MENTOR YOU CAREERS ADVISOR - THE 2021 THE TRAINEE PACK Understanding Traineeships in NSW
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
THE 2021
MENTOR YOU
CAREERS ADVISOR
THE TRAINEE PACK
Understanding Traineeships in NSW
LAUREN HEAYDON - JOHN CACHIA
First published in 2020 by Mentor You
Acknowledgment – HRM Consulting Services
© Mentor You 2021
The moral rights of the author have been asserted
All rights reserved. Except as permitted under the Australian Copyright Act
1968 no part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system,
communicated or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written
permission.
All inquiries should be made to the Author.
Text design by Bec Thomas Design
Cover design by Bec Thomas Design
Editing by Bec Thomas Design
Disclaimer: The material in this publication is of the nature of general comment
only and does not represent professional advice. It is not intended to provide
specific guidance for particular circumstances, and it should not be relied on
as the basis for any decision to take action or not take action on any matter
which it covers. Readers should obtain professional advice where appropriate,
before making any such decision. To the maximum extent permitted by law, the
author and publisher disclaim all responsibility and liability to any person, arising
directly or indirectly from any person taking or not taking action based on the
information in this publication.
mentoryou.com.au 2
Overview
4 Introduction
5 What is a Traineeship?
6 List of Traineeships recognised in NSW
8 Choosing your Traineeship
11 Leaving school before Year 12
12 Applying for a Traineeship
13 Resume and Cover Letter
25 Interview Preparation
32 Being accepted for the position
36 Award wages and Entitlements
38 Not being accepted for the position
39 Understanding Employee Rights at Work
40 The Formalities of a Traineeship
41 Definition of Qualifications
42 The Benefits of School and Your Future Traineeship
mentoryou.com.au 3
INTRODUCTION
A traineeship is a perfect way to enter the workforce while at the same time gaining a
qualification. This qualification could be a Certificate 2, 3, 4 or a Diploma from TAFE or another
Registered Training Organisation. In many cases a traineeship could be a pathway to University
in future years. That is once the trainee gains an employment history and a Diploma.
There are over 600 types of traineeships recognised in NSW. Recently the NSW Government
has recognised jobs for the future. This may mean that a trainee’s qualification fee may be
subsidised by the NSW Government. The best thing about a traineeship is that a trainee will
gain a nationally recognised qualification, gain an employment history with this qualification
and will be part of a workplace that is in their chosen field.
Choosing and applying for a traineeship may be a difficult process for some students.
It’s important that students interested in becoming a trainee, prepares appropriately for their
future career. Understanding the career path about to be taken, having a well written resume
and cover letter plus preparing for the interview, with your potential employer, is just as
important in a ‘trainee’ environment as with any other occupation.
It’s important that teachers, parents and students understand that there is a disconnection
between a student completing school at any stage and a young person starting their
traineeship. Mentor You have identified this gap in the system. Through this E-book Mentor You
endeavour to prepare students and their parents for their future career should a traineeship be
an option for the future. The ‘Trainee Pack’ E-book was written for the benefit of students and
their parents and may this be the basis for further research. Of course, if additional information
or assistance is required, please do not hesitate in contacting Mentor You.
Lauren Heaydon
Mentor You Owner and Founder
mentoryou.com.au 4
WHAT IS A TRAINEESHIP?
A traineeship is similar to an apprenticeship but slightly different. It can often be completed
in one to two years. A traineeship is work based education and training for a career.
It is obviously not trade based. You get paid while you’re learning and your education
program is shared between your employer and TAFE or a Registered Training Organisation. The
best thing is that you can be any age to complete a traineeship. People as young as 14 and 9
months may be eligible. A traineeship is an option for young people who leave school before
completion of Year 12. It is also suited to Year 12 graduates who would prefer not to study in a
full-time capacity.
There are traineeships in areas like:
• Business Services
• Tourism
• Childcare
• Financial Services
• Screen and Media
• Information and Communications Technology
• Animal Care
• Property Services
• Hospitality
• Arts and Music
• Transport and logistics
• Retail
• Sport and Recreation
In one to two years a trainee will come out with a Certificate 2, 3, 4 or even a Diploma.
Plus, you’ll have the exact skills for your career, an employment history and be part of an
employer’s team. A traineeship can be completed in any occupation that involves a Certificate
2- 4 and Diploma. You can find a traineeship on job search engines like Seek, Jora, Indeed and
Skills Road.
Under the NSW Government Fee Free Traineeship Initiative, NSW trainees that commence their
training on or after 1st January 2020 may be eligible for fee free training. This is a saving of
$1000. Traineeships can be completed at school in Year 10, 11 and 12. The TAFE course can be
counted towards your HSC. Please seek the guidance from your school Careers Advisor and your
local TAFE or Registered Training Organisation if you wish to do this.
Applying for a traineeship is a formal process. There will need to be a cover letter addressing
the criteria, an up to date resume and if shortlisted an interview. Mentor You Careers can help.
We also provide the Career Guidance Program that could really help a young person work out
exactly what types of careers they would be most suited too.
mentoryou.com.au 5
LIST OF TRAINEESHIPS
RECOGNISED IN NSW
The following is a list of traineeship categories and some of the occupations
within these categories. These traineeships are recognised in NSW.
