Careers - GUIDE TO APPRENTICESHIPS

Student Services

GUIDE TO APPRENTICESHIPS

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Contents

What is an Apprenticeship?............................................................................5 What levels are there?.............................................................................................................5 Duration.................................................................................................................................. 6 Entry Requirements................................................................................................................6 What can you earn?................................................................................................................6 Training................................................................................................................................... 7 Industries................................................................................................................................ 7 Applying. ................................................................................................................................ 7 Additional resources...............................................................................................................8 Curriculum Vitae (CV) . .................................................................................. 9 What is a CV for?....................................................................................................................9 Using AI Technology...............................................................................................................9 When would a CV be used?....................................................................................................9 Planning your CV....................................................................................................................9 Things to remember................................................................................................................10 What to put in each section....................................................................................................10 Example of CVs......................................................................................................................12 Top Five CV Pitfalls.................................................................................................................14 Covering letters..............................................................................................15 Covering letters checklist .......................................................................................................19 Job searches - where to look.........................................................................21 What type of work are you looking for?...................................................................................21 Where and how to find the job you want.................................................................................21 Useful websites.......................................................................................................................23 Application forms...........................................................................................25 Things to Remember..............................................................................................................25 Preparation............................................................................................................................. 25 Completing the Application Form ...........................................................................................26 Job interviews - how to be confident.............................................................31 How to prepare.......................................................................................................................31 What employers want.............................................................................................................31 Research the company...........................................................................................................32 What to wear..........................................................................................................................32 At the interview.......................................................................................................................32 Assessment centres...............................................................................................................36 Telephone interviews..............................................................................................................36 To summarise ….....................................................................................................................37 Disclosing disabilities, medical conditions or illness.....................................39 Application forms and medical questionnaires........................................................................40 Attending interviews................................................................................................................41 MOOCS........................................................................................................... 45 What you need to know..........................................................................................................45 Why you might consider a MOOC?.........................................................................................45 Why a MOOC may not be suitable for you..............................................................................45 MOOCS in the UK..................................................................................................................46 Who else offers MOOCS?.......................................................................................................46 The Use of AI in the Job Application Process................................................43

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GUIDE TO APPRENTICESHIPS

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What is an Apprenticeship? Apprenticeships are an opportunity for anyone over the age of 16 living in England to train and work at the same time. It allows individuals to gain recognised qualifications from Intermediate (Level 2) up to degree and Masters’ Level and at the same time receive real on-the-job experience. Every apprenticeship follows a National Standard, this is the content of learning both the theory and the practical elements which will come together to form your apprenticeship qualification. Each of the National Standards are designed with employers and relate to the required skills relating to the specific apprenticeship role you will be applying for. The National Standards are designed to incorporate both on and off the job training to ensure you gain the necessary skills and knowledge to work in that job role. For students completing A Level and Level 3 vocational qualifications, you may consider a higher or degree apprenticeship. With these apprenticeships, employers can offer you the opportunity to work towards Foundation degrees, NVQ’s and HND’s (Level 4), Bachelors (Level 6) and even Masters’ degree (Level 7) qualifications.

What levels are there?

NAME

LEVEL

EQUIVALENT EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

Intermediate

2

5 GCSE passes at grade A* - C or 9-4

2 A level passes/Level 3 Diploma/ International Baccalaureate Foundation degree and above Bachelor’s or master’s degree

Advanced

3

Higher Degree

4 & 5 6 & 7

All apprenticeships include elements of on the job and off the job training, leading to industry recognised standards or qualifications. Some apprenticeships also require an assessment at the end of the programme to assess the apprentice’s ability and competence in their job role.

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APPRENTICESHIPS EXPLAINED

Duration An apprenticeship can run from anything from one year to a possible five or six depending on the level of apprenticeship. Entry Requirements Entry requirements vary depending on your programme. Entry requirements for intermediate apprenticeships vary, with some employers asking for two or more GCSEs, although you may not need any formal qualifications. If you don’t have GCSEs in English and maths, you are usually required to take qualifications in these subjects as part of the apprenticeship. Degree and higher apprenticeships may require a specific amount of UCAS points or grades in certain subjects, for example you may need A-Levels in biology or chemistry to apply to be a laboratory technician or a BTEC in Engineering to apply for an Aerospace Engineer. Some sectors may also look at your prior work experience or achievements outside of your studies when selecting candidates. Changes to the minimum English and maths requirements now mean that people with a learning difficulty or disability can now access a level 2 intermediate apprenticeship as long as they can achieve an entry level 3 qualification during their apprenticeship. A Disability Confident Employer will generally offer an interview to any applicant that declares they have a disability and meets the minimum criteria as defined by the employer. For more details, search Disability Confident on GOV.UK What can you earn? The national minimum wage (NMW) for apprentices is £7-55 per hour from April 2025. The Apprentice NMW applies to apprentices aged under 19 or 19 and over and in the first year of your apprenticeship.

