Tips to help you get the job of your choice

Your Jobcentre

• The Jobcentre can help you find work even if you are not claiming benefit.
• Check out the latest job vacancies at Kiln House on Pottergate and at the Recruitment Centre on Theatre Street, Norwich. New jobs are coming in every day.
• For tips on how best to look for work, ask for a copy of The Job Kit - your crucial jobsearch guide.

Your CV

• Your CV is your most important sales tool - make sure it is well presented and typed, not hand written.
• Keep to two sides of A4 or less - include as much information as possible without any clutter.
• Limit your personal details to name, address and telephone number - keep this section to less than half a page.
• Keep details of your education brief, but include relevant training and qualifications.
• List the jobs you have done in date order, starting with the most recent.
• Tailor your CV to the work you are looking for - expand the parts relevant to your new position. t t If returning to work after a break, include any voluntary work you may have done.

That vital call

• Get organised before you start.
• Know who you need to talk to - if in doubt, ask for the personnel officer.
• If you are nervous, jot down what you want to say as a reminder. t If using a pay phone, have plenty of change or a phone card to hand.
• Have a pen and paper nearby to write down information.
• Take the name of the person you are talking to.
• It is not always easy to reach the person you want by phone. If they are not available, ask for a convenient time to call again.

The application form

• Read instructions carefully and take your time.
• Photocopy the form first. Use the copy as a rough to avoid mistakes.
• Keep the form clean, make sure your writing is neat using ink not pencil. Avoid crossings out and spelling mistakes - use a dictionary.
• If a question does not apply, write "not applicable". Do not cross through or leave it out.
• Keep in mind the job description when filling out the form.
• Think carefully about what you have done that will interest the employer - use the additional information box if necessary.
• On completion, check the form, sign and date it.
• Send it off in good time and keep a copy if you can.

The Interview

• Find out about the company - it will show you are keen.
• Think about questions you could be asked - e.g. Why have you applied for this job? What are your strengths and weaknesses?
• Consider questions you could ask. What would a typical day at work involve? What are the training opportunities?
• First impressions are important -dress smartly and look neat and tidy.
• Plan how you will get to the interview and aim to arrive 10 minutes early.
• Read through your CV or application form beforehand to remind yourself what the employer already knows about you.
• Be positive about yourself and the job and polite at all times.
• Never criticise or complain about a previous employer.

Information supplied by Norwich Jobcentre