(Source: NSW Government: Training Services NSW)
https://online.training.nsw.gov.au/vtu/vto/vtoEnquiry.do?command=goToVTOSearch
CATEGORY EXAMPLES OF OCCUPATIONS IN THIS CATEGORY
Arts and Entertainment Arts Administration Officer, Project Officer, Community Arts Assistant, TV
and Radio Broadcast Operator, Audio Equipment Repairer, Operators
in digital video, radio and online content creation, Assistant Film and
Television Production Service
Automotive Office Assistant, Receptionist, Service Department Receptionist, Outdoor
Power Equipment Technicians and/or Repair Technicians, Parts Interpreter,
Vehicle Salesperson, Automotive Tyre Fitters, Vehicle Loss Assessor
Building and Construction Builder, Construction Manager, Contract Administrator, Building Estimator,
Building Scheduler, Demolition Leading Hand, Demolition Worker,
Building Sales Consultant, Building Site Supervisor/Manager, Concreter,
Crane Operator, Rigger, Fire Systems Designer, Air Conditioning
Technician, Plumbing Contractor
Communications Digital Content and Graphic e-publisher, Animator, Cloud Computing
Officer, Cyber Support Officer, Digital Media Specialist, IT Support
Officer, Networking Support Officer, Programmer, Systems Administrator,
Web Developer, Game Developer, Network Engineering Optical Network
Specialist, Radio Communications Specialist, Smart Device Installer,
Telecommunications Network Technician
Community Services and Health Aged care Support Worker, Community Service Worker, Support Worker
Disability, Early Childhood Educator, Education Support Officer, Mental
Health Support Officer, Youth Support Worker
Corrective Services Corrections Officer Detention, Corrective Services Officer (Adult and
Youth)
Finance, Insurance and Business Administration Assistant, Legal Receptionist, Human Resources
Services Administrator, Medical Administrator, Customer Service Officer, Customer
Engagement Team Leader, Payroll Officer, Accounts Officer
Food Industry Food and Beverage Processor, Meat Processor, Pharmaceutical
Manufacturer, Aqua Culture Attendant, Seafood Processor, Seafood
Wholesaler
Forest Industry Arboriculture Technician, Farm Forestry Technician, Forestry Technician,
Nursery Technician, Supervisor (Forestry Operations), Tree Planter,
Harvesting Supervisor /Team Leader , Propagation and Stand Health
Supervisor , Tree Farm Supervisor
Furnishings, Light Manufacturing Fashion Designer, Clothing Technician, Digital Printer, Drycleaner,
and Textiles Footwear Producer and Repairer, Furniture Designer and Producer,
Upholsterer, Kitchen Designer, Bathroom Designer
Information Technology Database Development, Database Maintenance Technician, Gaming
Developer, Networking Specialist, Programmer, Systems Administrator ,
Web Developer, Telecommunications Technician, Technical Officer, Team
Leader
Mining Floorperson, Rescue Team Member, Geological Technician, Mining
Technician, Miner, Mine Supervisor/Team Leader, Civil Construction
Worker
mentoryou.com.au 6
LIST OF TRAINEESHIPS
RECOGNISED IN NSW
The following is a list of traineeship categories and some of the occupations
within these categories. These traineeships are recognised in NSW.
(Source: NSW Government: Training Services NSW)
https://online.training.nsw.gov.au/vtu/vto/vtoEnquiry.do?command=goToVTOSearch
CATEGORY EXAMPLES OF OCCUPATIONS IN THIS CATEGORY
Primary Industry Agribusiness Administrator, Bee Keeper, Dairy Farmhand, Farm
Team Leader/Supervisor, Poultry Hand/Stockperson, Rural Mer-
chandiser, Rural Sales Assistant, Organic Farmer/Team Leader/
Supervisor
Process Manufacturing Technical Officer, Sampler, Tester, Plant Operator, Production
Operator, Field Assistants, Drivers, Sample Courier, Laboratory
Technician, Operations Technician
Property Services Fire Protection Officer, Waste Collection Officer, Waste Pro-
cessor, Pest Management Technician, Residential/Commercial
Cleaner, Swimming pool and Spa Maintenance Technician
Public Sector Industry Administration Officer, Contracts Officer, Procurement Officer,
Team Leader, Compliance Officer
Racing Horse Breeder, Stud Farm Operator, Race Horse Trainer,
Stablehand, Racing Administrator, Steward, Track Maintenance
Officer
Retail and Wholesale Makeup Artist, Nail Technician, Hair Salon Assistant, Beauty
Sales Consultant
Sport and Recreation Assistant Sport Coach, Sport Development Officer/
Coordinator, Outdoor Recreation Leader, Fitness Instructor
Tourism Espresso Coffee Machine Operator, Food and Beverage
Attendant , Front Desk Receptionist, Front Office Assistant,
Function Attendant, Function Host, Gaming Attendant , Guest
Service Agent, Housekeeper, Restaurant Host, Senior Bar
Attendant , Waiter, Catering Assistant, Cook, Food Service
Assistant, Tourism Guide, Attendant/Senior Ride Operator in
an attraction or theme park, Booking Agent, Customer Service
Agent, Guide and Salesperson in an Indigenous Cultural
Centre ,Inbound Tour Coordinator, Reservations Sales Agent,
Sales Consultant , Visitor Information Officer.
Transport and Distribution Baggage Handler, Customer Service Ground Operations
Officer, Ramp Operator, Cabin Crew, Flight Attendant,
Commercial Aeroplane pilot, Military aeroplane pilot
Utilities and Electrotechnology Airconditioning and Refrigeration Technician, Electrical and
Refrigeration Repair Technician, Computer Technician, Data/
Telecommunications Technician
mentoryou.com.au 7CHOOSING YOUR
TRAINEESHIP
Choosing a job or a career can be exciting but it can also be very stressful. There is much to
consider when choosing a career. Your likes (and dislikes), personal interests, what your good
at, will you need to go to university or TAFE or can you go straight to work? Then there’s the
income side of it. What type of money can you earn from that job in the future? In addition,
will there be job prospects for this type of career in the future?
Mentor You have a tool that helps young people, along with their parents, consider future job/s
and career/s. The tool asks a young person to list up to five daydream jobs. These daydream
jobs are those that the young people may have thought of in the past or that they think they
may like to do.
