill-building moments in your experience thus far

Listing five of these is great but ensure you tailored your resume to each role that you apply for

6Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

IF REQUIRED ndash WRITE A COVERING LETTER

A cover letter is a single-page letter that introduces you highlights your relevant experiences and skills

clearly displays your interest in a specific job and provides you with a chance to thank your future

interviewer Use your cover letter as your initial opportunity to impress a hiring manager Provide insights

into who you are as an employee and really dive into the unique skills that you can bring

7Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

IF REQUIRED ndash WRITE A COVERING LETTER

A cover letter is a single-page letter that introduces you highlights your relevant experiences and skills

clearly displays your interest in a specific job and provides you with a chance to thank your future

interviewer Use your cover letter as your initial opportunity to impress a hiring manager Provide insights

into who you are as an employee and really dive into the unique skills that you can bring

7Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

LEVERAGE LINKEDIN

Many hiring managers will look online to get an understanding of you before they meet you

Ensure your LinkedIn profile is up to date and that your work history is current and that your

profile headline and summary are adjusted for the type of work yoursquore looking for

Itrsquos also important to choose a professional photo for your profile a clear headshot with a

simple background is usually a good start

CLEAN UP YOUR SOCIAL MEDIAWHAT DO YOU FIND WHEN YOU GOOGLE YOUR FIRST AND LAST NAME

Many employers now use social networks to screen the professionalism of a candidate

and many searches to discover their qualifications or determine if theyrsquore a fit for the

culture Some employers may eliminate an applicant from consideration based on their

online reputation and social media activity Overall itrsquos vital to ensure that your resume and

online presence stands out for all the right reasons

This means going above and beyond to make a strong first impression by thoroughly

researching the organisation you are applying to first and adapting your approach

accordingly

8Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

CONGRATULATIONS YOU HAVE AN INTERVIEW

There is a right way and a wrong way to conduct yourself during an interview Be enthusiastic about

the position organisation and yourself An interview isnrsquot a one-way street so be sure to ask informed

questions - it shows that yoursquore interested

Job interviews can be stressful especially if you are low in confidence right now Ensure that you are

always well prepared the more you research and prepare the easier the meeting will go

bull Be prepared to talk about your achievements and accomplishments It is

a different employment market now so try to be comfortable talking about

yourself Talk about instances where your former employer gave you more

responsibility or trust

bull Reliability and commitment are important Ask about their specific challenges

and tell them how your experience prepares you to address them Donrsquot forget

to counter your weaknesses with your strengths If you are asked to identify

your weaknesses know them going into the interview but always counter with

a solution and what you are doing to overcome them

bull Ensure you are positive about your previous role If you were let go be honest

and emphasise what you learned from the experience Avoid talking about

feelings and stick to the facts

9Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

1 Confidence For many people they can be senior leaders professional speakers or communicator extraordinairersquos but when a camera is in front of them they freeze Interviews are generally a nerve-racking experience for many people but video interviews can be even more so As with all interview types it is important to relax take a deep breath and proceed without worry Be as prepared as you can be re-read your application and your resume and be ready with any questions you would like to ask You may even have a note pad in front of you with some notes ndash as this may settle your nerves

2 TECHNOLOGYCheck your technology If this is your first time doing a video interview then it is best to get a feel for the video program and the camera you are using Many people will use their phone or laptop which is great Perhaps jump online and do a test run with a friend to ensure that you are comfortable and that everything is in working order Ensure your computer is fully charged your phone is on do not disturb and check your internet speed to ensure there wonrsquot be an accidental loss of connection

3 LOOK THE PARTJust because it is a video interview doesnrsquot mean shouldnrsquot dress appropriately Ensure that you are well dressed and groomed just like a face to face interview Sit in a place that has great natural lighting so that it isnrsquot too dark and remove all distractions so you can be fully focused during the interview process

No matter what type of interview you are involved in nerves do arise But be confident in the fact that you have made it through the initial stages of the recruitment process and you have what it takes to get the job

