Moir Recruitment News

Last month, we had the privilege to host Peta Bayman, Director Facilitating Results Pty Ltd, presenting on "Working With Unconscious Bias''. Peta talked about the diversity of a workforce and how we all have an “Unconscious Bias” towards many things in life whether it be at home, socially and/ or at work. Although we all may look at the same picture, how we interpret it is completely different and this taps into our unconscious thoughts, assumptions and opinions.

Incorrect assumptions can extend to groups resulting in:

• Prejudice
• Stereotyping
• Discrimination

This can been seen in the workplace upon our choices of hiring staff and can lead to a team of people all with the same background, appearance and views.

The question is "How can we change this?"

• Awareness – I am biased, its OK
• Questions – ask different ones – think about what assumptions I have made
• Perspective taking – how does this look from another, different set of shoes?
• Systems – start seeing the whole system, seeing the interconnections of things

It is human nature to like people like ourselves and seek opinions from those that we know have the same opinion as us. However, diversity creates opportunity and leads to change and a world or workforce of inclusion.

What is networking?

Networking is the most effective means of accessing the hidden job market. Did you know that 70% of today’s jobs are gained through networking and using your own contacts. Networking is about building relationships, sharing information and finding sources of support, and is an ongoing life skill, not just something you do when you want something. Your best advocates are people who know you, worked with you previously and who can refer you on to new contacts.

Benefits of Networking

The more people you know, the more people you can influence. Always remember your connections will also have connections, giving you an even wider network. You never know who people might know - this is very important! Exchanging information allows new insights you may not have thought of. Expanding your contacts can open doors to new opportunities. Engaging with your contacts, means you sow the seeds for reciprocal assistance when you need help. The most successful people share information. Offer to help others out, people remember this and people will return the favour. Use the principle of 'what goes around comes around'. Ask people: "How can I help you?" and "What can I do for you?" Doing this also lifts your self-esteem and puts you into a more positive mind set.

How to build the best network 

Start with people you trust and respect that have similar values to you. This may be current work colleagues, ex-work colleagues, close friends, University friends, family friends, contacts through sports clubs, contacts through your kids schools etc. Approach them for advice, in general most people will be happy to help. Ask your current contacts for referrals, this is an easy way to build your network. Offer to help people, as what you give out will come back. Keep all your contacts on Linkedin then you will never lose their details.

Always let your network know that you are looking for a job. Spread your “feelers” as far as possible and always thank people for their help. You can also ask friends or contacts to refer you into their current employer or ask them for a contact you can approach directly. Be aware that many companies have a monetary referral bonus they pay to internal staff.

It’s all about quality not necessarily quantity. Some of the best-connected entrepreneurs don’t have the biggest networks or the highest number of connections on LinkedIn. Instead, they might work with a smaller, tightly knit groups of connections.

Before you approach people for advice the number one thing is knowing what you want, it is much easier for people to assist you if you know what you want. Always be positive and grateful, thank people for their help and aim to help them in return in some way. If you are unemployed then treat this as a full time job. If you are employed then dedicate at least an hour a day to building your network.

Networking is not always a natural thing to do for many people, but it will help you and is definitely worth making the effort to do consistently.

Congratulations ! 

Your well written resume has helped you secure a job interview. How you perform at the job interview is crucial, and will ultimately decide if you are successful in securing a job offer. To increase your chances of success, ensure that you are well prepared. 

Importance of Research and Planning

This is one of the most important areas of the job interview. Even if you have been told it is just an “informal” meeting, turning up unprepared can completely jeopardise your chances of any job opportunities within the organisation. Therefore, prior to your interview, ensure you do your research.

1. The Company

You may know who the company is, but it is up to you to ensure you have a detailed overview of the company structure, values and vision and market positioning.

Be sure you know what the company does, and its range of products or services.

Check out their website, and also do some Google searches so you have up to the minute information

2. The Industry

Look for any industry-specific news. Who are their main competitors?

What are their competitors doing and how do they rank compared to their competitors? What industry trends are happening in overseas markets?

3.  The Position

Thoroughly read the job description.

Ensure you know your own resume very well and how it relates to the job description. As you read through the key competencies of the job description, think of some examples where you can demonstrate previous experience that reflects these competencies.

4.  The Interviewer

Research the person who will interview you and look at their LinkedIn profile. Find out if there is anything you have in common, for example, you both worked at the same company in the past or you both went to university at the same time.

Practical preparation

It is common sense, but always ensure you know where you are going and where the company is located. Can you park, or is it best to get public transport?

Aim to arrive approximately 10 minutes early for the interview. Any earlier than this and it’s best to go and get a coffee before you turn up at reception. Ensure you have the contact details, including direct telephone number, of the person you are meeting.

Smart presentation is also of the utmost importance. If in doubt, err on the side of conservatism.

Asking Questions

Towards the end of the interview you will usually be asked if you have any questions. Aim to ask some open questions, thinking about how you can add value to the organisation.

At first interview, always avoid any questions about salary. These can be asked later in the process.

Some questions you could ask include:

• What are the key goals and objectives for the role in first 3 to 6 months?
• Why is the role available?
• Where would you see this role in 3 to 5 years?
• How would you describe the company/team culture?
• What makes a person a success at the company?

Final Tips

Think about your interview as an exciting next step. Be positive, have a firm handshake, make good eye contact, smile and believe in yourself.

And finally - good luck!

For further information on interview preparation you can contact your Moir Group consultant or our Head of Learning, Angela Farmeary on angelafarmeary@moirgroup.com.au or tel 02 9262 4836

A winning résumé follows a very simple but effective outline. It should be clear and highlight you, your strengths, current work place and work place achievements. Your résumé may be the document that helps you to progress your career within your current organisation or it may be required to introduce you to a new organisation and career path. Ultimately it becomes the document that sells you, so it is very important that your résumé is a winning résumé!

How long should my résumé be?

Depending on the length of your career it should be between 2 and 4 pages. This includes 3 – 4 key strengths on the front sheet, backed up by tangible achievements.

Is there a particular look for current résumés?

It is important to choose a font style that is easy to read. Calibri or Arial are good choices. Try to avoid using Times New Roman. Ensure as much white space as possible so your résumé is easy to read. Highlight company names and clearly label the years or timeframes you have worked. Make it easy to digest, don’t ask people to read between the lines.

Responsibilities vs Achievements

A good résumé needs both, but should be heavily weighted to tangible achievements, as this showcases your own specific skills and abilities. Examples include ‘Reduced reporting time from 5 to 2 days’ or ‘Undertook specific initiative which saved company $2m’.

Cultural Fit

Cultural fit is vital. Nothing replaces meeting your contacts and networks face to face. Your network should include 2 – 3 recruiters with whom you feel an empathy. Keep in touch with them through your career. They are an important part of your network. As your career develops, technical skills become a given. It is the cultural fit with the organisation and its values which becomes the key deciding factor in getting the job – which is right for the company and right for you.

Should I prepare a one page summary ? 

A one page summary can be an extremely valuable tool for informal situations and networking. Your one page summary should detail your achievements, your strengths and most importantly what you are looking for in your next role. 

Steps to find and win the right role

Identify the types of roles and organisations that interest you. Be frank with yourself and consider your own strengths and weaknesses. Play to your strengths and undertake specific training to address any important gaps. Prepare a career plan and remember – Stay positive and enthusiastic!