TM 7 - Improving Interview and Presentation Skill With RevoU (PODCAST) Part 1

Summary

This video discusses the importance of business writing, particularly in creating an effective CV or resume and preparing for job interviews. It emphasizes the significance of using the right words to 'sell' oneself, ensuring CVs are optimized for ATS (Application Tracking Systems) by incorporating relevant keywords. Key components for a standout CV include clear contact information, showcasing experience or academic projects for fresh graduates, and tailoring the CV to the target industry. The video also stresses the importance of researching a company’s industry and core competencies before an interview to stand out and provide unique, insightful answers.

Takeaways

• 😀 Business writing is about selling yourself, just like businesses sell products and services. A CV or resume is a way to 'sell' your skills and experience.
• 😀 The importance of having an ATS-friendly CV is crucial, as most HR departments now use ATS to screen resumes by matching keywords with job requirements.
• 😀 Key components of a CV include your name, contact details (email, LinkedIn, phone number), and relevant experience, including organization or project work if you're a fresh graduate.
• 😀 For fresh graduates with limited work experience, include academic research or projects (such as your thesis) to showcase your abilities and work ethic.
• 😀 The first thing that should be visible on a CV is your name and contact details, followed by the sections that will best sell your strengths to potential employers.
• 😀 Even without professional experience, highlight your organizational skills and academic achievements to demonstrate your qualifications and potential.
• 😀 Researching the company and its industry is important, especially before an interview. It helps you answer questions uniquely and show you've done your homework.
• 😀 Showing that you've researched the company's core values, mission, and industry can help you stand out during an interview by making your response more personal and informed.
• 😀 Avoid generic answers in interviews like mentioning a company’s size or generic qualities. Provide specific reasons why you're interested based on your research.
• 😀 Personalizing your responses in an interview makes you memorable and differentiates you from other candidates, demonstrating deeper engagement with the company's goals.

Q & A

What is business writing and why is it important for students or those entering the professional world?

Business writing, in this context, refers to the ability to effectively present oneself through a CV or resume. It's important because, much like businesses sell products or services, individuals sell themselves in the job market. Crafting a well-written CV or resume helps present skills, experiences, and potential in a way that stands out to employers.

How can a CV be optimized to increase the chances of being read by HR professionals?

The key to increasing your CV's chances of being read is to make it 'ATS-friendly' (Application Tracking System). These systems scan CVs for specific keywords related to the role. Therefore, incorporating relevant keywords from the job description and industry is crucial.

What is an ATS, and how does it impact the effectiveness of a CV?

An ATS (Application Tracking System) is a software used by HR professionals to screen CVs by searching for specific keywords and phrases. It automates the process of filtering applications based on the presence of these keywords, making it essential for job seekers to tailor their CVs to align with these terms.

What are the most important components that should be included in a CV for students or fresh graduates?

The essential components of a CV include your name (at the top), contact details (email, LinkedIn, and phone number), and if applicable, any work experience. For fresh graduates without work experience, it is advisable to include details about any organizational roles, projects, or research like a thesis, as these demonstrate initiative and relevant skills.

How should students format the 'education' section of their CV if they have no prior work experience?

For students or fresh graduates with no work experience, the 'education' section should highlight academic achievements, relevant coursework, and possibly research projects or thesis work. Organizing this information clearly and showcasing any applicable skills learned during studies is key.

Is it necessary for job applicants to research a company before applying or attending an interview?

Yes, researching the company is essential, particularly before an interview. It helps candidates answer questions like 'Why do you want to work here?' in a unique way, showcasing that they have done their homework and have a deeper understanding of the company’s mission, values, and industry.

What are some common mistakes that students make when writing their CVs?

Some common mistakes include not placing the name and contact information at the top of the CV, failing to tailor the CV to the job description, and omitting important information like projects or organizational experience that could demonstrate relevant skills.

Why is it important for candidates to stand out during an interview and how does research help with that?

Research helps candidates answer interview questions in a unique way, avoiding generic answers that most people might give. By understanding the company’s core values and competitive advantage, candidates can position themselves as well-informed and genuinely interested, increasing their chances of being remembered.

How can students leverage their academic projects or research to strengthen their CV?

Students can include details about their academic projects or research, such as their thesis, by briefly explaining what the project was about, the skills they developed, and any outcomes or contributions. This helps demonstrate practical application of their academic learning, which is especially useful for those without work experience.

What role does unique personal branding play in a CV and resume?

Personal branding is crucial in making a CV stand out. By clearly identifying and showcasing unique skills, accomplishments, and experiences, candidates can differentiate themselves from other applicants. This is especially important in competitive industries, where the ability to stand out can be the key to landing a job.