Be yourself get ready with some great questions and good luck

THREE TIPS ON HOW TO PREPARE FOR A VIDEO INTERVIEWIn our current environment of social distancing more businesses are moving to video interviews Also due

to having a high number of applicantrsquos employers need to implement a few extra steps in order to review

everyone in a fair and time efficient manner You may also need to complete a video interview if you are

interviewing for a role where the hiring manager is overseas or interstate

Whatever the reason video interviews (like phone interviews) need to be approached with a slightly

different mindset Here are three tips to make sure you are ready and able to demonstrate you are the best

candidate for the role

11Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

HOW TO BEST ANSWER BEHAVIOURAL INTERVIEW QUESTIONS USING THE STAR APPROACH

When you are interviewing for a position the company wants to find out as much about you as they can

to ensure that you can do the job but also to ensure that you are the right fit for their organisation One

technique that is used during an interview is asking behavioural based questions ndash to find out how you

accomplish your work how you react in difference circumstances and how you navigate a difficult

situation

Behavioural questions are those such as

bull Describe a situation in which you had to deal with a challenging customer

How did you approach the situation and what was the outcome

bull Give me a specific example of a time when a co-worker criticised your work in

front of others How did you respond How has that event shaped the way you

communicate with others

bull Give me a specific example of a time when you presented your supervisor with a

new idea or process How did you approach this with your supervisor What was

the result

bull Describe a time when you put your needs aside to help a co-worker or classmate

understand a task How did you assist them What was the result

bull Describe two specific goals you set for yourself and how successful you were in

meeting them What factors led to your success in meeting your goals

12Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

SO HOW DO YOU PREPARE FOR THESE TYPES OF QUESTIONS

We recommend the STAR Approach

SITUATION OR TASK

Describe the situation that you were in or the task that you needed to

accomplish You must describe a specific event or situation and give

enough detail for the interviewer to understand This situation can be

from a previous job from a volunteer experience or any relevant event

ACTION YOU TOOK

Describe the action you took and be sure to keep the focus on you

Even if you are discussing a team solution or effort describe what you

did ndash not the efforts of the team

RESULTS YOU ACHIEVED

What happened How did the event end What did you accomplish

What did you learn

ST

A

R

13Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

PREPARING FOR THESE QUESTIONS USING THE STAR METHOD CAN BE DONE IN ADVANCE SO YOU ARE NOT CAUGHT OUT IN THE INTERVIEW

bull Identify six to eight examples from your experience where you demonstrated top behaviours

and skills that employers typically seek

bull Some of your examples should bey positive such as accomplishments or meeting goals

bull Others should be situations that started out negatively but either ended positively or where

you made the best of the outcome

bull Vary your examples Donrsquot take them all from just one area of your life

bull Use recent examples From the past 12 months or so

bull Try to describe examples in story form using the STAR technique

15Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

INTERVIEW TIME

Once you are in the interview listen carefully to each question and use an example

from those you practiced at home to provide an appropriate description of how you

demonstrated the desired behaviour With practice you can learn to tailor a relatively

small set of examples to respond to several different behavioural questions

During your interview ensure you

bull Listen carefully to each question If you are unsure rephrase the question

and ask for clarification

bull When you respond be sure to recall your past accomplishments in detail

bull Practice your behavioural stories using real-life examples It is very difficult to make

up behavioural stories which is why behavioural interviewing is becoming more popular

By practicing you will be able to recall with confidence your past accomplishments

In all interview situations be prepared remain composed and remember it is another slightly more

formal conversation

16Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

HOW TO KEEP MOTIVATED DURING YOUR JOB SEARCH

We understand these are unusual times and looking for a new job can be a long and labour-intensive

process full of highs and lows and days when you feel like giving up altogether Itrsquos important to keep your

motivation levels up but thatrsquos often easier said than done when yoursquore feeling a little knocked

back throughout your job search Here are our tried and tested tips for not losing your motivation

SET YOURSELF GOALS If yoursquore feeling overwhelmed try setting yourself a couple of manageable goals that can be easily ticked off each day Make sure these goals are specific and attainable For example you could set yourself the task of connecting with ten new relevant contacts every day through LinkedIn or submitting five new tailored applications each day

LOOK FOR INSPIRATION IN OTHERS No two career paths are the same yet reading though generic job specs can make you feel under-qualified or over-qualified But donrsquot let this make you feel like you are headed in the wrong direction Yoursquoll find most people have come up against setbacks along the way So when yoursquore finding it hard to stay motivated have a look at the journeys of those that you find most inspirational Speak to family friends or past colleagues it is important to say connected Chances are their paths were anything but easy

