Ольга Анатольевна Смагина "How to nail a job interview and stand out from other applicants"

How to prepare for a job interview in English?This book is your ultimate resource for interview success. By following our tips and practicing your answers, you will be well-equipped to handle any interview scenario. You will learn how to structure your CV effectively and highlight your strengths in the way that captures the attention of hiring managers. The book provides you with the section for IT specialists as an example.This section focuses on the most popular and challenging questions, which are often asked during IT job interviews.Эта книга – ваш главный помощник. Следуя нашим советам и практикуя ответы, вы будете хорошо подготовлены к любому сценарию собеседования. Вы научитесь эффективно структурировать свое резюме и подчеркивать свои сильные стороны таким образом, чтобы привлечь внимание менеджеров по найму. В книге есть раздел для ИТ-специалистов. В этом разделе рассмотрены наиболее популярные и сложные вопросы, которые часто задают на собеседованиях в сфере ИТ.

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update Дата обновления : 04.11.2023


– Wrote and debugged programs and complex SQL queries for customer consumption forecasting. As part of my role at Tshwane University of Technology,

I have developed a Java stream processing application running on the S5 platform for detecting algorithmically generated domain names in DNS queries.

I have also standardized procedures regarding 'Scalable and Elastic Event Processing' (SEEP) and secured applications by enforcing Information Flow Control policies within middleware.

The majority of companies and recruiters  are known to use applicant-tracking systems so as to scan CVs for  particular key words that can be seen in the job description.

Thus, if you plan to  apply for an advertised job , you should analyze the job description and detect  these  key words in order to  insert them naturally  into your CV .

Remember: the more matches the system finds between the job description and your CV, the more likely your CV will be considered by a real recruiter.

Let’s imagine that you want to build up your career in the field of web management.  Here is a good example of how to achieve it with the help of obvious key words.

It’s worth mentioning that if you  write some of them with initial capital letters (e.g. Web Producer), it will  make your keywords stand out to the human recruiter (but obviously makes no difference if your CV is scanned automatically). Quite the reverse, if you manage to include one of the key words-web several times in your CV ( in such combinations as website,Web Producer, Web Developer  , web content , web services, etc.), a recruiter’s software will be able to find them increasing the chances of having your CV selected

Summary: Work Experience

We recommend :

separating each experience so that it will look the following:

1) date

2) company/organization

3) position

4) key roles played (plus a web link to the company, so that an  HR manager  can find out more about your working places

-putting dates in a reverse chronological order.

–using verbs  without pronouns at beginning of sentences (e.g. Improved rather than I improved).

-Inserting as many key words as possible.

-Avoiding  using personal pronouns

-Making your experience look both relevant and dynamic.

– How to present your skills correctly

SKILLS TECHNICAL SKILLS When writing your resume, it is important to include technical skills that meet the job requirements or that you believe would be beneficial for the position you are applying for.

LANGUAGE SKILLS When you describe language skills, you can use the following terms:

– Mother tongue

– Fluent (spoken and written)

– Good working knowledge (indicating that you have enough proficiency to carry out your work)

–Scholastic (only mention if the job specifications specifically mention these languages and you believe it would increase your chances of getting the job).

To demonstrate your language skills, you can list the English examinations you have taken, such as the TOEFL exam, IELTS and other international exams

– How to attract an interview’s attention by personal interests

Personal interests are crucial as they provide insights into your personality and character that may not be evident in the rest of your CV. They are unique and can give HR professionals a better understanding of who you are as a person. When mentioning your personal interests, it is important to consider the following:

1. Showcasing your social conscience: Include any voluntary or charity work you have done, as it demonstrates your commitment to helping others.

2. Highlighting leadership skills: Mention any experiences where you have been a team captain or sports trainer, as it reflects your ability to lead and motivate others.

3. Demonstrating communication skills: Include activities that require effective communication, such as public speaking or debating.

4. Fun and positive connotations: Mention hobbies that are enjoyable and have a positive impact, such as salsa dancing or playing the saxophone. Also, include interesting and creative activities like acting, pottery, or short story writing.

5. Indicating responsibility: If others consider you to be responsible, mention activities like babysitting or pet-sitting.

6. Unusual without being strange: Include unique hobbies like acrobatics, which can make you stand out without seeming odd.

Avoid mentioning common activities that most people do, such as reading or traveling.

Instead, be specific and mention your favorite books or destinations. Avoid activities that are political, religious, or contentious, such as hunting or shooting. HR professionals are interested in your ability to work in a team and your social skills.

Therefore, avoid mentioning solitary or nerdy activities like computer games or stamp collecting. Be cautious when mentioning activities that may be perceived negatively by some companies. For example, being a blood donor may require time off work for which the company has to pay you, which may not be ideal for them. Lastly, avoid mentioning activities that people tend to have strong opinions about, such as board games or role-playing games. These can be divisive and are best avoided.

-How to write correct references and reference letters

REFERENCES AND REFERENCE LETTERS Including references in your CV is a common practice that allows potential employers to verify your background and learn more about your skills and personality. It is an important part of the screening process for HR professionals. To include references in your CV, make a section titled "References" at the end. List three or four individuals who can serve as your referees and provide the following information:

1. Name: Include the full name of each referee.

2. Relationship: Specify the nature of your relationship with each referee, such as a thesis tutor or internship supervisor.

