Looking for a career change? I have just had a very interesting time exploring a careers resource used in schools, colleges and universities, but which is also great for anyone seeking inspiration for a career change. One of its unique features is the number of videos – over 1000 – of ‘real-life’ workers sharing their experiences […]
Numerical reasoning tests I work at universities on a casual basis, helping out with careers work during particularly busy periods. I have come across students who are gutted because they have failed the numerical reasoning test which forms part of the recruitment process for a graduate scheme place. The test is often one of a battery […]
Career skills matching I’m doing a series of blogs on free online careers resources. Today I have had a look at the Skills Assessment on the National Careers Service site. It is a tool suitable for generating ideas for your first, or next, job. It takes about five minutes and asks you questions about how you like […]
Question: I have had a break from working for five years while my children were little. I would like to go back to work part-time now but feel that my skills are out-of-date. Do you have any suggestions? Judith’s answer: Many people lose some confidence after taking a break from work and it makes it […]
For my next job interview I have to make a five-minute presentation. Will it be OK to use notes? Yes, it will be OK to use notes (unless you have specifically been told you must present without them) but they must be discrete (not a thick pad of A4) and you should be so well-prepared […]
I go along to these on my own but I don’t really make the best of them. Everyone seems to know each other and I feel like a spare part. How can I join in – without feeling like I am butting in – and promote my business? Judith’s answer: These events can be very […]
Question: I don’t think I want to see myself on video when I come for a practice interview – it’s going to make me feel worse – why do you suggest it? Answer: Using the video is entirely optional – some people go for it and some just won’t entertain it! It is up to […]
I am trying to get work for my business but my proposals are being rejected even though I know we could do the job really well? Have you any advice? It is difficult without seeing the proposals myself but a common problem that occurs is that businesses describe themselves and their products (ie. they write about […]
Well, I obviously can’t be an expert in all subjects for university and college courses and all jobs – so I research the technical area and develop my own bank of questions. This enables me to ask you technical questions and gives you practice thinking about how you would answer them, succinctly and with examples. […]
Generally, they are looking for applicants who are enthusiastic, motivated, passionate about their subject and keen to learn. Birmingham University has produced a very interesting and useful video with a number of Admissions Tutors for different subjects on it and they give a good insight into what they look for. (See the link on the […]