ASK FOR FEEDBACK It can be frustrating when you have an application rejected but you donrsquot know why If this has happened to you and you arenrsquot getting the feedback you need why not ask your friends mentors ex colleagues for their input Identify where you might be struggling in the process (CV interviews personal brand) and ask for some brutal honesty

17Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT

Current opportunities may require you to be employed as a casual employee Casual employees

are hired by employers to supplement their workforce where they may require work to be

performed on an intermittent short term and ad-hoc basis As a casual employee you are paid

under the relevant award applicable to the Industry for the hours worked Each Modern Award

states a minimum number of hours you can work per shift or each day As a casual employee

you will receive casual loading and it is important to remember that there is an absence of a firm

commitment to future work

GOOD LUCK

If you need assistance with tailoring your resume or need to brush up on your interviewing skills

contact our team today for a confidential appointment to discuss your career plans

18Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

1 Confidence For many people they can be senior leaders professional speakers or communicator extraordinairersquos but when a camera is in front of them they freeze Interviews are generally a nerve-racking experience for many people but video interviews can be even more so As with all interview types it is important to relax take a deep breath and proceed without worry Be as prepared as you can be re-read your application and your resume and be ready with any questions you would like to ask You may even have a note pad in front of you with some notes ndash as this may settle your nerves

2 TECHNOLOGYCheck your technology If this is your first time doing a video interview then it is best to get a feel for the video program and the camera you are using Many people will use their phone or laptop which is great Perhaps jump online and do a test run with a friend to ensure that you are comfortable and that everything is in working order Ensure your computer is fully charged your phone is on do not disturb and check your internet speed to ensure there wonrsquot be an accidental loss of connection

3 LOOK THE PARTJust because it is a video interview doesnrsquot mean shouldnrsquot dress appropriately Ensure that you are well dressed and groomed just like a face to face interview Sit in a place that has great natural lighting so that it isnrsquot too dark and remove all distractions so you can be fully focused during the interview process

No matter what type of interview you are involved in nerves do arise But be confident in the fact that you have made it through the initial stages of the recruitment process and you have what it takes to get the job

Be yourself get ready with some great questions and good luck

THREE TIPS ON HOW TO PREPARE FOR A VIDEO INTERVIEWIn our current environment of social distancing more businesses are moving to video interviews Also due

to having a high number of applicantrsquos employers need to implement a few extra steps in order to review

everyone in a fair and time efficient manner You may also need to complete a video interview if you are

interviewing for a role where the hiring manager is overseas or interstate

Whatever the reason video interviews (like phone interviews) need to be approached with a slightly

different mindset Here are three tips to make sure you are ready and able to demonstrate you are the best

candidate for the role

11Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

HOW TO BEST ANSWER BEHAVIOURAL INTERVIEW QUESTIONS USING THE STAR APPROACH

When you are interviewing for a position the company wants to find out as much about you as they can

to ensure that you can do the job but also to ensure that you are the right fit for their organisation One

technique that is used during an interview is asking behavioural based questions ndash to find out how you

accomplish your work how you react in difference circumstances and how you navigate a difficult

situation

Behavioural questions are those such as

bull Describe a situation in which you had to deal with a challenging customer

How did you approach the situation and what was the outcome

bull Give me a specific example of a time when a co-worker criticised your work in

front of others How did you respond How has that event shaped the way you

communicate with others

bull Give me a specific example of a time when you presented your supervisor with a

new idea or process How did you approach this with your supervisor What was

the result

bull Describe a time when you put your needs aside to help a co-worker or classmate

understand a task How did you assist them What was the result

bull Describe two specific goals you set for yourself and how successful you were in