All apprentices are entitled to be paid the National Minimum Wage which currently stands at £7-55 per hour, this rate applies to apprentices aged 16-18, however students on higher and degree apprenticeships can earn as much as £300-£500 a week. Additionally, your employer and the government pay your tuition fees therefore you do not have to apply for a university loan. If you are in care or a care leaver there is an additional bursary available, please see the link for further information Apprenticeships care leavers’ bursary guidance - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

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Current rates These rates are for the National Living Wage (for those aged 21 and over) and the National Minimum Wage (for those of at least school leaving age). The rates change on 1 April every year.

21 AND OVER

YEAR

18 TO 20 UNDER 18 APPRENTICE

April 2025 (current Rate)

£12.21

£10.00

£7.55

£7.55

April 2026

£12.71

£10.85

£8.00

£8.00

(https://www.gov.uk/national-minimum-wage-rates) Source Accessed 07/25

Training Training can be delivered on a day-release basis in which you spend one or two days a week at a college or university, in-house or as a block release which could be from anything to a few weeks up to a year at a training provider. Industries Apprenticeships are available in a wide range of industries with employers from a large range of national companies including Rolls Royce, BAE Systems and PWC to smaller, local companies. Currently apprenticeships are available in over 170 industries covering 1,500 job roles. From accounting to agriculture, catering to criminal investigation, education to engineering there is a huge landscape of opportunities in areas to suit everyone with new subjects being developed all the time. Runshaw College currently provides apprenticeships in several areas including childcare, accountancy, and business administration. For more details, please visit https://www.runshaw.ac.uk/study-at runshaw/apprenticeships/. Use the government apprenticeship website www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship to search and apply for apprenticeships in your area. You can also register with the site to have the latest vacancies emailed to you. Apply directly to an employer. Companies such as BAE Systems have an area dedicated to apprenticeship applications on their website, therefore if you are interested in working for a particular employer, do some research on their recruitment process. The Careers Team in Student Services have details of companies who are known for employing apprentices, and also invite employers into college for talks and pop up stands. Please check the college monthly ASPIRE magazine which is emailed to you for updates each Thursday. Contact training providers. Every apprenticeship is delivered through a training provider. The training provider will liaise with the employers in order to deliver the apprenticeship teaching and learning content throughout the duration of the apprenticeship. Applying There are several ways of applying for an apprenticeship. These include:

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APPRENTICESHIPS EXPLAINED

There are many different apprenticeship training providers, as well as colleges and universities, there are many national and local apprenticeship only providers (i.e. they only specialise in apprenticeships, not A Levels or BTEC courses etc.). Colleges and universities may have industry links or partner employers with vacancies. Unifrog has a full section on apprenticeships, with lots of information and links to current apprenticeship vacancies. UCAS is not just for applying to university and is another source for apprenticeship information and vacancies. Please be aware that the application process may be lengthy depending on the programme and might consist of an online application, telephone and panel interviews, or aptitude/gamification tests. You can get assistance • https://www.runshaw.ac.uk/study-at-runshaw/apprenticeships/ • https://www.ucas.com/apprenticeships/apprenticeships-england • www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship • www.careermap.co.uk • www.notgoingtouni.co.uk • www.amazingapprenticeships.com - Apprenticeships webinars and films. In addition, a vacancy list is published twice a year (approx Oct and Feb) • https://nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk - Careers information • https://www.mmu.ac.uk/apprenticeships/ Additional resources

• https://www.uclan.ac.uk/degree-apprenticeships • Apprenticeships for students | University of Salford • https://www.gov.uk/national-minimum-wage-rates

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APPRENTICESHIPS EXPLAINED

Curriculum Vitae (CV) What is a CV for?

