Employability: Getting In (Part Two) Angus Farr – Training Counts

What we covered in the previous webinar Definition What employers are looking for How they select Why candidates fail Your ‘transferable skills’ CVs and application forms

What we’ll cover today What to expect ‘on the day’! First impressions Ability tests Interviews Individual exercises Group exercises What now?

What to expect ‘on the day’! An early start! Reception Other candidates Staff at employers

First impressions Personal impact: What you wear Handshake Smile What you say How you say it Your non-verbal communication What you wear Handshake Smile Active listening You’re always being assessed!

Ability tests A huge range Ability tests Verbal Numerical Abstract Spatial Accuracy

Ability tests – number patterns 4, 9, 16, 25, ___ 6 36 27 11 35

Ability tests – number patterns 72, 60, 54, 51, ___ 48 52.5 72 3 49.5

Ability tests – numerical critical reasoning Which of the following packets of biscuits offer the best value per 100 grams 500g for £1.35 400g for £1 350g for 95p 300g for 70p 250g for 75p

Ability tests A huge range Ability tests ‘Personality’ tests Verbal Numerical Abstract Spatial Accuracy ‘Personality’ tests

Interviews They’re unavoidable! Important to you and the employer Context of 3 questions – ability, motivation, fit Actual experience v hypothetical behaviour Show off what you did Works both ways – ask them good questions Practise practise practise!

Individual exercises Might test work content, work context or both Format more often written than verbal Example: proofreading exercise

Individual exercises - proofreading At a recent local counsel meeting it was decided to increase support for local businesses. Its absolutely crucial in these current times to help enturprise in the local area. The first step will be to canvas the views of business people on the assistance they would find usefull. Then we can device a plan of action, idealy one that compliments our existing business strategy. Of course weather we can do something productive is largely dependant on the resources available to us – that is an entirely seperate matter!

Individual exercises - proofreading At a recent local council meeting it was decided to increase support for local businesses. It’s absolutely crucial in these current times to help enterprise in the local area. The first step will be to canvass the views of business people on the assistance they would find useful. Then we can devise a plan of action, ideally one that complements our existing business strategy. Of course whether we can do something productive is largely dependent on the resources available to us – that is an entirely separate matter!

Group exercises Might test work content, work context or both Format more often verbal than written Could be a presentation! Employers are looking for substance and style of your contribution Example: group feedback scenario

What now? Have a think about what we’ve covered Do your research www.icaew.com/careers School and college careers services Teachers and lecturers Friends and family Good luck!

Employability: Getting In (Part Two) Angus Farr – Training Counts