meeting them What factors led to your success in meeting your goals

12Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

SO HOW DO YOU PREPARE FOR THESE TYPES OF QUESTIONS

We recommend the STAR Approach

SITUATION OR TASK

Describe the situation that you were in or the task that you needed to

accomplish You must describe a specific event or situation and give

enough detail for the interviewer to understand This situation can be

from a previous job from a volunteer experience or any relevant event

ACTION YOU TOOK

Describe the action you took and be sure to keep the focus on you

Even if you are discussing a team solution or effort describe what you

did ndash not the efforts of the team

RESULTS YOU ACHIEVED

What happened How did the event end What did you accomplish

What did you learn

ST

A

R

13Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

PREPARING FOR THESE QUESTIONS USING THE STAR METHOD CAN BE DONE IN ADVANCE SO YOU ARE NOT CAUGHT OUT IN THE INTERVIEW

bull Identify six to eight examples from your experience where you demonstrated top behaviours

and skills that employers typically seek

bull Some of your examples should bey positive such as accomplishments or meeting goals

bull Others should be situations that started out negatively but either ended positively or where

you made the best of the outcome

bull Vary your examples Donrsquot take them all from just one area of your life

bull Use recent examples From the past 12 months or so

bull Try to describe examples in story form using the STAR technique

15Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

INTERVIEW TIME

Once you are in the interview listen carefully to each question and use an example

from those you practiced at home to provide an appropriate description of how you

demonstrated the desired behaviour With practice you can learn to tailor a relatively

small set of examples to respond to several different behavioural questions

During your interview ensure you

bull Listen carefully to each question If you are unsure rephrase the question

and ask for clarification

bull When you respond be sure to recall your past accomplishments in detail

bull Practice your behavioural stories using real-life examples It is very difficult to make

up behavioural stories which is why behavioural interviewing is becoming more popular

By practicing you will be able to recall with confidence your past accomplishments

In all interview situations be prepared remain composed and remember it is another slightly more

formal conversation

16Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

HOW TO KEEP MOTIVATED DURING YOUR JOB SEARCH

We understand these are unusual times and looking for a new job can be a long and labour-intensive

process full of highs and lows and days when you feel like giving up altogether Itrsquos important to keep your

motivation levels up but thatrsquos often easier said than done when yoursquore feeling a little knocked

back throughout your job search Here are our tried and tested tips for not losing your motivation

SET YOURSELF GOALS If yoursquore feeling overwhelmed try setting yourself a couple of manageable goals that can be easily ticked off each day Make sure these goals are specific and attainable For example you could set yourself the task of connecting with ten new relevant contacts every day through LinkedIn or submitting five new tailored applications each day

LOOK FOR INSPIRATION IN OTHERS No two career paths are the same yet reading though generic job specs can make you feel under-qualified or over-qualified But donrsquot let this make you feel like you are headed in the wrong direction Yoursquoll find most people have come up against setbacks along the way So when yoursquore finding it hard to stay motivated have a look at the journeys of those that you find most inspirational Speak to family friends or past colleagues it is important to say connected Chances are their paths were anything but easy

ASK FOR FEEDBACK It can be frustrating when you have an application rejected but you donrsquot know why If this has happened to you and you arenrsquot getting the feedback you need why not ask your friends mentors ex colleagues for their input Identify where you might be struggling in the process (CV interviews personal brand) and ask for some brutal honesty

17Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT

Current opportunities may require you to be employed as a casual employee Casual employees

are hired by employers to supplement their workforce where they may require work to be

performed on an intermittent short term and ad-hoc basis As a casual employee you are paid

under the relevant award applicable to the Industry for the hours worked Each Modern Award

states a minimum number of hours you can work per shift or each day As a casual employee

you will receive casual loading and it is important to remember that there is an absence of a firm

commitment to future work

GOOD LUCK

If you need assistance with tailoring your resume or need to brush up on your interviewing skills

contact our team today for a confidential appointment to discuss your career plans

18Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

HOW TO BEST ANSWER BEHAVIOURAL INTERVIEW QUESTIONS USING THE STAR APPROACH

When you are interviewing for a position the company wants to find out as much about you as they can

to ensure that you can do the job but also to ensure that you are the right fit for their organisation One

technique that is used during an interview is asking behavioural based questions ndash to find out how you

accomplish your work how you react in difference circumstances and how you navigate a difficult

situation

Behavioural questions are those such as

bull Describe a situation in which you had to deal with a challenging customer

How did you approach the situation and what was the outcome

bull Give me a specific example of a time when a co-worker criticised your work in

front of others How did you respond How has that event shaped the way you

communicate with others

bull Give me a specific example of a time when you presented your supervisor with a