CV stands for Curriculum Vitae. Your CV is your chance to show an employer you are the right person for the job. It’s about selling your skills and experience and grabbing the employer’s attention. Your CV is quite simply an “advert” which can be used to promote yourself to prospective employers. An employer may receive hundreds of applications for one job and will only invite a few applicants to attend interviews; therefore, your CV must stand out and look professional. Using AI Technology AI could be used to generate a draft framework, however, please be advised many employers use software to identify any plagiarism, ensure this is all your own work. It is also advised that you don’t upload any personal information. When would a CV be used? You would normally send a CV to an employer when they request one in a job advert for a position you want to apply for, or when you are enquiring if any jobs are available (along with a covering letter). Planning your CV Your CV is there to demonstrate your suitability for the job. Your aim is to encourage the employer to want to find out more about you. Hopefully, this will then result in you being asked to attend the next stage of the selection process – the interview! A good CV will show that you have: • The specific skills needed for the job • The required qualifications • The right sort of experience • The necessary personal qualities It also needs to illustrate that you understand the particular requirements of the job. You need to ensure key words from the job description are captured on your CV.

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CREATE A BRILLIANT CV

Things to remember When planning your CV it is important to consider the following points: • Keep it short and precise (maximum 2 sides of A4)

• Keep it clear – ensure it is easy to read with clear section headings and a well organised layout. Aim to present the information in a logical easy to follow style, no smaller than font size 11, using Arial or Calibri • Ensure you have a good balance between white space and text • Always start with your most recent experiences, qualifications, education etc • If you have very little or no employment experience try and utilise the skills you have gained when completing projects, assignments, school work experience etc. • Runshaw College Careers Team 2025 • Highlight transferable skills such as communication skills, ability to work in a team, use own initiative etc • Make your CV lively. Remember it should seem like a living breathing person – you! What to put in each section Personal Details You should include your name, address and contact details (email and telephone number).

Personal Profile Your personal profile should summarise your key strengths such as: • Skills and qualities • Work background/experience • Career aims

It should only be a few lines and grab the reader’s attention. For example, if the job you are applying for will involve working with people, you could include: effective communicator and good team worker. Be brief as you can expand on your skills in later sections.

– 10 – Employment history and work experience IMPORTANT: If you have been working for a while, you should list your employment history first. If you don’t have much work experience, then start with your education section first. CREATE A BRILLIANT CV

In the employment section you should start with your most recent employment and work backwards. You should include the employer, the dates you worked there, job title and your main duties. Use bullet pointed lists. TIP: It’s a good idea to relate your skills and experience to the job you are applying for and what you think the employer is looking for. Also include any relevant volunteering experience and/or additional qualifications. This could include National Citizen Service (NCS), Duke of Edinburgh (D of E), First Aid training, coaching, refereeing qualifications etc. Try to avoid any unexplained gaps in your employment history. If you have taken time out for travelling, volunteering etc. include this along with details of what you’ve learned. Education Start with your most recent qualifications and work backwards. e.g. university, college, high school. Include: • The university, college or school you went to • The dates you achieved the qualifications and grades TIP: List these in an easy-to-read format. You could use a table if you want to. Interests and Achievements You can include hobbies, interests, and achievements, but only if relevant to the job. You can use links to any professional social media accounts you have to demonstrate your skills, such as Instagram, YouTube, Vlogs, Blogs, Pinterest, Twitter, Facebook etc. So long as it is relevant to the job you are applying for. TIP: Remember, hobbies and interests should be relevant and interesting.

Additional Information This should include anything else you may feel is relevant to your application, for example if you have a driving licence or can speak a foreign language.

References In this section put ‘References available on request’. Make sure you have two people (unrelated) who are willing to be your references, so when the employer asks for these you can supply them with confidence.

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CREATE A BRILLIANT CV

Example of CVs

TIP: If you don’t have a lot of work experience, try to make your college/university work relevant to the skills you would need for the job you are applying for. Examples of this may be time management, teamwork, research and IT skills. Please see next page for an example of a CV. For other types of CVs check out https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/

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CREATE A BRILLIANT CV

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CREATE A BRILLIANT CV

TIP: Separating the voluntary work from the paid work can help make the voluntary work more prominent. Although this role may not be relevant to the new area of work you are applying for, it highlights transferable skills and experience such as supervisory and management skills. Positions of responsibility such as sports captain may not be related to the job, but this does highlight leadership qualities.

