How to work with your IT Consultant and have the best possible chance of getting the job you want

You've just seen your dream IT job on the ITS website and you're determined to win it!

First step is to send a CV and telphone the ITS Consultant to discuss why you're interested in the role and what you have done in your career so far.

After a phone conversation, if the Consultant feels you have the skills for this, or any other, role(s), you will be asked to come and meet us.  During this meeting the Consultant will delve further into your experiences to ensure we have an accurate profile of you as well as get a good feel for which of our clients culturally would best suit you.

The relationship between you and your Consultant is key, as you have to believe that we know enough about you to be calling you about jobs you know you will really want.

But don't take any chances; if you really want to get that dream job, take a few moments to read through ITS’ top CV and interview tips.  Your Consultant will advise on this too - the CV must be perfect:

CV Tips

Your CV should be clear and concise. Whatever level of IT job you’re applying for, be it graduate entry or board level director, your CV should never run to more than 3 pages.

Remember, your CV is a sales document, often the only way to get your foot through the door. Don't sound boastful but make sure you highlight areas of significant achievement that are relevant to the role for which you are applying.

Make sure your CV is grammatically correct, with no spelling mistakes. Do not rely on spell checker - it can't tell you about a spelling mistake that still forms a word. E.G. "I like there style", "I completed the role-out", "I gained good experience form it".

It happens all the time.

No jazzy graphics, funky colours or photographs. Keep it clean, clear and classy.  Don't continue sentences onto next pages; in fact try not to go onto the next page unless it is a new heading.

The correct order is:

Name, Profile, Achievements, Key Skills (Tech & Soft), Career History, Interests.

Presentation is vital.

Interview Prep

Prior to interview, research the company as thoroughly as you can. Almost all our clients have their own website.

Research the role and specific job description. Your consultant at ITS will be able to help. Remember, only if you thoroughly understand the role and company culture can you confidently state what you can offer to them. Check out our industry buzz pages to make sure you're up to date with all the major news and issues of the day.

Think about what questions will arise as a result of what you’ve stated on your CV. For instance, if you’ve spent just a short time in a particular job be prepared to explain why, both honestly and positively. If you’ve taken time out to travel, what did you get out of it and how will it stand you in good stead for the future?

On the day of the interview, double check where it is to be held and give yourself plenty of time to get there. It goes without saying that you shouldn't be late, but equally if you find yourself outside the door twenty minutes early go and get a coffee - being too early can be just as bad as being too late. If you are held up, call your ITS consultant in good time so they can contact the client.

Presentation is key - and first impressions do last. Ensure that you are smart in appearance, even if you know the company has a fairly relaxed dress code. You can pull on the jeans and trainers after you’ve got the job!


At interview

Not just at the end of the interview, but during it, ask questions. Not only is it your chance to learn more, but interested people always make interesting people. Many interviewers are proud of the company they work for and enjoy telling candidates about it.

Don’t be the first to bring up salary expectations - certainly not at first interview stage. Be honest and frank but not aggressive in negotiations. Remember, your ITS consultant can do lots of the negotiation on your behalf.


And finally.......

Use us. Pick our brains. Ask us anything you might not want to ask the client directly. We'll arm you with so much knowledge and fill you with just the right amount of confidence to ensure that that job is as good as yours!