new idea or process How did you approach this with your supervisor What was

the result

bull Describe a time when you put your needs aside to help a co-worker or classmate

understand a task How did you assist them What was the result

bull Describe two specific goals you set for yourself and how successful you were in

meeting them What factors led to your success in meeting your goals

12Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

SO HOW DO YOU PREPARE FOR THESE TYPES OF QUESTIONS

We recommend the STAR Approach

SITUATION OR TASK

Describe the situation that you were in or the task that you needed to

accomplish You must describe a specific event or situation and give

enough detail for the interviewer to understand This situation can be

from a previous job from a volunteer experience or any relevant event

ACTION YOU TOOK

Describe the action you took and be sure to keep the focus on you

Even if you are discussing a team solution or effort describe what you

did ndash not the efforts of the team

RESULTS YOU ACHIEVED

What happened How did the event end What did you accomplish

What did you learn

ST

A

R

13Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

PREPARING FOR THESE QUESTIONS USING THE STAR METHOD CAN BE DONE IN ADVANCE SO YOU ARE NOT CAUGHT OUT IN THE INTERVIEW

bull Identify six to eight examples from your experience where you demonstrated top behaviours

and skills that employers typically seek

bull Some of your examples should bey positive such as accomplishments or meeting goals

bull Others should be situations that started out negatively but either ended positively or where

you made the best of the outcome

bull Vary your examples Donrsquot take them all from just one area of your life

bull Use recent examples From the past 12 months or so

bull Try to describe examples in story form using the STAR technique

15Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

INTERVIEW TIME

Once you are in the interview listen carefully to each question and use an example

from those you practiced at home to provide an appropriate description of how you

demonstrated the desired behaviour With practice you can learn to tailor a relatively

small set of examples to respond to several different behavioural questions

During your interview ensure you

bull Listen carefully to each question If you are unsure rephrase the question

and ask for clarification

bull When you respond be sure to recall your past accomplishments in detail

bull Practice your behavioural stories using real-life examples It is very difficult to make

up behavioural stories which is why behavioural interviewing is becoming more popular

By practicing you will be able to recall with confidence your past accomplishments

In all interview situations be prepared remain composed and remember it is another slightly more

formal conversation

16Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

HOW TO KEEP MOTIVATED DURING YOUR JOB SEARCH

We understand these are unusual times and looking for a new job can be a long and labour-intensive

process full of highs and lows and days when you feel like giving up altogether Itrsquos important to keep your

motivation levels up but thatrsquos often easier said than done when yoursquore feeling a little knocked

back throughout your job search Here are our tried and tested tips for not losing your motivation

SET YOURSELF GOALS If yoursquore feeling overwhelmed try setting yourself a couple of manageable goals that can be easily ticked off each day Make sure these goals are specific and attainable For example you could set yourself the task of connecting with ten new relevant contacts every day through LinkedIn or submitting five new tailored applications each day

LOOK FOR INSPIRATION IN OTHERS No two career paths are the same yet reading though generic job specs can make you feel under-qualified or over-qualified But donrsquot let this make you feel like you are headed in the wrong direction Yoursquoll find most people have come up against setbacks along the way So when yoursquore finding it hard to stay motivated have a look at the journeys of those that you find most inspirational Speak to family friends or past colleagues it is important to say connected Chances are their paths were anything but easy

ASK FOR FEEDBACK It can be frustrating when you have an application rejected but you donrsquot know why If this has happened to you and you arenrsquot getting the feedback you need why not ask your friends mentors ex colleagues for their input Identify where you might be struggling in the process (CV interviews personal brand) and ask for some brutal honesty

17Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT

Current opportunities may require you to be employed as a casual employee Casual employees

are hired by employers to supplement their workforce where they may require work to be

performed on an intermittent short term and ad-hoc basis As a casual employee you are paid

under the relevant award applicable to the Industry for the hours worked Each Modern Award

states a minimum number of hours you can work per shift or each day As a casual employee

you will receive casual loading and it is important to remember that there is an absence of a firm

commitment to future work

GOOD LUCK

If you need assistance with tailoring your resume or need to brush up on your interviewing skills

contact our team today for a confidential appointment to discuss your career plans

18Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

SO HOW DO YOU PREPARE FOR THESE TYPES OF QUESTIONS

We recommend the STAR Approach

SITUATION OR TASK

Describe the situation that you were in or the task that you needed to

accomplish You must describe a specific event or situation and give

enough detail for the interviewer to understand This situation can be

from a previous job from a volunteer experience or any relevant event

ACTION YOU TOOK

Describe the action you took and be sure to keep the focus on you

Even if you are discussing a team solution or effort describe what you

did ndash not the efforts of the team

RESULTS YOU ACHIEVED

What happened How did the event end What did you accomplish

What did you learn

ST

A

R

13Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

PREPARING FOR THESE QUESTIONS USING THE STAR METHOD CAN BE DONE IN ADVANCE SO YOU ARE NOT CAUGHT OUT IN THE INTERVIEW

bull Identify six to eight examples from your experience where you demonstrated top behaviours

and skills that employers typically seek

bull Some of your examples should bey positive such as accomplishments or meeting goals

bull Others should be situations that started out negatively but either ended positively or where

you made the best of the outcome

bull Vary your examples Donrsquot take them all from just one area of your life

bull Use recent examples From the past 12 months or so

bull Try to describe examples in story form using the STAR technique

15Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

INTERVIEW TIME

Once you are in the interview listen carefully to each question and use an example

from those you practiced at home to provide an appropriate description of how you

demonstrated the desired behaviour With practice you can learn to tailor a relatively

small set of examples to respond to several different behavioural questions

During your interview ensure you

bull Listen carefully to each question If you are unsure rephrase the question

and ask for clarification

bull When you respond be sure to recall your past accomplishments in detail

bull Practice your behavioural stories using real-life examples It is very difficult to make

up behavioural stories which is why behavioural interviewing is becoming more popular

By practicing you will be able to recall with confidence your past accomplishments

In all interview situations be prepared remain composed and remember it is another slightly more

formal conversation

16Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

HOW TO KEEP MOTIVATED DURING YOUR JOB SEARCH

We understand these are unusual times and looking for a new job can be a long and labour-intensive

process full of highs and lows and days when you feel like giving up altogether Itrsquos important to keep your

motivation levels up but thatrsquos often easier said than done when yoursquore feeling a little knocked

back throughout your job search Here are our tried and tested tips for not losing your motivation

SET YOURSELF GOALS If yoursquore feeling overwhelmed try setting yourself a couple of manageable goals that can be easily ticked off each day Make sure these goals are specific and attainable For example you could set yourself the task of connecting with ten new relevant contacts every day through LinkedIn or submitting five new tailored applications each day

LOOK FOR INSPIRATION IN OTHERS No two career paths are the same yet reading though generic job specs can make you feel under-qualified or over-qualified But donrsquot let this make you feel like you are headed in the wrong direction Yoursquoll find most people have come up against setbacks along the way So when yoursquore finding it hard to stay motivated have a look at the journeys of those that you find most inspirational Speak to family friends or past colleagues it is important to say connected Chances are their paths were anything but easy

ASK FOR FEEDBACK It can be frustrating when you have an application rejected but you donrsquot know why If this has happened to you and you arenrsquot getting the feedback you need why not ask your friends mentors ex colleagues for their input Identify where you might be struggling in the process (CV interviews personal brand) and ask for some brutal honesty

17Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT

Current opportunities may require you to be employed as a casual employee Casual employees

are hired by employers to supplement their workforce where they may require work to be

performed on an intermittent short term and ad-hoc basis As a casual employee you are paid

under the relevant award applicable to the Industry for the hours worked Each Modern Award

states a minimum number of hours you can work per shift or each day As a casual employee

you will receive casual loading and it is important to remember that there is an absence of a firm

commitment to future work

GOOD LUCK

If you need assistance with tailoring your resume or need to brush up on your interviewing skills

contact our team today for a confidential appointment to discuss your career plans

18Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

PREPARING FOR THESE QUESTIONS USING THE STAR METHOD CAN BE DONE IN ADVANCE SO YOU ARE NOT CAUGHT OUT IN THE INTERVIEW

bull Identify six to eight examples from your experience where you demonstrated top behaviours

and skills that employers typically seek

bull Some of your examples should bey positive such as accomplishments or meeting goals

bull Others should be situations that started out negatively but either ended positively or where

you made the best of the outcome

bull Vary your examples Donrsquot take them all from just one area of your life

bull Use recent examples From the past 12 months or so

bull Try to describe examples in story form using the STAR technique

15Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

INTERVIEW TIME

Once you are in the interview listen carefully to each question and use an example

from those you practiced at home to provide an appropriate description of how you

demonstrated the desired behaviour With practice you can learn to tailor a relatively

small set of examples to respond to several different behavioural questions

During your interview ensure you

bull Listen carefully to each question If you are unsure rephrase the question

and ask for clarification

bull When you respond be sure to recall your past accomplishments in detail

bull Practice your behavioural stories using real-life examples It is very difficult to make

up behavioural stories which is why behavioural interviewing is becoming more popular

By practicing you will be able to recall with confidence your past accomplishments

In all interview situations be prepared remain composed and remember it is another slightly more

formal conversation

16Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

HOW TO KEEP MOTIVATED DURING YOUR JOB SEARCH

We understand these are unusual times and looking for a new job can be a long and labour-intensive

process full of highs and lows and days when you feel like giving up altogether Itrsquos important to keep your

motivation levels up but thatrsquos often easier said than done when yoursquore feeling a little knocked

back throughout your job search Here are our tried and tested tips for not losing your motivation

SET YOURSELF GOALS If yoursquore feeling overwhelmed try setting yourself a couple of manageable goals that can be easily ticked off each day Make sure these goals are specific and attainable For example you could set yourself the task of connecting with ten new relevant contacts every day through LinkedIn or submitting five new tailored applications each day

LOOK FOR INSPIRATION IN OTHERS No two career paths are the same yet reading though generic job specs can make you feel under-qualified or over-qualified But donrsquot let this make you feel like you are headed in the wrong direction Yoursquoll find most people have come up against setbacks along the way So when yoursquore finding it hard to stay motivated have a look at the journeys of those that you find most inspirational Speak to family friends or past colleagues it is important to say connected Chances are their paths were anything but easy

ASK FOR FEEDBACK It can be frustrating when you have an application rejected but you donrsquot know why If this has happened to you and you arenrsquot getting the feedback you need why not ask your friends mentors ex colleagues for their input Identify where you might be struggling in the process (CV interviews personal brand) and ask for some brutal honesty

17Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT

Current opportunities may require you to be employed as a casual employee Casual employees

are hired by employers to supplement their workforce where they may require work to be

performed on an intermittent short term and ad-hoc basis As a casual employee you are paid

under the relevant award applicable to the Industry for the hours worked Each Modern Award

states a minimum number of hours you can work per shift or each day As a casual employee

you will receive casual loading and it is important to remember that there is an absence of a firm

commitment to future work

GOOD LUCK

If you need assistance with tailoring your resume or need to brush up on your interviewing skills

contact our team today for a confidential appointment to discuss your career plans

18Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

INTERVIEW TIME

Once you are in the interview listen carefully to each question and use an example

from those you practiced at home to provide an appropriate description of how you

demonstrated the desired behaviour With practice you can learn to tailor a relatively

small set of examples to respond to several different behavioural questions

During your interview ensure you

bull Listen carefully to each question If you are unsure rephrase the question

and ask for clarification

bull When you respond be sure to recall your past accomplishments in detail

bull Practice your behavioural stories using real-life examples It is very difficult to make

up behavioural stories which is why behavioural interviewing is becoming more popular

By practicing you will be able to recall with confidence your past accomplishments

In all interview situations be prepared remain composed and remember it is another slightly more

formal conversation

16Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

HOW TO KEEP MOTIVATED DURING YOUR JOB SEARCH

We understand these are unusual times and looking for a new job can be a long and labour-intensive

process full of highs and lows and days when you feel like giving up altogether Itrsquos important to keep your

motivation levels up but thatrsquos often easier said than done when yoursquore feeling a little knocked

back throughout your job search Here are our tried and tested tips for not losing your motivation

SET YOURSELF GOALS If yoursquore feeling overwhelmed try setting yourself a couple of manageable goals that can be easily ticked off each day Make sure these goals are specific and attainable For example you could set yourself the task of connecting with ten new relevant contacts every day through LinkedIn or submitting five new tailored applications each day