Top Five CV Pitfalls

1. Typing errors, poor spelling and grammar. Not everyone’s perfect, but even if spelling and grammar are not one of your strong points this is not the place to show it! A mistake free CV gives shows that you are professional – first impressions count. 2. Not tailoring your CV to the job you are applying for. When applying for jobs it can be very tempting to apply for quantity rather than quality by sending the same CV to all employers. By doing this you could be missing an opportunity to sell your most relevant skills. Read the job advertisement and consider exactly what the employer is looking for – by matching and tailoring your CV, you are more likely to achieve your goal 3. Visually unappealing and difficult to read. In an effort to cram as much info into your CV you can make it look cluttered and difficult to read. Use bullet points, lists and short sentences to make it easier for the recruiter to scan for key points. 4. Too long or too short. Another delicate balancing act this one! Your CV should ideally be no more than two pages long. Don’t try to pad it out with irrelevant info.

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CREATE A BRILLIANT CV

Covering letters A covering letter introduces you to an employer and asks them to consider your application. It’s a short letter - three or four paragraphs - that you should send with your CV or application form. If you are sending your CV by email, include it in the body of your email but remember to keep it professional. You can draw attention to some of the key facts and comments from your CV and make out an overall ‘case’ for being a suitable candidate for the job you are applying for. Show that you understand what the employer is looking for by matching the words in their advert with your own skills and achievements. A covering letter should complement not duplicate your CV. As with your CV, you will need to tweak it for each job you apply for to ensure you target the specific company and job role. AI could be used to generate a draft framework, however, please be advised many employers use software to identify any plagiarism. Ensure this is all your own work. Employers who receive these letters are busy, so aim to be concise to encourage them to consider you fully. This means that you will need to: • Be brief • Use a formal style • Say what you mean. Use words that suggest decisiveness and energy • Use words that are appropriate and credible • Focus on a few good points, choosing those most relevant to the job • Always end on a positive note What to include • You need to state who you are and why you are applying • Introduce yourself in a few words which reflect your personality • Include where you found out about the job and any vacancy reference number • Highlight your achievements – match them to the job description • Create a positive image of yourself • Why you are suitable for the job and what you can bring to the role

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COVERING LETTERS

You need to capture the readers’ attention so mention early on • Why you are interested in the job • Your qualifications • Your experience • Any unique talents or skills you have that match the job requirements What do you need to know? • Research the role and the company by visiting the company website/social media • What they do. Is it the same as you are used to doing or are there differences? • What’s happening in your chosen field of work? • What’s changed in that field recently? • What’s new, what’s coming up in the future? • Who the companies are that do your type of work or need it done for them • Read social media/newspaper articles/blogs to keep informed and refer to

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COVERING LETTERS

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COVERING LETTERS

Example phrases I would like to apply for the position of ………………….as advertised in….. I have a part time job working as a Sales Assistant which demonstrates excellent customer skills…… I have worked flexibly doing both early and late shifts and covering for absence, sometimes at short notice. As can be seen from my attached CV, I will shortly complete a BTEC level 3 Extended Diploma in Engineering. I believe that this post will give me the opportunity to utilise the CAD skills that I have gained during the course. I look forward to hearing from you and could be available for interview at any time convenient to you. I would be glad to supply any further information required and hope to hear from you soon.

Example Opening phrases I am writing to… I am currently… I am confident… In addition to… I am very keen…

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COVERING LETTERS

Covering letters checklist

Covering letters need careful planning – so check the following:

Keep your letter to one side of good quality, A4, plain, white paper and use black ink. Use the same paper for your letter and CV and the same font size and style so it looks consistent. Arial is a good choice and no smaller than font size 11. Make sure your letter has both your address and the prospective employer’s address at the top and the details are correct. If known, address the letter to a named person, that is, the one who advertised the vacancy. If no particular name was mentioned, ‘Sir/Madam’. Aim for no more than three or four paragraphs and keep sentences short. Use the right language and tone – keep it professional and match the key words used by the employer in the job advert. Show you have done your research into the company and the job role. Double check the spellings and grammar are correct. Do not rely on the computer spell checker. If the letter is addressed to a named person, end it with ‘Yours sincerely’. If not, use ‘Yours faithfully’. After this, don’t forget your signature. Keep a copy of your covering letter as you may be asked about it at interview.

