Candidate tips
Here are some quick tips on what we are looking for in your application and how you can prepare yourself to maximise your opportunity in securing that role.
Your resume and cover letter
Your resume is your opportunity to promote your qualifications, skills, knowledge and professional outlook to us. It will describe your achievements, experiences, you as a person and most importantly, how you’re the best candidate for the role.
Firstly, make sure your resume is well-structured and presented in a logical order ensuring all information is up-to-date and current. Second, make sure your resume is clear and concise.
Plan and prepare your resume to present your most current experience, education and skills that will showcase your ability to meet the requirements of the position.
To demonstrate, your resume might include the following:
| Personal details |
Central to every application. We want to know who you are: list your full name, your personal contact details and your work status i.e. Australian citizen, student visa. You do not need to tell us your date of birth, marital status or how many children you have. |
| Career objective |
A personal statement regarding your career objectives and why you are applying for this role is a great way to communicate your ambitions and aspirations specific to the role you have applied for. |
| Education |
Provide details of your qualifications, including the institution and the year of completion. |
| Employment history |
Compile an employment overview relevant to the role you are applying for. In date order, starting with your most recent job, outline the following: company and company summary, job title, dates of employment including the month, key responsibilities and achievements. |
| Additional skills and training |
This section should include any additional skills or training that might support your application. |
| Referees | You do not need to include referee details on your application however you should prepare by identifying who they are, ensuring that you have current contact details for them and that you have requested their permission to be your referee. Referees should include your most recent employer and leader. |
A strong cover letter should be coherent and articulate. Make sure you state the position you are applying for, why you are applying for the role, and why you think you are the best candidate for the job.
Your cover letter should be tailored to the role you are applying for. Address the key selection criteria by highlighting your skills, talents and experiences.
Preparing for your interview
Interviewing for a new role can be daunting. However, it is important to note that the interview process is not only for the employer, it is also an opportunity for you to find out more about MLA and the position you have applied for.
Ensure that you have prepared for your interview to give you the best opportunity. Your preparation may include:
| Research | Take the time to look at the information that is available on our website and the position description to familiarise yourself with MLA, what’s happening in our industry and the services we offer. |
| First impression counts |
Everything counts in a first impression. How you present yourself is significant and can be as influential as what you say. Take the time to consider how these factors can enhance your overall first impression. |
| Be prepared | Every interview will include both behavioural and technical based questions in order to assess your skill levels and fit to the role. Be prepared to discuss your achievements that are relevant to the role, as well as your areas for development. When responding to questions, consider the STAR technique by:
Situation – briefly describe the situation
Task – describe the task you were required to complete
Action – describe the action you took in response to the situation, what was your involvement, timeframe, who did you have to work with etc.
Result – describe the result of the action taken. What would you have done differently? |
| Question time |
This is your opportunity to find out more about us. Take this opportunity to ask specific questions regarding the specific role you have applied for or MLA as a company and culture. |
Giving and receiving feedback
If you have been unsuccessful in your application our People and Values team will be in contact with you as soon as possible. We will provide you with feedback so that you understand the reasons and how you can prepare for future opportunities.
We are also interested in your experience throughout our recruitment process and would like to hear from you. Please feel free to provide us with feedback by contacting our People and Values team or emailing careers@mla.com.au
