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Job Readiness

Practical guidance to help you prepare for your job search and present yourself with confidence.

CV Tips

  • Keep it concise — Aim for 2 pages maximum
  • Tailor it — Adjust your CV for each role, highlighting relevant skills and experience
  • Use clear formatting — Simple fonts, consistent headings, and plenty of white space
  • Include key sections — Contact details, professional summary, work experience, education, and skills
  • Quantify achievements — Use numbers where possible (e.g., “managed a team of 5”, “increased sales by 20%”)
  • Proofread — Check for spelling and grammar errors. Ask someone to review it

Interview Preparation

Before the Interview

  • Research the company and the role
  • Prepare answers to common questions (e.g., “Tell me about yourself”, “Why do you want this role?”)
  • Prepare questions to ask the interviewer
  • Plan your outfit and travel route the day before

During the Interview

  • Arrive 10-15 minutes early
  • Make eye contact and greet everyone with a smile
  • Use the STAR method for behavioural questions (Situation, Task, Action, Result)
  • Be honest — it is okay to say you are learning or developing a skill

After the Interview

  • Send a thank-you email within 24 hours
  • Reflect on what went well and what you could improve

LinkedIn Optimisation

  • Professional photo — Use a clear, friendly headshot
  • Compelling headline — Go beyond your job title (e.g., “Aspiring Data Analyst | Career Changer | Passionate About Technology”)
  • Summary section — Write 3-5 sentences about who you are, what you are looking for, and what you bring
  • Skills and endorsements — Add relevant skills and ask connections to endorse them
  • Activity — Engage with posts, share articles, and connect with people in your industry

Cover Letters

  • Address it to a specific person where possible
  • Open with why you are interested in the role
  • Highlight 2-3 key skills or experiences that match the job description
  • Keep it under one page
  • End with a clear call to action (e.g., “I would welcome the opportunity to discuss this role further”)

Upskilling Resources

ResourceDescriptionLink
LinkedIn LearningVideo courses on professional skillslinkedin.com/learning
CourseraOnline courses from universities and companiescoursera.org
Google Digital GarageFree digital skills traininggrow.google
Skills.org.nzNew Zealand-focused career and skills resourcesskills.org.nz