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COVERING LETTERS

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Job searches - where to look What type of work are you looking for? Before starting to look for work you need to ask yourself some questions: • What type of work do I want to do? • What type of environment do I want to work in? • Do I want to work part-time or full-time? • What qualifications, experience and skills have I got to offer an employer? • Where can I travel to? • Will I need to use public transport? Will it still be available if I am working very late or very early? • Have I got a CV? If so, is it up to date? Where and how to find the job you want Being pro-active is essential when job hunting, very rarely will the job come to you. Try these top tips to get you started: 1. Tell everyone you know that you are looking for a job – family, friends, neighbours etc. This creates a wider network of people looking for jobs which increases your chances. Your online social media friends may follow different groups than you do. One of these may know about or even have the ideal job for you. Friends may be working somewhere and tell you when they know a colleague is leaving. 2. If it’s part time work keep your eyes open in shop/business windows or on their notice boards etc. These jobs are soon snapped up especially if they are in a prime location with lots of footfall and there is no cost to the employer when putting a sign in their window. If you are in a shop/café/restaurant or anywhere really and they look busy, politely ask if they are looking for extra staff. Sometimes it’s a case of being in the right place at the right time. 3. Local Job Centres advertise vacancies and can provide advice on the whole application process. In addition, they use social media to publicise openings. Following these can keep you updated to any new posts.

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JOB SEARCH

4. Company websites – There may be a particular employer you would like to work for and many use their own websites to promote job vacancies. Some will expect you to send in a CV while others will ask you to complete their online application form. They will also have a variety of social media accounts – Facebook, twitter, Instagram, YouTube which you can follow and check out. This can both inform you when they are advertising vacancies and provide you with some valuable insight into what they have been promoting – awards they have won, new contracts they have acquired, charity events they sponsor. All of this will help you decide if it is the right company for you to work for. It can help you tailor your application and show your interest at any future interviews. However, be aware of your own online profile; do not disclose any personal data and remember - employers check out prospective candidates too. 5. LinkedIn is a professional network site where you can create an account, complete your profile details – basically your CV details - and search for job vacancies. These are usually high quality, professional vacancies and like other social media platforms, you grow and develop your network. Opportunities may be recommended to you based on your qualifications and interests in addition to industry articles that are published. If you did want to work at a specific company, you could find people who are connected that you possibly already know and contact them for more details. 6. Indeed, Monster, Reed, Total Jobs are examples of recruitment consultants and agencies who often use networking sites to find suitable people. You can register your profile and upload your CV and they will contact you of any suitable jobs. You can set up alerts and will also find job advice listed. Remember to keep your CV updated and tailor it to each job you apply for. Be aware that sometimes they advertise fictitious jobs just to build their client numbers. Most charge the employer and not the applicant, but it is advisable to ask about registration fees beforehand 7. Job Fairs – are advertised by job centres, local councils and events companies to promote employment vacancies with the area. Often held in large venues they bring employers and applicants together. It’s worth taking a few copies of your CV along in case you want to hand one out. 8. If you want to work in a specific area why not try looking in the journals and magazines relating to that particular occupation e.g., Nursing Times, The Law Society Gazette, The Grocer etc. – check out the library at college. Alternatively, industry specific websites – Tomorrow’s Engineers; AAT (Accountancy), RIBA (Architecture). 9. Make a list of companies you would be interested in working for,and then send out your CV along with a speculative letter, asking whether they have any suitable vacancies. Give yourself weekly targets in terms of employers you will contact and don’t forget to keep a record. Try and find out who is the Human Resource Manager, or the person hiring and address it to them. Don’t be disheartened if you are unsuccessful or don’t get a reply. 10. Offer to do some voluntary work/work shadowing in your chosen area. This should give you the opportunity to gain experience, make new contacts and even generate some job offers. Taking up short contract or casual work bank work will also help with this.

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JOB SEARCH

Useful websites For more information and advice see the following websites: https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/ https://www.prospects.ac.uk/ For job vacancies see the selection of websites below: https://uk.jooble.org/ https://uk.indeed.com/

http://www.simplyhired.co.uk https://www.gov.uk/find-a-job https://www.fish4.co.uk https://www.e4s.co.uk/ https://www.jobs.nhs.uk/ https://www.jobsgopublic.com/ https://www.monster.co.uk/ https://www.totaljobs.com/ https://www.retailchoice.com/

For local council jobs have a look on their websites, for example: South Ribble Borough Council Chorley Council Preston City Council

Bolton Council Sefton Council Wigan Council Lancashire County Council

Disabilities If you have a disability there are a number of websites that may be worth checking out, they include: https://www.gov.uk/looking-for-work-if-disabled https://www.evenbreak.co.uk/en

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JOB SEARCH

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Application forms Things to Remember