The program itself incorporates the ‘Self Directed Search [SDS]’ (questionnaire) which
requires the completion of the [SDS] online Assessment tool.
This online assessment is designed to help the young person explore career options by
matching interests and abilities to particular occupations.
This process looks at six (6) particular groups or personality types:-
1. Realistic: this type has mechanical [process] abilities with less emphasis on social and/or
interpersonal capabilities.
2. Investigative: this type is more inclined to have mathematical and scientific skills rather
than promoting leadership qualities.
3. Artistic: this type is artistic and/or creative and can be good with music and writing,
however may not be satisfied with clerical or administrative functions.
4. Social: this type has good social and interpersonal skills but is not so focussed on
mechanical or scientific abilities.
5. Enterprising: this type has leadership and speaking abilities more so than scientific
capabilities.
6. Conventional: this type has clerical and arithmetic abilities yet lacks an artistic flair.
After the online questionnaire is completed a Mentor You Career Counsellor analyses the
results and compiles a report based on the identified personality characteristics. These
personal characteristics are then matched to suitable roles and compared to the Daydream
Jobs. Each interest type has particular characteristics… the table below gives particular
information about these different types.
mentoryou.com.au 8CHOOSING YOUR
TRAINEESHIP
Realistic Investigative Artistic
Working with hands, Reading and thinking
Using artistic and
Most likes tools equipment and about solutions to
creative talents;
apparatus; problems;
Becoming famous in
Making technical Contributing to scientific performing arts, having
Life goals contribution to Science; theory and knowledge; written work published or
producing original art;
Intelligence- Logic Imagination, creativity,
Values Self-Control and Honesty; Achievement and beauty and self-
Knowledge; expression;
Maths, scientific and Artistic ability and
Sees self as having Mechanical Ability;
research ability; originality;
Leading or persuading Routine activities and
Dislikes Human Relations;
others; office work;
Most competent Mechanics; Science; Arts;
Social Enterprising Conventional
Teaching or helping Holding a position of Keeping records and
Most likes others; power; doing computations;
Helping others Financial success – Being
– Sacrificing for others – independent in Public Producing a lot of work
Life goals Competent Teacher or Affairs – Having Executive and being accurate;
Therapist; responsibility;
Equity – Self Respect – Ambition – Freedom – Comfortable life,
Values Helpfulness – Forgiveness Financial success- Risk accuracy, politeness and
– Freedom; taking; thriftiness;
Understanding of Others Clerical ability and
Sees self as having – Cooperativeness;
Popularity – Leadership;
conservative orientation;
Mechanical and Technical Scientific or Theoretical
Dislikes activities; problems;
Artistic activities;
Most competent Human Relations; Leadership; Business;
mentoryou.com.au 9CHOOSING YOUR
TRAINEESHIP
In making decisions about future career planning, it is important to understand whether the
occupation choice is the right one, as well, consideration must be given to ensure that a more
appropriate or desirable occupation has not been overlooked.
That means, the more that can be learned from the individual and the respective work
environment, the more likely a career can be targeted. Therefore, the individual is motivated to
perform well in this role.
The Mentor You Careers Guidance Report provides links to access the Federal Governments
‘Job Outlook’ website. This provides the general job-related information, including:
• Position Overview,
• Tasks,
• Prospects,
• Earnings, and
• Training,
All of the above is good information to consider as it will help individuals better understand
the Industry and specifics of the role. It is also important that you contact the relevant industry
bodies, to discuss specifics so as to develop a more detailed understanding.
Click here to access the Mentor You Careers Guidance Program for individuals
https://mentoryou.com.au/mentor-you-careers/
mentoryou.com.au 10LEAVING SCHOOL
BEFORE YEAR 12
The Fairwork Ombudsman states that, ‘The age that you can start work depends on the state
or territory that you work in. The minimum age you can start work applies to all workers,
including those starting an apprenticeship and traineeship.’ Please check the Fairwork
Ombudsman website for all states and territory legislation for the age of leaving school -
https://www.fairwork.gov.au/find-help-for/young-workers-and-students/what-age-can-i-start-
work?fbclid=IwAR2XbaS18EqoTdlY_-yv-8XQdic7LN6Ew43UC_SXhS52lPHuKuLhb0bjclI
In NSW students can leave at the end of Year 9 or before the end of Year 10 to commence
a full-time traineeship or apprenticeship as long as an application for exemption from
enrolment at school with their school principal has been lodged.
If a student wishes to leave and has not completed Year 9 then they may only do so under
extraordinary conditions. They must lodge an application of exemption with the Executive
Director for the government school the child attends or for Non-Government schools,
Child Protection Services, NSW Department of Education.
Young people who have completed Year 10 but are not yet 17 may leave school as long as
they are enrolled in full time study or full-time employment or a combination of the two –
apprenticeship or traineeship.
For a complete overview of the policy and procedures for the age of young people leaving
school, please see Training Services NSW https://www.training.nsw.gov.au/apprenticeships_
traineeships/policy/policy_procedures/school_leaving_age.html?fbclid=IwAR2qN3j3YMC9bKn
uedQ2PPKLOkj5kTpYBre2jZ-rpVMJm8cqPXkd5QABL_o
It’s important to note that some employers may request in their job description for a trainee
to have their driver’s licence or their own vehicle. With this being stated ‘some’ employers are
reluctant to hire someone with Year 10 completion as they may not be old enough to possess
a driver’s licence at this stage. It’s important that young people and parents acknowledge
that it is up to the trainee to get themselves to and from their place of work. Access to public
transport or a halfway point for a pick up by another employee is essential if the young trainee
does not have their licence or their own vehicle.
mentoryou.com.au 11APPLYING FOR
YOUR TRAINEESHIP
There are a number of ways to find and apply for a traineeship
1. Filling out online applications and submitting a scanned copy of a current resume and
application letter directly to the recruiter or employer that advertised the position on
their company site.