LOOK FOR INSPIRATION IN OTHERS No two career paths are the same yet reading though generic job specs can make you feel under-qualified or over-qualified But donrsquot let this make you feel like you are headed in the wrong direction Yoursquoll find most people have come up against setbacks along the way So when yoursquore finding it hard to stay motivated have a look at the journeys of those that you find most inspirational Speak to family friends or past colleagues it is important to say connected Chances are their paths were anything but easy

ASK FOR FEEDBACK It can be frustrating when you have an application rejected but you donrsquot know why If this has happened to you and you arenrsquot getting the feedback you need why not ask your friends mentors ex colleagues for their input Identify where you might be struggling in the process (CV interviews personal brand) and ask for some brutal honesty

17Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT

Current opportunities may require you to be employed as a casual employee Casual employees

are hired by employers to supplement their workforce where they may require work to be

performed on an intermittent short term and ad-hoc basis As a casual employee you are paid

under the relevant award applicable to the Industry for the hours worked Each Modern Award

states a minimum number of hours you can work per shift or each day As a casual employee

you will receive casual loading and it is important to remember that there is an absence of a firm

commitment to future work

GOOD LUCK

If you need assistance with tailoring your resume or need to brush up on your interviewing skills

contact our team today for a confidential appointment to discuss your career plans

18Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

HOW TO KEEP MOTIVATED DURING YOUR JOB SEARCH

We understand these are unusual times and looking for a new job can be a long and labour-intensive

process full of highs and lows and days when you feel like giving up altogether Itrsquos important to keep your

motivation levels up but thatrsquos often easier said than done when yoursquore feeling a little knocked

back throughout your job search Here are our tried and tested tips for not losing your motivation

SET YOURSELF GOALS If yoursquore feeling overwhelmed try setting yourself a couple of manageable goals that can be easily ticked off each day Make sure these goals are specific and attainable For example you could set yourself the task of connecting with ten new relevant contacts every day through LinkedIn or submitting five new tailored applications each day

LOOK FOR INSPIRATION IN OTHERS No two career paths are the same yet reading though generic job specs can make you feel under-qualified or over-qualified But donrsquot let this make you feel like you are headed in the wrong direction Yoursquoll find most people have come up against setbacks along the way So when yoursquore finding it hard to stay motivated have a look at the journeys of those that you find most inspirational Speak to family friends or past colleagues it is important to say connected Chances are their paths were anything but easy

ASK FOR FEEDBACK It can be frustrating when you have an application rejected but you donrsquot know why If this has happened to you and you arenrsquot getting the feedback you need why not ask your friends mentors ex colleagues for their input Identify where you might be struggling in the process (CV interviews personal brand) and ask for some brutal honesty

17Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT

Current opportunities may require you to be employed as a casual employee Casual employees

are hired by employers to supplement their workforce where they may require work to be

performed on an intermittent short term and ad-hoc basis As a casual employee you are paid

under the relevant award applicable to the Industry for the hours worked Each Modern Award

states a minimum number of hours you can work per shift or each day As a casual employee

you will receive casual loading and it is important to remember that there is an absence of a firm

commitment to future work

GOOD LUCK

If you need assistance with tailoring your resume or need to brush up on your interviewing skills

contact our team today for a confidential appointment to discuss your career plans

18Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

CASUAL EMPLOYMENT

Current opportunities may require you to be employed as a casual employee Casual employees

are hired by employers to supplement their workforce where they may require work to be

performed on an intermittent short term and ad-hoc basis As a casual employee you are paid

under the relevant award applicable to the Industry for the hours worked Each Modern Award

states a minimum number of hours you can work per shift or each day As a casual employee

you will receive casual loading and it is important to remember that there is an absence of a firm

commitment to future work

GOOD LUCK

If you need assistance with tailoring your resume or need to brush up on your interviewing skills

contact our team today for a confidential appointment to discuss your career plans

18Spring Professional - Securing a New Role In Turbulent Times

SydneyLevel 2 68 Pitt St

Sydney NSW 2000 (02) 9321 5500

infosydneyspringprofessionalcomau

MelbourneLevel 16 28 Freshwater Place

Southbank VIC 3006(03) 9620 2717

infospringprofessionalcomau