Job application forms are used by employers to help them decide which applicants to interview. Companies spend a great deal of time and thought designing these forms to ensure they select the right candidates, so it is important that you complete the form correctly. Most application forms are processed through AI scanning technology to match candidates to key words in the job descriptions. AI could be used to generate a draft framework, however, please be advised many employers use software to identify any plagiarism, ensure this is all your own work. When applying for jobs using application forms, the types of questions asked may help you decide what the employer is looking for. However, it is not always easy to effectively “showcase” your experiences through a set template - this is how the employer puts your prioritising and communication skills to the test. (Have a look at the example application form at the back of the fact sheet. This will give you some idea of the different sections included in most job application forms). Many employers will ask you to complete an online application form rather than one in paper format. Preparation When completing an application form it is important to remember the following points. Allow enough time to make a good job of each form. They do take time to complete so be prepared. • Ensure you have a copy of the job description/person specification and that you meet all the essential criteria. If you don’t, it may not be advisable to apply for the job as you may be wasting the employer’s time, and your own. • Photocopy the form several times or save it to your device if it’s an electronic version. You will then have enough blank forms to practice on rather than using the original. • Plan ahead – it is essential that you fully understand what each question is looking for. Make notes beforehand, to check you include all the relevant information or use the best examples for each relevant section. You don’t want to leave anything of importance out. • Gather all the information you will need to complete the form e.g. qualifications (examining bodies, dates etc), employment details and dates etc. • Always follow the instructions on the form. For example, complete the form using black ink, fill in all sections, do not attach or refer to your CV etc. • Read through the whole form before you start in order to avoid making mistakes.

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APPLICATION FORMS

Completing the Application Form

The Dos If you are typing the form, always use a standard font e.g. Arial (minimum font size 11pt) or use whatever is specified in the instructions. If you are handwriting your form, use black ink and your writing is legible. Always practice your form, then when you are happy you can complete the original. Make sure you insert the allocated job reference number for the vacancy in the appropriate space on the form. Complete all sections of the form, saving each section once completed, if possible. Focus on what you have to offer, using the job description and job specification as a reference. Remember why you were interested in applying for the post in the first place. Always list your jobs in reverse chronological order by job title. If you didn’t have an official job title, try and think of one that summed up your role. Don’t forget to complete any accompanying documents such as Equal Opportunities Monitoring form if the employer has requested them. Keep a photocopy of your completed application form for yourself after you submit the original to the employer. Ensure you save the electronic version of your answers, as you may need to refer to them when preparing for the next stage of the application e.g. interview. Be positive – do not include anything that could be seen as negative. Never submit an incomplete form with a “refer to enclosed CV” note. This will eliminate your application straightaway. The employer will have their reasons for recruiting by application form rather than requesting CVs, so you must follow procedures if you want to be short-listed. Never send additional information such as supporting statements unless the employer specifically requests them. If you are required to send evidence of professional training, educational history or copies of references, never send the originals. Photocopy them and only produce originals if specifically requested. And the Don’ts

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APPLICATION FORMS

Never leave blank spaces on the application form when you are required to complete all sections. If there are sections that don’t relate to you simply write or type “Not applicable”. Otherwise, answer all other sections as required.

When completing an on-line application form via the employer’s website never alter the size or format of the form unless you are given that option.

Try not to waffle - be concise in your style of writing.

Don’t be tempted to cut and paste answers from other application forms – start afresh with each job you apply for.

Do not you repeat yourself within different questions. Try and draw from a range of your experiences e.g. college course, part-time job, volunteering or hobby/ interest, rather than referring to examples from just one aspect of your life.

Open Questions Some job application forms have an open page for you to complete, this can seem quite daunting to start with. Try to structure the space using key headings, where appropriate. If no guidance is provided you may want to include evidence of the following: • Relevant skills and qualities. • Information about your career motivation and how you may have researched the job/career so far. • Personal achievements. • Details of work experience – emphasise transferable skills such as being an effective communicator, reliability and customer service etc. • Hobbies and interests (remember nothing which could be seen as controversial) Do any of your outside interests demonstrate the different employability skills which employers will be looking for e.g. team working or learning a new skill?

Don’t forget to support what you say by giving examples. It is very easy to list all your skills and abilities, but you will need to provide supporting evidence as to where and how these have been demonstrated.

References Where references are requested, ensure you have permission from the person giving the reference to include their details. Provide full contact details for each reference.

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APPLICATION FORMS

Example Application Form

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Remember... You can include all types of work experience such as full-time, part-time, paid or voluntary or work placements. This gives the employer an overview of the different skills, qualities, and experiences you have. Most job roles will generally involve a number of employability skills such as communication, team working, learning a new skill and using your initiative, which is what the employer will be keen to see.