2. Networking – speaking to family and friends that own local small businesses to see if
they are employing future trainees. Also speaking with your friends who already have
completed a trainee position, and asking if their employer is looking to employ more
trainees in the future.
3. Physically walking into a small business resume in hand, with lots of confidence and a if yes,
great! If not, thank them for their time and asking to be considered if something becomes
available in the future.
4. Registering with Group Training Organisations as well as checking their jobs boards.
Click here for a full list of registered NSW Group Training Organisations -
https://www.training.nsw.gov.au/gto/contacts.html
5. Checking the Positions and Casual Work Vacant in the classifieds section of the local
newspaper.
6. Checking vacancies listed on internet job sites, such as Seek, Jora and Indeed.
It’s important that you follow the prompts and apply directly to the email address
requested.
7. Checking the ‘job opportunities boards’ on Social Media, such as Facebook.
The Do’s of Applying for a Traineeship
• Have confidence and a smile on your face
• Speak to your parents, teacher or mentor for guidance and advice
• Be coached as to what to say to a potential employer
• Ensure that online applications have been addressed to the appropriate manager
• Ensure online applications have been proofread and all documentation is attached
• Ensure your Social Media accounts are set to private or delete content that your potential
employer may deem inappropriate
The Don’t’s of Applying for a Traineeship
• Get your parents to inquire on your behalf
• Get your parents to complete online applications
• Get your parents to comment to online social media advertisements
• Get your parents to network for you
• Get your parents to drop off your resume
mentoryou.com.au 12RESUME AND
COVER LETTER
What is the resume?
A resume is a document that tells people (recruiters and prospective employers) about the
individual. Professionally it gives information about an individual’s employment background
along with information about what training and development has been completed.
What is in a good resume?
A good resume doesn’t have too much information. It doesn’t come with colour paper
and photographs. A good resume contains specific information about the individual; as an
employee and the professional work performed.
A good resume also contains information about achievements. Achievements are those tasks
or functions performed by an individual, at work, where they’ve actually provided value to the
organisation.
The kind of achievements that should be promoted show where an individual has:-
- saved the company money,
- introduced a new procedure, and
- saved waste.
All in all, the achievement statement shows where the individual has made a difference.
Achievement statements are a very strong statement in a resume.
What a good resume also contains is information about an individual’s education.
For example, the resume would show details of current courses and courses prior to that.
Other information includes associations the individual is a member of as well as personal
interests.
Ideally that is all; a resume should not be as long as fifteen pages. A good resume is roughly
five pages maximum. Therefore the resume is a short, quick synopsis about the individual as a
professional and it’s only about the individual as a professional.
What does a first resume look like?
Starting with a blank sheet of paper, the first thought most have is “what can I put on a resume
that’s going to attract the attention of the employer?”
A 15 year old student believes they have no skills and no experience, and they ask themselves
“What can I do?” The good news is that they have a lot of skills and experiences!
mentoryou.com.au 13RESUME AND
COVER LETTER
Perhaps individuals overlook the skills and experiences they develop overtime without even
realising, for example;
- Volunteer work,
- Working in the School canteen,
- Working in the canteen at weekend sport,
And from these positions you could promote the following skills and experiences;
- Customer Service skills,
- Supervising,
- Cash handling,
- Receiving and storing products,
- Opening and closing the canteen,
- Organisational and communication skills.
It is important for the individual not to discount the knowledge and experiences gained from
this type of work; it is a very valuable step in developing professional skills.
Through volunteer work, through helping out with sporting clubs, through helping out with
other associations, an individual will have a number of skills that you can put onto your resume.
What is also overlooked is the extra curricular work performed at school, for example;
- A member of the school sporting team,
- Student representative bodies,
- Assisting in the School office,
- Assisting in the School library,
So when preparing a resume, it’s important to remember, that it’s all about self promotion…
this is not to be arrogant, but simply about letting others know what useful and appropriate
skills and experiences an individual possesses.
Preparing the Resume
The aim of the resume is to provide the recipient (i.e. recruiter or prospective employer), details
of the individual’s professional skills and work experience; and thus becomes the first point of
contact designed to get a foot in the door and into the interview. The resume is structured to
contain chronological (work and professional history) details.
The body of a resume details an individual’s employment history… this is displayed in reverse
chronological order. This means the resume starts at the current role, and then work backwards
through the individuals work history.
mentoryou.com.au 14RESUME AND
COVER LETTER
Typically, the information supplied is as follows: -
- Name of the organization,
- Brief description of who the organization is and the products or services provided,
- Position Title - brief description of the general purpose of the role,
- Responsibilities or duties of the role,
At each interval (i.e. between each role) insert an Achievement Statement. Whilst the resume
provides technical details of an individuals work history, the achievement statement provides
information about projects and/or initiatives that have been delivered to the organisation by the
individual. Achievements show employers what extra tasks the individual has performed in the
past and help demonstrate transferable skills, therefore what type of person the individual is.
The achievement statement helps potential employers assess what the individual is most likely
to be able to do for them, and how well the individual may fit into the business.
Achievement statements generally cover initiatives where you have contributed to and/or
delivered: -
- Programs that have saved money,
- Programs that have increased productivity, and
- Programs that have reduced waste,
Achievements are therefore an activity or initiative the individual has completed to make
the company operate more effectively and/or more efficiently.
Once the individual has detailed their complete work history, the individual can then list more
personal information, such as;
- Educational details: –
- tertiary qualifications,
- training or professional development,
- Additional Training (short courses),
- Professional Associations,
- Personal Interests,
- Referees,
Therefore, using the above information the resume will be designed to enable maximum
effect in the market.
