Need Help Securing Your Next Job?
We’re here to help you take the next step in your career journey.
Welcome to Manurewa Works
Whether you’re applying for your first job or looking to move up, we’ve got you covered with easy-to-follow tips for creating and fine-tuning your job applications. You’ll also find guidance on interview skills to help you feel confident and ready to impress employers. At Manurewa Works, we want to see you succeed.
How to write a CV
Create a header with contact information
Your header should be at the top of the page and include your name, phone number, and email address so employers can immediately know who you are and how to reach you.
Write a professional summary
Your professional summary is a short bio that introduces you to the reader. This section sums up your best qualifications and explains your ideal career path.
Detail your education
Since a CV is often used for the academic job search process, it’s important to include a section on your educational history. List your education in reverse chronological order, with your most recent degree first. Include both degrees you’ve earned and those you’re pursuing.
Provide your work experience
Detail all your practical work experience so your prospective employer can see your career path.
List your relevant skills
List any abilities that apply to the potential job, such as foreign languages or a type of software. Try to include skills that relate to the job description to make yourself a more desirable candidate.
Describe your personal interests
You can choose to include a brief description of your hobbies and interests. Including a few hobbies may help you form a personal connection with the hiring manager.
How To Make a Great Impression in a Job Interview
Research the company and interviewers
Understanding key information about the company you’re interviewing with can help you go into your interview with confidence. The company’s website, social media posts and recent press releases will provide a solid understanding of the company’s goals and culture and how your background makes you a great fit.
Practice your answers
Prepare your answer to the common question: “Tell me about yourself, and why are you interested in this role with our company?” The idea is to quickly communicate who you are and what value you’ll bring to the company and the role; this is your elevator pitch. Also, you should come prepared to discuss your salary expectations. If you’re unsure what salary is appropriate to ask for, visit Indeed Salaries for the average pay range for your position.
Reread the job description
You may want to print it out and begin underlining specific skills the employer desires. Think about examples from your past and current work that align with these requirements.
Provide your work experience
Detail all your practical work experience so your prospective employer can see your career path.
Plan your interview attire the night before
If you speak to a recruiter before the interview, ask them about the dress code in the workplace and choose your outfit accordingly. If you don’t have someone to ask, research the company to learn what’s appropriate.
Arrive early
Plan to arrive 10 to 15 minutes before the scheduled interview time. Map out your route to the interview location so you can arrive on time. Consider doing a practice run before your interview day. If you’re taking public transportation, identify a backup plan in case there are delays or closures. When you arrive early, use the extra minutes to observe the workplace dynamics.
Win them over
Being genuine during interview conversations can help employers easily relate to you. Showing positivity with an upbeat attitude can help keep the interview light and constructive.
Respond truthfully
While it can seem tempting to embellish your skills and accomplishments, honesty is the best policy. Focus on your key strengths and why your background makes you uniquely qualified for the position. Being able to identify something you struggle with and how you work day-to-day to rectify it shows maturity and self-awareness.
Stay positive
Don’t speak negatively about previous employers. Companies want to hire problem solvers capable of overcoming tough situations. If you’re feeling discouraged about your current job, focus on what you’ve gained from the experience and what you want to do next.