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APPLICATION FORMS

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Job interviews - how to be confident How to prepare Getting invited for an interview means you have passed the first hurdle – your application must have made a good impression. You now need to prepare yourself for the interview to ensure you do not waste an opportunity you have worked hard for. This means thinking about the questions you might be asked and doing some research into the company and job role. What employers want During your interview it is important for you to come across as employable. This means demonstrating that you have the necessary skills, abilities and personal characteristics required for the job. The list below shows the “Top Ten” employability skills put together by employers, outlining the characteristics they are generally looking for in an applicant:

Communication Problem solving

Creativity and adaptability Digital and numeracy skills Work ethic and professionalism Staying positive Accountability Teamwork and leadership Valuing diversity and difference Time management and organisation

Remember, if you say you have excellent teamwork skills, for example, you will need to provide some supporting evidence e.g. member of football team, team project as part of college course, part-time job etc.

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JOB INTERVIEWS

Research the company Make time before the interview to find out as much as you can about the company and then think about why you want to work there. You could read up on the company by visiting their website and checking their social media platforms. What to wear While many employers expect candidates to dress smartly, a growing number encourage casual wear at work, making it trickier than ever to choose an interview outfit. What you’ll be expected to wear depends on factors such as the size of the company, the industry it operates in and the culture it promotes. For example, a small creative agency may have different standards to a major accountancy firm. If you’re unsure on the dress code, ask before attending the interview. The key point to remember is that it’s better to be too smart than too casual. Only opt for a more casual outfit if you’re certain that’s acceptable - if there’s any doubt, go for smart business attire. Whatever you choose, make sure that your clothes are ironed, and your shoes are clean. For telephone and online interviews make sure you dress as though the interview is in person. Sitting in your tracksuit bottoms trying to act professional probably isn’t going to go too well. (Source Prospects.ac.uk – July 2022). At the interview Feeling nervous is perfectly natural, so symptoms such as a fast heartbeat, clammy hands and butterflies in your stomach are to be expected. Nervous tension may make your voice sound shaky, so practice deep, slow breathing before you get to the interview, as this will help slow your heart rate down. Make sure you have turned your mobile phone off. important to ensure you make a positive statement. Here are a few tips: • Enter the room confidently, shake hands firmly and introduce yourself • Be polite and friendly • Look interested • Answer questions as fully as you can – avoid yes and no answers • Provide examples to prove your achievements • Ask if you do not understand a question • Speak clearly • Sell yourself – make sure you get your good points across First Impressions You make an impression in the first few minutes of meeting someone, so it is really

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Think Positive! Your body language is caused mainly by the thoughts that are buzzing round your head, consequently negative thoughts result in negative body language. Thinking “I am going to get the job” and reminding yourself of why you can be successful will help your non-verbal communication appear more positive. Interview questions Most interview questions are a variation on a theme and generally focus on three main areas: • Finding out who you are and what you are doing/have been doing • Confirming your interest in the job role • Finding out whether you are the right person for the job

It is, therefore, likely that they will ask you some version of the following three questions:

• Tell me about yourself/How would you describe yourself? • What interests you about this job? What made you apply? • What can you offer us? Why should we employ you?

Before your interview prepare some appropriate responses to these questions. However, don’t try and memorise your answers word for word, you need to appear natural, rather than reciting well-rehearsed monologues.

Don’t forget to support what you say by giving examples. One way of answering questions is via the use of the STAR technique which stands for: S ituation = Where were you and what were you doing? T ask = What did you set out to achieve? A ction = What did you do? R esult = What did you achieve?

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JOB INTERVIEWS

Work Experience Example:

Question: Tell us about a recent difficult situation or problem that you encountered in work. How did you resolve it and how did you learn from it?

Answer: Whilst working on the counter at Burger Town, a customer began to complain out loud about the service being slow ( SITUATION ) and I had to serve the customer, as well as calm him down as not to upset the other customers who were also waiting for their food ( TASK ). To do this I listened carefully to the customer and explained that the delay in service was due to a lack of staff due to sickness and after consulting with my supervisor I offered him complimentary drinks whilst he waited ( ACTION ). The customer then calmed down after realising why the delay was occurring and I learnt the importance of listening to people and being calm under pressure ( RESULT ).

Examples of additional questions − What qualities do you think will be required for this job? − What can you contribute to the company? − Why do you want to work for this company? − What do you know about this company? − What interests you about our product/service? − You haven’t done this job before. How will you cope/succeed?