3. Workplace: Mention the organization or institution where each referee is employed.

4. Email address: place the email address of each referee so that the HR person can easily contact them.

5. Website: If your referees have personal or professional websites, include the URL so that HR can gather more information about them.

Here is an example:

1. Professor Pinco Pallino (my thesis tutor), University of London Email: p.pallino@londonuni.ac.uk Website: www.pincopallino.com (http://www.pincopallino.com)

2. Professor Zack Madman (in whose lab I did a 3-month internship), University of Harvard Email: z.madman@harvard.edu

Website: www.harvard.edu/madman Remember to inform your referees beforehand and seek their permission to include their information in your CV. Additionally, ensure that the contact details provided are accurate and up-to-date.

-How to use a template for writing your CV

IT CV example for IT professions

Пример того, что должно быть в вашем резюме, если у вас мало опыта. В этом случае лучше делать акцент на ваших профессиональных качествах и сильных сторонах.Here is an example of a professional CV based on a candidate who is a recent graduate with limited experience:

Professional summary

Recent graduate with a BSc in Computer Science and Information Technology seeking an entry-level position as an IT technician. Highly motivated and skilled with an understanding of a number of different coding languages such as HTML and Python. Trained in software and hardware installation with great attention to detail and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

Work experience

3-month internship with a small IT firm in Paddington.

Learned how to fix a number of hardware and software issues.

Learned how to onboard clients and assess their needs.

Gained an understanding of how to meet tight deadlines.

Education

in BSc Computer Science from the University of London.

Modules included: Artificial intelligence principles, software engineering principles, programming languages and practice.

Certifications

Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist

HTML

Certification PCAP – Certified Associate in Python Programming

Skills and strengths

Advanced computer skills: During my degree, I worked as a part of a team to successfully create a teaching software application and passed all of my relevant exams with an A.

Adept understanding of programming: I earned both an HTML certification and PCAP certification. I also recently became a Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist.

Please note that none of the companies, institutions or organizations mentioned in this article are affiliated with Indeed.

-How to write  a  CV for an IT specialist

Наиболее используемый хронологический формат, как правило, безотказен для организации информации в вашем резюме. Рекрутеры предпочитают его т к это наиболее простой способ ознакомиться с вашей трудовой деятельностью, перечисленной в обратном порядке от самых последних к самым ранним датам.

Но, если вы являетесь самозанятым ИТ-специалистом и занимаетесь независимой работой, возможно, вы захотите рассмотреть функциональный формат резюме. Оно поможет вам выделить ваши наиболее сильные стороны в соответствии с проектами. Гибридные (комбинированные) форматы резюме – еще один универсальный вариант, включающий как хронологические, так и функциональные элементы.

Мы собираемся рассмотреть все элементы резюме с примерами, которые вы можете использовать.

1.Краткое резюме ИТ-специалиста

Как и в большинстве типов резюме, лучше всего включить в свое резюме краткое содержание . Если вы взглянете на примеры резюме, то увидите, что сверху обычно появляется короткий абзац, в котором кратко излагается все резюме.

Краткое содержание резюме  – еще один отличный способ выделить ваше резюме. Профессиональное резюме должно быть емким, по существу и детализированным.

Независимо от того, есть у вас реальный опыт работы в IT-индустрии или нет, вы все равно можете составить резюме, указав свои цели, навыки и сертификаты.

При написании профессионального резюме не забудьте составить его таким образом, чтобы оно показывало, что вы идеально подходите для этой работы. Покажите, что вы действительно специалист в области технической поддержки.

For a fresh IT graduate, here’s an example of a professional summary.

A.S. Computer Information Technology graduate seeking an IT specialist position in Max Software Solutions, Inc. High level of knowledge in IT security and IT support systems with specialty certifications as Help Desk Technician and Internet Security Specialist. Completed 360 hours Internship Program with Min Software Solutions, Inc.

You can try this type of professional summary if you already have some work experience.

CDP, CISSP and CCIE certified IT professional with experience in maintaining Mac OS, MS-Windows, and Ubuntu computer systems. 5+ years of experience as Internet Security Manager and trained 30+ staff members. Successfully launched Zeus E-Commerce Co’s largest computer security software which resulted in faster and safer operating systems for employees and customers.

2.Советы, как выделить раздел "Трудовой стаж"

Большинство компаний ищут ИТ-специалистов с опытом работы. Если у вас еще нет официального опыта работы, начните создавать свое портфолио и совершенствовать свои навыки прямо сейчас.

Поскольку большинство компаний, ориентированных на технологии, в значительной степени полагаются на свой ИТ-персонал, вы должны быть готовы к работе в конкурентной среде. В ней нет места ошибкам. Поэтому методы проб и ошибок в этой отрасли не сработают. Одна упущенная деталь может привести к огромной проблеме, которая, в свою очередь, может повлиять на весь бизнес и его клиентов.

Выделите свой трудовой стаж в резюме. Расскажите о своем опыте, компаниях, с которыми вы работали, и положительных результатах, которых вы добились в работе.

Делайте акцент на том опыте, который имеет отношение к вакансии.

Кроме того, вы должны постоянно совершенствоваться и обновлять знания. Поскольку инновации в технологиях происходят изо дня в день, то, чему вы научились 5 лет назад, сегодня может оказаться бесполезным. Поэтому будьте уверены, что вы обновляете свои знания и продолжаете учиться каждый день.

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