Resume Template/Proforma
The following ‘Standard Resume Template’ below can be used as a starting point for creating
a resume.
mentoryou.com.au 15RESUME -
PROFORMA
CONTACT DETAILS
Name:
Home Phone: Mobile:
EMPLOYMENT HISTORY
Company Name:
Company Description:
Start Date: End Date:
Position:
Responsibilities:
Achievements:
EMPLOYMENT HISTORY (cont…)
Company Name:
Company Description:
Start Date: End Date:
Position:
Responsibilities:
Achievements:
mentoryou.com.au 16RESUME -
PROFORMA
EDUCATION/QUALIFICATIONS
Institution:
Qualification:
Completed:
Institution:
Qualification:
Completed:
Institution:
Qualification:
Completed:
ADDITIONAL TRAINING
PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS
PERSONAL INTERESTS
REFEREES
Available upon request
mentoryou.com.au 17THE DO’S AND DON’TS
OF RESUMES
The Do’s of resume’s
• Do have a concise resume.
• Do have specific information about current work history.
• Do have specifics about the work that completed.
• Do have information about the company(s) worked with/for, as some businesses
aren't well known to the public.
• Do have good information about achievement statements.
• Do have good and current information about your education.
• Do have references/referees and make sure that access to referees is controlled.
• Do make sure your resume is about you as professional.
• Do have four or five pages stapled at the top corner, which is easy to submit or as the
way it's going now. If your resume is submitted online, it will be just a scanned document.
Small scanned documents are easier.
• Do think of the work that you performed and making sure that that work is relevant to
the job you're applying for.
The Don’ts of resume’s
• Don’t get caught in the trap that the resume has to be a big wordy document.
Being concise and precise with information is much better. Remember, the document
is going to somebody who’s going to read it and read maybe fifty others. It’s important
that the recruiter (or prospective employer) looks at the resume and sees that it is concise
and it has all the information they want.
• Don’t have coloured paper.
• Don’t have photographs.
• Don’t have information which is irrelevant to the job.
• Don’t include driver’s license unless it’s specific requirement of the job.
• Don’t include passport information unless it’s specific requirement of the job.
• Don’t include personal information (i.e. that is not work related).
• Don’t include personal activities (i.e. social activities).
• Don’t fill it full of information, which is confusing.
• Don’t have staples all over the resume.
• Don’t put the resume into a binder.
• Don’t put information that isn’t relevant to the job, but overall make sure that your
resume reports you in a positive way.
mentoryou.com.au 18THE DO’S AND DON’TS
OF RESUMES
Definition of Reference and Referee
When an individual prepares the resume, consideration should be given to whether the
individual has a written reference or should referees be provided. The following will define
what the two of them are.
The Written Reference… A written reference is better known as a character reference.
The person who would provide such a written reference would be somebody within the
family group or your social circle. It is a written reference that talks about an individual with
respect to their character.
The Referee… A referee is the person who is nominated as being the person the recruiter
(or prospective employer) can contact to ask specific ‘work related’ questions about the
individual.
So in summary, one is a written document, and one is a link to a person that people can
call and ask information of.
Should an individual be using references and/or a referee?
When an application is submitted to a recruiter or prospective employer, consideration
should be given to whether it’s best to provide a written reference or nominate referees?
Regardless, whether a written reference is submitted, or a referee is nominated, what should
always occur is that either the reference of the referee will say something good about the
individual. The need to have a reference or referee has slightly diminished over the years
because recruiters and/or employers know that individuals will provide a good reference.
If an individual submits a written reference with their resume, that’s fine. However, when it
comes time to identify referees (preferably two (2) referees), the recommendation is always
not to list them in the resume, instead simply state ‘Referees available upon request.’
This allows the individual to control who is going to be the referee.
It is up to the individual, you can submit a written reference if you’d like, or you can hold
off and have referees available, but please control who people call.
mentoryou.com.au 19COVER
LETTERS
The cover letter is a very important letter that is sent to the employer that not only
introduces the individual but also explains what position the individual is applying for.
The cover letter also advises the recruiter or prospective employer that an application
and resume has been submitted in favour of the advertised position.
The key purpose of the cover letter is to provide the recruiter or prospective employer with
a brief overview of the individual’s professional skills and experiences. At this point, it is
important to link skills and experiences to the selection criteria of the advertised position,
for example:-
Must have excellent interpersonal and communication skills
A possible response could be:-
Strong communication skills, both written and verbal coupled with a bright and enthusiastic
attitude towards working with customer and colleagues.
However as this is an introductory letter, it is good manners to acknowledge that the recruiter/
employer is given the application due consideration, and so let the recruiter/employer know
that their time taken to review the application is appreciated.
Ensure the cover letter is formatted correctly, and the language used is not passive, rather it
is appropriate for the person who will receive it. As this is an important letter ensure that the
letter is proofread by a family member or friend just to make sure it makes sense and that
grammar, spelling and punctuation on both the cover letter and resume are 100% correct.
Enclosed is a cover letter template that can be used to start drafting the cover letter.
mentoryou.com.au 20COVER LETTER AND
RESUME FOR A JOB
ADVERTISEMENT
The following is a job advertisement for a traineeship at a local real estate agent.
Traineeship Opportunity To Join BELLE St George
Belle Property has built its reputation of excellence in customer service and outstanding results.
Our team strive to consistently deliver for our clients and believe that great people make a great
business.
Belle Property St George is looking for highly motivated professionals with a background in
Real Estate sales to join our 1 team located in 3 offices covering the entire St George area.
Offering exceptional leadership, our office is looking to grow, mentor and develop an amazing team
of like-minded individuals.