− What are your strengths/weaknesses? − Why have you chosen a career in …? − How do you get on with people? − Describe any relevant work experience you have − What makes an effective team member?

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− How do you cope under pressure? − Why have you had so many jobs/only one job? − What did you do in your last job? − How do you spend your spare time? What are your hobbies? − What are you looking for in a new job? − What would your ideal job be? − Are you considering any other positions at the moment? − Describe your main achievements − Where do you see yourself in 5/10/15 years’ time? − What is your career plan? − What sort of training have you undertaken in your present job? − Have you any questions you would like to ask?

Ask your own questions It is a good idea to prepare some questions of your own to ask the panel, here are some examples; - How would you describe the company culture and management style? - What would a current employee say the best thing about working at… is? - What can I expect from you in terms of development and support? - How can I in my role help my team achieve the organisational objectives? - What aspirations do you have for me at the company? - Where will the job fit into the team structure?

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JOB INTERVIEWS

Assessment centres As part of the interview process you may be asked to attend an assessment centre where you will be asked to participate in a combination of tasks and activities. These are an opportunity for you to demonstrate your skills and abilities and you will usually be joined by a number of other candidates. You will be asked to work both individually and as part of a group in a variety of tasks such as in tray exercises, role play, presentations, written tests or psychometric tests. Employers are looking to see if you are a ‘good fit’ for their organisation and will be assessing key skills such as communication, creativity, decision-making, planning and teamwork. Remember, all, several or none of the candidates may be successful. If you are unsuccessful, ask for feedback so you can improve for the next one! • Be assertive, but not ‘aggressive’ during the exercises • If you make a mistake in one task, do not dwell on it. It is only one part of the overall assessment. • Draw others into the group discussions, it shows good team-working skills • Do not worry about the other candidates, if you work well together you may all be offered the job • Be friendly and polite to everyone you meet; you are always being assessed • Relax and let your personality shine through Telephone interviews Increasingly employers are turning to telephone/skype/teams/zoom/video interviews as a screening process as they save time and help keep interview costs down. • Prepare by practice speaking on the phone to increase your confidence. • Ask family, friends or a student adviser to call you for a mock interview. • Always answer any call in a professional and positive way – ‘Good morning/ afternoon’ do not be caught out if you have a pre-arranged interview booked • Remember to treat this interview as you would a face to face one and research the company well beforehand. • Have paper and pen to hand to jot anything down. • If it is a Skype/Teams/Zoom/video interview remember to check what an interviewer will see behind you. • Choose a suitable location – avoid noisy, public spaces and if at home, minimise background noises by closing windows, turning off the television or radio • Dress to impress, even if it is a telephone interview – it will make you ‘feel the part’ and boost your confidence. • Have a glass of water ready - interview nerves can lead to a dry mouth

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To summarise … • Know the job description • Research into the company

• Know what you have to offer – your strengths, an acceptable weakness, your skills, abilities and experience (remember transferable skills such as communication skills, teamwork, ability to use own initiative etc.) • Practise answering standard/common questions • Prepare for non-standard questions, particularly relating to the job/company • Have examples ready of situations- to demonstrate your skills

• Prepare questions to ask the interviewer/s • Smile and show enthusiasm – it works!

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JOB INTERVIEWS

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Disclosing disabilities, medical conditions or illness

There is no obligation for you to disclose a disability, medical condition or illness - it is your own decision.

Employment is covered by the Equality Act. This means it is unlawful for employers to discriminate against people with disabilities or health conditions in their recruitment and selection procedures. Many employers are committed to employing and developing people with disabilities, medical conditions or

illness. The positive about disabled people symbol / scheme (2 ticks) has been replaced with the disability confident scheme. As symbol users of the disability confident scheme, organisations guarantee to interview all applicants who have declared a disability, and who meet the minimum essential criteria for the vacancy/ ies. It is quite natural to worry about disclosing a disability, medical condition or illness to an employer when applying for a job. Although you may be uncertain about how an employer may react, there are good reasons for telling a potential employer about a disability. Under the Equality Act, employers must also consider making any ‘reasonable adjustments’ you might need in order to enable you to work for them. The reasonable adjustments should help remove any disadvantage. Whether or not it is reasonable for your employer to make a particular adjustment will depend on the specific circumstances It is worth remembering that if your employer does not know you have a disability, they cannot make any adjustments to help you undertake the requirements of your job. Deciding how and when to declare a disability, medical condition or illness.

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DISCLOSING DISABILITY