How do you stand out from the crowd and show an employer you’re the perfect fit for the role? The starting point is a strong CV. Your CV is usually an employer’s first introduction to you, and first impressions count.

Put time into your CV and make sure it is well-presented and clearly structured. The structure should include a professional profile (summarising your professional experience and qualifications), key skills, work history, education/training and interests. Get the basics right: check spelling, grammar and formatting.

When applying for roles, tailor your CV to match role. This doesn’t mean writing a new CV from scratch: you may just need to emphasise particular skills and experience.

ADVERTISEMENT

Next consider your cover letter. A good cover letter helps to personalise you and your CV. Write it in a friendly style, including why you are interested in the role and company, and what skills and experience you have that match the role. Include something personal or unique that helps you stand out.

If you are lucky enough to be short-listed for an interview, congratulations! You’ve done a good job in getting your CV and cover letter right.

Now you need to consider how you’re going to sell yourself at the interview, to get that job.

Interview preparation is everything. It’s your first meeting with the employer, so it’s important to present yourself as a professional, competent and friendly person who would fit in well in the company.

Do your homework on the company and the role. In today’s digital age, information is readily available online. Read the job description and look at the responsibilities, key skills and experience required, and who you will be reporting to.

Prepare for the different types of questions you may be asked at interview. Many employers use a competency-based interview approach, where you will be asked for specific examples of knowledge, skills and experience in a particular area.

Present your best self at interview – confidence, great communication skills and a professional appearance are just as important as your skills and experience.

If you are interested in a career in the agri-industry, come along to the Irish Farmers Journal and open eir Agri Careers Fair, which takes place in the RDS on 3 March 2016. For more information, click here.