Potentially you may be learning the ropes as you go and looking for a new beginning, or alternatively,
you may be honing the skills that you already possess, looking for a fresh start and rewarding
challenge.
If you would like to be part of a growing, award winning team in a workplace that is friendly and
dedicated to excellence then please submit your application to stgeorge@belleproperty.com
Only shortlist candidates will be contacted for an interview.
mentoryou.com.au 21EXAMPLE
COVER LETTER
The following is an example of a cover letter and resume that addresses this advertisement.
Please note that this is an example to help you for your future cover letters and resume. It’s important
that your personal cover letter and resume reflect you as an individual. It’s important that you do not
copy and paste these directly. The cover letter and resume are to help you with future applications.
24 October 2020
Kristina Lee
Principal
Belle Property St George
2 Montgomery Street
KOGARAH NSW 2217
Email: stgeorge@belleproperty.com
Dear Kristina
Position: Real Estate Sales - Traineeship
I am writing to apply for the above position as advertised on Seek.com.
Please find enclosed my resume which contains details of my skills and experience.
Please find enclosed my CV which contains details of my skills and experience.
An overview of these skills and experiences include:
• Well-developed Customer Service and Sales experience gained within organisations
whose focus is on delivering quality products and services.
• Demonstrated experience as a skilled, organised and detail oriented professional managing
the daily operational aspects of my work environment, which includes some team leadership.
• Extensive experience with providing effective and appropriate Customer Service practices,
both face to face and via the phone.
• Hands-on Business Administration skills and experiences developed on-the-job which
are supported by structured learning through TAFE.
• Broad experience in regards to implementing and maintaining company Policies and Procedures
ensuring that my work and advice to customers and colleagues reflect these.
• Ability to foster and maintain good working relationships with colleagues, clients and industry
representatives, and building upon those relationships to arrange and provide positive outcomes
and experiences.
I appreciate the time you have taken to review my application. I look forward to the opportunity to meet
with you and further discuss my skills and experience.
Yours faithfully
Anna Brown
mentoryou.com.au 22EXAMPLE
RESUME
Anna Brown
0434 567 123 annaB23 @gmail.com
Objective
To further develop my experience in the real estate industry, in order to gain qualification
and to one day start my own agency.
Skills
I have developed very good communication and organisational skills through my part-time
employment. As a result of school/work experience I have demonstrated excellent practical skills
in sales and customer service as well as having the ability to efficiently and effectively complete
work tasks.
EMPLOYMENT HISTORY
February 2019 – Present ABC Real Estate
Sales Assistant – Real Estate - Casual
Responsibilities:
• Provide support and assistance to Real Estate Agents, with respect to:-
> Listing details of land or buildings for sale and arrange the advertising of properties,
> Advising vendors of sales and marketing options such as sale by auction,
> Assessing buyers’ needs and locate properties for their consideration,
> Taking prospective buyers to inspect properties,
> Arranging legal agreements between vendors and buyers,
> Arranging finance and insurance,
• Manage correspondence, telephone contacts, and incoming mail, including confidential materials.
Administer e-mails, send and forward to appropriate people,
• Type and/or compose letters, meeting agendas, meeting minutes, purchase orders, contracts,
memos, contracts, brokerage agreements, letters of intent as directed,
• Collate all lease documents and retain in individual tenant lease files, distribute lease documents
to respective landlord and tenant accordingly,
• Work in a collaborative and team manner,
• Other duties and directed by Supervisor.
Jan 2018 – Mar 2019 Woolworth’s Group
Customer Service Representative – Woolworths Supermarkets
• Deliver an efficient front-end store operation by serving customers and processing payment via
cash, EFTPOS and gift card
• Operate a range of equipment including electronic cash register, PA system, switchboard, and
computer systems
mentoryou.com.au 23EXAMPLE
RESUME
• Balance and reconcile cash till at the end of each shift including resolving and reporting
discrepancies
• Manage the return/refund process including identifying customer’s reason for return/refund,
investigating the root cause and demonstrating a sound judgement in order to support the
decision of accepting or declining the request
• Build strong rapport and relationships with customers, while managing enquiries, engagement,
and complaints
• Professionally answer and handle inbound and outbound phone calls, including transferring
calls between departments
• Undertake housekeeping activities, ensuring the front-end environment is presentable,
hygienic and safe at all times
• Liaise with colleagues in relations to operational issues, organisational changes,
and customer’s requests
• Comply with relevant organisational policies, procedures, and guidelines
EDUCATION
TAFE NSW – Gymea College Certificate III in Real Estate Practice – Completed 2019
High School -
Higher School Certificate - 2019
• Subjects: Mathematics, English, Business Studies, PDHPE, Languages (Mandarin) and Music
ADDITIONAL TRAINING
• On the Job Training – Assistant Night Shift Supervisor (Woolworths)
• Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint
• Social Media Management and Scheduling
AVAILABILITY
Available for full time work, weekdays and weekends
REFEREES
Available upon request
mentoryou.com.au 24INTERVIEW
PREPARATION
1. Personal Contact
This is really important. Following the submission of an application for a particular role, a good
idea would be to make a phone call to the company to perhaps inquire about the role with a
little bit more detail or even to follow up that the application has been received.
It’s really important to understand that when by making [personal] contact with anyone within
the company; this is essentially like being interviewed.
This is one of the biggest mistakes that people make at this point, as perhaps their language
isn’t appropriate, or they are a little bit too quiet or too reserved. They might mumble or they
might speak in some sort of slang or a language that isn’t appropriate for the role.
It is important to remember that when applying for a role or making personal contact that the
language used and/or what is being said ensures the company makes a good assessment.
It doesn’t matter if the conversation is with the receptionist, to the manager directly, they will
form their opinions based on that contact.
