HR Manager’s Column – Episode 4: I got the qualification, what now?

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Insider tips from our Head of HR and Training

If you have achieved your ICB qualification, congratulations! But this is only the first step. What are you doing to enhance your employability? When recruiting staff, the employer will look at more than just your qualification, they will be trying to see if you have the required competencies to fulfil the role, and also whether you will be a good fit to the company culture and values, how can you show this?

a. Job shadowing/Volunteer experience: `

We understand not everyone will have working experience straight after studying, but what have you done to gain exposure to the working world during or after your studies? In your CV you should list any job shadowing or volunteer experience you have had.

b. Leadership roles during school:

If you were ever a class representative or prefect in school, list this in your CV too! This says a lot about your leadership ability.

c. Extramural activities:

When you are not working or studying, how do you spend your days? What are you passionate about? Are you a nature-lover or book worm? You can note that too!

d. Any additional courses:

What are you doing to improve your professional development? If you have noticed that your admin skills are not very good, why not do a course to learn new skills? There are many online sites which offer short courses to improve skills, such as Linkedin Learning or Udimy, and this shows employers that you are invested in your own development. If you are also a member of our sister company ICBA, then you will have free access to our webinars which you also help your continuous professional development (CPD). Being a part of a membership body such as the ICBA also shows your credibility to employers so if you are not yet a member, check out the website today!

HR Manager’s Column – Episode 3: The day of the interview

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Insider tips from our Head of HR and Training

a. Dress to impress

It is important to look your best on the day of the interview, even if the company does not have a formal dress code, you want to stand out from other candidates. Look professional!

b. Arrive early

Anticipate traffic and the worst-case scenario, ensure that you arrive at least 15 minutes early to the interview. This also gives you a chance to have a look around and get an idea of the company culture, how do the staff interact? How does everyone behave? Being on-time also makes a good first impression.

c. It is ok to be nervous

Nerves are expected at an interview, arriving a bit early and being very well prepares can help a lot. This is why I suggest making all your notes in your notebook, so that even if you are a bit nervous, you can refer to your notes. Take a deep breath, it is ok!

d. Preparation is everything!

Have I mentioned this enough?

e. Remember to smile and show good body language

Again, you want to make a good and lasting impression, ensure that you show good body language and a positive attitude before and during the interview.