"Avoid the old reliables when it comes to questions. I like to be asked questions that try and get to the heart of company culture, management style and how individual performances are assessed.
"
- Jennifer Boughton, HR Manager
Version 1
"We like candidates to demonstrate an ability to think outside of the box. Problem solving and creative skills and above all a passion for, and knowledge of, our business."
- Amanda Philips
paddypower.com
"It's important a candidate highlights the specific position for which they are applying, even if the application is speculative. I like to see a brief summary of the candidates experience in the letter and also their availability for interview."
- Alan Murphy, Director of Human Resources
Northern Foods
"The cover letter is a useful way to communicate what doesn't always fit well in a CV. It's a chance to give a brief summary of key achievements indicating real value to a prospective employer. It might demonstrate a clear career focus or highlight areas of expertise relevant to the specific position."
- Gary McCabe, Head of HR
Kuehne + Nagle
"Your CV should be two to three pages at most. The interview is the place to get into higher levels of details on previous positions.
"
- David O'Reilly, HR Manager
Sage
"The three factors that most commonly let a candidate down are lack of enthusiasm or energy, bad mouthing previous employers or being unable to give satisfactory explanation for leaving previous roles."
- Orla Cleary, HR Manager
Premier Foods
"If a candidate does not have questions for me at interview, I have to take the view that they are not interested in the job.
"
- Paul Vance, Head of Resourcing
KPMG
"Preparation for and confidence at an interview is down to three simple things: know your CV, know the job and know the company.
"
- Louise O'Donoghue, HR Generalist
Unilever
"The three characteristics we look for in every hire are can-do attitude, leadership and problem solving."
- Mary Gallagher, HR Manager
General Electric
"Make sure you research the company before interview. Dont just review the website, everyone can do that. "
- Orla Cribben, Human Resources Officer
Glanbia