Ensure when making contact, either over the phone, or face to face, when delivering a resume,
this is the best opportunity to make a good impression. Personal contact is important and is as
well received as any formal interview can be.
2. Research
This is a fundamental for any interview... when preparing for an interview, it’s important to
actually understand the company and the position applied for.
Given that the internet is so widely used, and that information is so easily accessible nowadays,
it makes perfect sense that researching the company becomes a very important step in the
process.
For example, an application is submitted with “Company X” but little is known about this
Company, or at least a perception of who they might be has been formed; but it’s not until
the company is researched that more is understood. This company may be part of a larger
organization; this company may be part of a group of companies that holds a particular interest.
The alternative, of course, is that this company is one that operates in an environment that has
a a poor reputation or produces items that are against individual views.
So one of the first and very important steps is to research the company, and then once the
company and its products are known, a decision can be made as to whether to continue with
seeking a role with them… this level of knowledge is great.
The next step is to understand more about the requirements of the role. When Human
Resources advertise the role on ‘Jobs’ websites (i.e. Seek, Jora, Indeed), or onto other job
boards, information is put in there trying to help potential applicants understand who the
company is, but more so what is the actual requirements of the role are.
mentoryou.com.au 25INTERVIEW
PREPARATION
It doesn’t matter what the role is, and having an ‘idea’ of the requirements of the role isn’t
enough. The tasks of [say] a Barista or a Driver or an Administration Officer may seem obvious,
however it’s really important to appreciate more of the fundamentals of the role, some of the
nuts and bolt issues, the tasks, the really boring stuff that happens in a role because it might
sound very glossy on an ad.
Understanding the role completely ensures preparedness for the basics (i.e cleaning, stacking
boxes, filing, etc…). When it comes time attend the interview, there are no surprises, there will
be no disappointments, there will be no embarrassing conversations regarding expectations.
3. What to take to the interview?
Something that must remembered as part of preparing to attend interviews, is that it’s not wise
to arrive at any interview, empty handed.
Throughout the interview, questions will most likely be asked by the recruiter and/or employer
about the information within the application. Knowing this, will ensure that a copy of the
complete application (i.e. resume and cover letter), are available for review.
Being able to refer to specifics within both documents will ensure that questions can be
answered properly and any uncertainty can be clarified immediately. It will not be a problem
having the resume and application letter on the interview table ready, just in case.
Next it is also important to take the actual application, for example, the job vacancy
advertisement, along to the interview. This is important because that will allow a double check
of specifics about the role while waiting for the interview to commence, and so be better
prepared.
All of the above needs to be carried in something to keep it all together. Therefore holding all
this information in a folder would be a good option. Walking into an interview with loose pieces
of paper is never an option, because all it takes is for one document to fall to the floor, and
everyone’s attention goes to that instead of the interview.
4. What to wear to the interview?
The best ‘rule of thumb’ in these situations, is to wear clothing to an interview that is
appropriate for the position, for example,
• If applying for a Retail Sales position, then wearing pants (not jeans) and a collared
shirt and flat shoes would be appropriate,
• if applying for an office based administration position, then wearing pants (not jeans)
and a collared shirt, and maybe a jacket would be appropriate. For such a role shoes
should be more formal than flats,
mentoryou.com.au 26INTERVIEW
PREPARATION
• If applying for an apprenticeship, then wearing pants (not jeans) and a collared shirt and
flat shoes would be appropriate. As this is a casual job then it would be suggested to wear
smart casual while avoiding denim jeans.
So what is not considered appropriate for interviews?
• Short skirts,
• Active Wear,
• T-Shirts,
• Thongs or Sandals,
• Caps, Hats, Beanies,
• Sunglasses,
Depending on which company the interview is with, a pair of jeans may be appropriate,
especially if the role is in a Retail store where jeans are part of the dress code. This is where
good research will provide a guide to what is appropriate and what is not.
Regardless of what’s worn, ensuring personal presentation and hygiene is also very important.
5. Non-Verbal Communication
This is perhaps an unusual language for someone to use and for individuals to understand,
so think of it as communication without using words.
When attending an interview, recruiter and/or employers will be listening carefully to the
answers provided and while recruiters and/or employers are asking their questions,
they will also be looking at how the individual actually present themselves.
The section above identified what is considered appropriate clothing to wear for an interview.
That’s part of that whole communication process, however other non-verbal communication
includes:-
• Hand gestures, some people can’t help but use their hands to express themselves.
• Hand shakes, a firm hand shake can tell a lot about a person, it gives the interviewer
a feeling of you being confident and you shaking their hand and you wanting to really
talk to them.
• Eye contact, if they gave money out for every time an applicant spent more time looking at
the top corners of the wall instead of directly at the recruiter, there’d be no need to work.
A trick for individuals is to look right at the person’s forehead that gives a focus point
without actually staring and won’t make anyone feel uncomfortable.
• Posture (Body Language), slouching in chairs is not only uncomfortable, but it suggests
a person’s attitude is too relaxed, and may suggest they’re not interested.
mentoryou.com.au 27INTERVIEW
PREPARATION
It’s very important to present to the interviewer an engagement with the whole process.
The above non-verbal communication is very important to be aware of; however there is
another matter to be mindful of and that is the mobile phone.
Throughout the interview, the mobile phone is not needed, so it should be turned off, and put
away in a bag or pocket. Placing the phone on silent isn’t an alternative, as it will vibrate, it will
be a distraction, so the phone MUST be switched off.
The recruiter and/or employer wants to conduct an interview to find the most suitable
candidate to fill the vacancy, and will have a hard enough time doing that, so to make their
task a little easier turn off the phone, even when in reception (or a waiting room). Get rid of
the phone, it is not needed.
