Help and advice - Promoting yourself

How to take a good photo

Be confident. People are often photogenic because they like having their picture taken. So when they are in front of a camera they are happy and relaxed. If you are camera shy pretend you like the camera and look at it lovingly. It really does work!

Also smile and look happy, imagine something or someone who makes you happy. By doing so, you'll get a genuine smile. So the secret to taking a good photo is take it on a day when you are feeling confident and good about yourself and let that winning smile shine through!

Review your online presence or footprint

Employeres are increasingly using the internet to research potential candidates you need to be aware of the information that is available about you on the web. Bejant has assembled some usefull advice on Reviewing your online presence.

Portraying a professional image — Applying to companies

Be specific. When completing application forms look at the specified word count and use this as a guide as to the amount of detailed information employers want you to provide. Use this as an opportunity to show your ability to communicate. When giving answers to questions remember to be clear and concise.

Employers are looking for people that have management potential and leadership skills so give examples of ways in which you have worked well in a team and also where you have made a personal contribution. Listing sporting achivements and examples of leadership are also good ways of demonstrating commitment and management potential.

Succeeding at interviews

Be prepared by finding out as much as you can about the organisations you are interested in applying for. Look at their Bejant profile and their website and read any promotional literature that is available to you. By getting an understanding of their corporate culture you will be able to explain why they should hire you.

Portraying a professional image through what you wear to the interview is essential. You are probably going to be feeling nervous before the interview so if you look good and feel smart when you meet your interviewer your confidence and chances of success will be higher.

When you are being interviewed look directly at the other person when you are speaking to them as it is very important that you look attentive. Use positive words to emphasise why you are interested in the job.

Succeeding at assessment

Assessment Centres are now an integral stage of the graduate recruitment process. The Assessment Centre is comprised of tests used to simulate scenarios in the real work environment. A variety of activities may be involved, each of which are specifically designed to test a candidates skills and abilities, enabling the recruiter to evaluate the way in which they interact with fellow candidates and respond to job demands.

The biggest thing that assessors are looking for is your ability to display your strengths. Not everyone is expected to display every required skill. Don't pretend that you are good at something which is not natural for you. Leadership skills are not as vital as it first appears, companies generally believe that leadership skills take a while to grow and develop better from 'on the job' experience'.

Bejant will shortly be providing a full guide on how to suceed at assessment with the Ultmate Guide to Assessment Centres.