Well-prepared documents are your first impression on potential employers.

• Tailored Resume (CV):
  • Highlight achievements and skills relevant to the role.
  • Use a clear, professional format with concise bullet points.
  • Ensure it meets New Zealand resume standards such as:
    • Length: 1-2 pages, concise and relevant to the job.
    • Visa Status:Including visa status on a New Zealand resume is optional but recommended if it’s relevant to the job.
    • Format: Clean, simple layout with clear headings and bullet points.
    • Contact Details: Include name, phone number, email, and LinkedIn profile (if applicable). No date of birth is required.
    • Profile Summary: A brief introduction highlighting skills and career goals.
    • Work Experience: List jobs in reverse chronological order, focusing on achievements and responsibilities.
    • Education: Include qualifications, institutions, and graduation dates.
    • Skills: Emphasize relevant technical and soft skills.
    • References: State “Available on request” instead of listing them.
  • Personalized Cover Letter:
    • Address the cover letter to the hiring manager (if known).
    • Express your enthusiasm for the role and explain how your background aligns with the company’s needs.
  • Certificates and References:
    • Bring copies of any qualifications or certifications relevant to the role.
    • Prepare a list of professional references who can vouch for your skills and experience.
  • Portfolio (if applicable):

Compile a portfolio showcasing your best work, particularly for roles in Education, IT, Construction or Engineering etc.

Practice answering both general and role-specific questions to build confidence.

General Questions:

• “Tell me about yourself.”
  Tip:Focus on professional highlights relevant to the role.
• “Why do you want to work here?”
  Tip:Mention aspects of the company that resonate with your career goals and values.
• “What are your greatest strengths and weaknesses?”
  Tip:Choose strengths that align with the role and frame weaknesses as areas for growth.

Role-Specific Questions:

• “What experience do you have that’s relevant to this position?”
• “Can you explain how you would handle a particular challenge related to this role?”

Behavioural Questions (STAR Method):

Behavioural questions assess how you’ve handled past situations. Use the STAR method:

• Situation: Describe the context.
• Task: Explain your responsibility.
• Action: Detail the steps you took.
• Result: Share the outcome.

Examples:

• “Give an example of how you successfully worked as part of a team.”
• “Describe a situation where you solved a problem creatively.”

• Punctuality:
  Arrive 10–15 minutes early. This shows you’re organised and serious about the opportunity.
• Dress Appropriately:
  Dress according to the company’s culture. For corporate roles, opt for formal or business casual attire.
• Body Language:
  • Maintain good posture.
  • Make eye contact without staring.
  • Smile and show enthusiasm for the role.

Communication:
Speak clearly and confidently. Avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role.

When invited to ask questions, it’s your chance to show genuine interest in the role and company.

• “What does a typical day in this role look like?”
• “What are the team’s biggest goals for the next six months?”
• “Are there professional development opportunities within the company?”

Tip: Avoid asking about salary or benefits unless the interviewer brings it up.

• Thank-You Note:
  Send a professional thank-you email within 24 hours, expressing gratitude and reiterating your enthusiasm for the role.
• Feedback:
  If you’re not selected, ask politely for feedback to improve in future interviews.

If you’re a migrant or an international candidate, there are additional considerations:

• Work Visa Requirements:
  Be prepared to discuss your visa status. Employers in New Zealand often seek candidates eligible to work legally in the country.
• Understanding New Zealand Workplace Culture:
  • The workplace is typically collaborative and values respect and open communication.
  • Avoid over-promoting yourself, as modesty is appreciated in Kiwi culture.

• Being unprepared for questions about the company or role.
• Speaking negatively about past employers or colleagues.
• Interrupting the interviewer or providing overly long answers.

Failing to prepare your own questions for the interviewer.

• Mock Interviews: Practice with friends, mentors, or career coaches to build confidence.
• Local Support: Use New Zealand job agencies or networking events to learn about workplace norms.
• Work-Ready Skills: If new to the job market, consider upskilling with short courses relevant to your field.