Worrying about what friends are posting on Snapchat before the interview, will most likely
lead to a lack of concentration and poor communication during the interview. The distraction
occurs when the attention is placed on what other people (i.e. friends) are doing; this is not
what the job’s all about. Those non-verbal cues are very important.
Remember the purpose of the interview is to focus on securing the position, and so it’s best
to push the phone aside, leave it in a pocket, or bag or even better, in the car maybe.
Be very, very mindful that the interviewer will listen carefully to what is being said throughout
the interview; they will also be watching how applicants present themselves, so remove all
distractions and focus on the job at hand, the interview.
6. Interview Structure
When attending an interview, it is possible the structure will be one of four styles of interviews.
1. One on One interview, this is where one representative of the company (i.e. Human
Resources) interviews, candidates, in the first instance,
2. Panel interviews, this is where the direct manager, the human resources representative
and an independent officer interview candidates at the one sitting,
3. Group interviews, is where a company will invite a group of candidates into the interview
and run the interview more like a group discussions, these are commonly used in
Customer Service roles, and
4. Assessment centres, where the company invites candidates during the interview process
to, as a group, work together on a particular task, or series of tasks.
Ideally, the recruiter and/or employer will make mention of the style of interview that will
occur, however this does not happen all the time. Being aware of the different styles of
interviews helps with preparation.
mentoryou.com.au 28INTERVIEW
PREPARATION
Regardless of the style of interview, being prepared and ensuring appropriate presentation
and communication is most important. Be aware that some interviews may be quite
structured where specific questions are asked and a format is followed. Such direct
questioning will seek to obtain information relating to the candidates education, work
history and key achievements. This is a somewhat easy process to follow.
However, and as was briefly described in the Group interview process, the interview may
be run in an ‘unstructured’ way and instead of specific questions being asked, a group
discussion may be used. This can be a difficult interview for the candidates because it
isn’t structured; they weren’t asked direct questions nor were they required to give direct
answers, it was simply a group discussion.
Candidates should be prepared when they attend an interview, more often than not, it will
be a direct interview technique where the interviewer will be asking a series of questions
about relating to the candidates background, history, technical skills, education and so
forth. However candidates should also be prepared for a recruiter and/or employer to
‘throw a curve ball’ and ask about general information or news items (current in the media),
something that candidates may not quite prepared for.
Note that the interview styles aren’t designed as a trick, rather they are designed to help
the interviewers look at candidates in a particular environment.
7. The three elements of an interview
Recruiters and/or employers will use the following three elements to assess a candidate’s
suitability for the vacant position:-
1. Technical Fit… does the candidate have the technical skills and abilities to actually
perform the tasks of the role,
2. Motivational Fit… why would the candidate ‘jump out of bed’ to work for this company
in this position, and
3. Cultural Fit… will the candidate fit into the culture of the business and their particular
work environment.
These are key areas for a recruiter and/or employer to consider. This will help them assess
whether the candidate can not only perform the duties of the role as well as whether the
candidate will be happy working with the company.
8. Interview Questions
When in an interview the recruiter and/or employer will no doubt ask a number of questions
to help them assess the candidate’s suitability for the position.
To commence the interview the recruiter and/or employer will ask an open question.
This particular question will allow the candidate to do most of the talking, and may be
useful as a starting point for the interview, also known as the ‘Ice Breaker’ question.
mentoryou.com.au 29INTERVIEW
PREPARATION
Besides the open question, typically there are two (other) types of questions asked by
the recruiter and/or employer, these being closed and behavioural interview questions.
Closed questions are usually direct questions that result in a Yes/No answer. They can be
effective in having the candidate confirm a fact and/or stop the candidate from getting off
track. Examples of closed questions could be:-
- Do you have a Fork Lift Operators Ticket?
- Have you ever worked in a Customer Service environment?
The down side of closed questions is that the candidate isn’t really allowed to expand
upon the answers provided.
Using Behavioural Interview questions, the recruiter and/or employer will be looking to
establish where the candidate can explain situations where he/she has performed certain
tasks and how they have acted throughout. For example; in the case where the target
role requires handling customer complaints, the recruiter and/or employer would collect
examples of the candidates experience(s) with just such a situation.
Behavioural interviews questions usually start with…
- “Tell me a time when…” or
- “Explain a situation where you had to…”
- “In your current role, how do you assess…”
It is a view that based on the assumption that further performance will reflect past
performance, questions can be asked that require the candidate to demonstrate,
with actual examples, her/his knowledge or skills in a specific situation.
9. Asking Questions
Finally, it’s good to ask questions of the recruiter and/or employer, because the interview
is a two-way communication process. The interviewer will ask a series of questions of the
applicant to gain a better understanding of their fit for the position, so why wouldn’t the
applicant ask questions of the recruiter and/or employer to learn more about the role, and
the company.
mentoryou.com.au 30INTERVIEW
PREPARATION
The candidate should be prepared to ask questions of the recruiter and/or employer.
The sorts of questions that could be asked include:-
- What is the culture of the business?
- What will be expected of the person in this role?
- What would the regular shift pattern be?
- Who does the position report to?
- Is there any initial training and/or induction into the role?
As much as this is a very important question to ask, it is perhaps best not to ask what the
pay will be early on in the interview process. There will be an appropriate time when this
can be asked.
By asking questions it shows a definite interest in the role, and asking questions will provide
a good amount of detail to make a decision on whether this is the right job.
10. Reference Checks
Prior to making an offer, a recruiter and/or employer may check the individual’s references.
It is important the individual is happy for the recruiter and/or employer to contact their
referees.
Reference checking is a very effective method of assessing an individual’s behaviour and
previous work performance and of course, their suitability for the role applied for.
Structured reference checking should be regarded as an integral part of the selection
process and not seen as an ‘add-on’.
mentoryou.com.au 31You can also read
