We would like to start by thanking representatives from Goldwin Metal Products Ltd., Nordia, Peterborough Humane Society, Peterborough Trent Valley Honda, Crayola, The Keg Steakhouse and Kawartha Guard Service for attending EPC’s 2018 Career Week Employer Panel session. This well-attended event provided tips to job seekers regarding employer expectations in the areas of job prerequisites, the application process and desired traits in a new employee. By using this checklist of employer recommendations, it will help you stay on the right track when trying to stand out as a preferred job candidate to both get and keep the job.

Job requirements:

• Highlight your experience in the industry
• Be flexible regarding work availability
• Highlight industry specialities including experience with machinery and trades knowledge
• Reference communication skills such as your ability to working with other employees
• Be reliable and dependable
•  Be prepared to provide examples of how you have created an excellent “customer service experience”

Application process:

• Highlight what you are capable of doing
• Be able to pass psychometric testing
• Highlight communication skills
• Be truthful about qualifications
• Check for spelling errors on your resume
• Highlight hobbies related to the job and/or a passion for the industry
• Follow up with the employer after applying
• Dress appropriately; pull your pants up!
• Emphasize your top three skills, education and training
• Customize your application for the job and the company
• Complete all sections on an application form; avoid using the term “see resume”
• Fill out the comments section on an application form
• Make your answers relevant
• Be yourself
• Be honest about your former jobs. Let the employer know if “it was not a good fit”
• Understand employer needs including the appropriate times to drop off resumes
• Avoid badmouthing current or former employers
• Be prepared to identify your weaknesses; highlight what you are working on to address challenges
• Conduct company research
• Do not smoke before the interview
• Take responsibility for your actions
• Have an appropriate email address
• Understand what the employer is asking for before applying; tailor your application and resume accordingly
• Close gaps on your resume

Success on the Job:

• Ask questions
• Maintain a clean work environment
• Wear proper attire for company image and safety reasons
• No horseplay
• Be on time
• Take advantage of cross training opportunities
• Demonstrate a positive attitude
• Be a “go-getter”
• Show your ability to multi-task
• Build rapport with team members
• Exceed customer and employer expectations
• Embrace training; be willing to study at home
• Demonstrate common sense on the job
• Be self-sufficient
• Commit to the job; listen and be open to feedback
• Don’t focus on breaks
• Learn about internal, cultural expectations
• Have a clean social media image; be mindful of company policies around social media
• Put away your cell phone at work
• Demonstrate your productivity and ability to “get the job done”

For more assistance with your job search, book an appointment with a Career Counsellor at EPC or check our Workshops & Events section for upcoming dates.