Annie

About Annie Cerone

My mission: To drive you through your job search journey (stress-free) and win interviews. I’m passionate about all the services and products I offer and deliver to my clients. They've been instrumental in facilitating advancement for thousands of my clients. As a result, I'm continually rewarded with both repeat and referral business. I use my academic background in psychology to tap into the mindsets of my clients; helping them to flip negativity and self-doubt, driving them onward and upward. I’m here to do what I do best: market you. As my business slogan says: It’s all about marketing YOU.

FREE Selection Criteria Responses Samples – Senior Operational Capability Officer

This particular client applied for a role in State (QLD) Government in the capacity of Senior Operational Capability Officer and gained a job interview. A two-page statement was required addressing the stock standard five QLD Public Service (QPS) Capability Leadership Framework (CLF) selection criteria: supports strategic direction, achieves results, supports productive working relationships, displays personal drive and integrity, and communicates with influence. As mentioned in [...]

Australian Marketing Institute (AMI) Networking & Industry Night

It is rare I recommend events to my readers; however, this event is one that you really should consider. The event will leave you inspired with opportunities that are unfolding in South-East Queensland. Property, technology, and marketing combine in an excellent event that will change the way you see sales and communication. This would be a great opportunity to attend for those of you in [...]

By |April 11th, 2016|Networking|

Resume Writing Tips – Simple Hacks for Beating Automated Resume Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)

Amelia is a guest writer to my Blog page; she has written an interesting article on the ever prevalent ATS, which is becoming a huge problem for job seekers everywhere. Enjoy the reading. Essentially, you pour your heart and soul into the perfect resume that you’re sure will be a winner, only to discover that a human never has and never will see it. Like [...]

Strategies to Write a Winning Cover Letter

I am one of the many industry professionals that will tell you the importance of including a cover letter to accompany your resume. Although the jury is still out on this one; debate is still flaring amongst industry professionals like myself as to the importance of writing and including a cover letter with your job application. My professional recommendation is to do one, and one [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Answers Examples – EA to Dean & Head of School

This client applied for the role of EA to Dean & Head of School in the tertiary sector and gained a job interview. During the job interview, the selection panel commented on how highly impressed they all were with the written application. A total of five pages in cover letter format was developed to address selection criteria listed under Essential and Desirable sections. When I [...]

Resume Writing Tips – Turning Career Challenges into Great Resume Achievements

Jayne Blake is a guest writer on my blog; she has written an informative article on how you can turn your career challenges into your greatest career achievements. Failure is unavoidable. In fact, most people think failure is necessary for us to learn and grow into stronger, smarter beings. When you feel like you have failed, it can be hard to write your resume and [...]

Job Interview Tips – The Importance and Influence of Grooming, Dress and Deportment

Most of the information exchanged in the job interview is non-verbal; 93% of the manner in which we communicate is via non-verbal communication or body language. The interviewer(s)/selection panel will be immediately affected by your appearance. According to your grooming, dress and deportment on entering the room, the interviewer may decide whether or not you are suitable for the position and a good fit for [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Responses Samples – Locations & Film Services Manager

This particular client applied for the role of Locations & Film Services Manager in State (WA) Government and was successful in gaining a job interview. A two-page document was developed addressing six selection criteria. Following are excerpts from two of the criteria. Achieves Results. As the producer of a successful program (D&E) on the XXX television network, executives stipulated a change in direction/focus. I was [...]

Professional Resume Writing – The Top 8 Resume Mistakes to Avoid

Forbes.com published an article which revealed the results of a survey given to over 2,000 hiring managers to identify the most eccentric things employers had ever seen on resumes. When employers were asked what would make them automatically not consider a candidate from for a role, they revealed the following resumes mistakes: Typos (58%) Generically developed and did not tailor for the position (36%) A [...]

By |February 11th, 2016|Resume Writing|

Resume Writing Tips – Popular Font Styles to Use

With the increasing use of Applicant Tracking Software (ATS) by recruitment firms to scan resumes first up before being seen by a human, as well as organisations and Government departments stipulating the font style (and even font size) they want for written applications, it is good to know which fonts are popular and to keep a list of them aside. I have a few in [...]

Resume Writing Tips – Resume Content is ‘King’ | Resume Layout is ‘Queen’

Aligning both the content and layout in your resume especially on the first two pages will provide you with an impressive and winning document that will generate interviews. Resume Content is 'King': The content developed in your resume is #1: the content must reflect both breadth and depth. Clichéd statements such as ‘excellent communication skills’, ‘highly developed organisational skills’ and so forth are GONE! These [...]

Job Interview Process – Post Job Interview Tips

Jayne Blake is a guest writer on my blog; she has written an informative article on the smart things you can do after a job interview. Having a job interview can be daunting as it is, but did you ever consider that it’s what happens afterward that can count towards your application? In today’s extremely competitive job market, applicants are doing everything they can to [...]

By |February 5th, 2016|Job Interview|

FREE Selection Criteria Answers Examples – Director / Head of School

This client applied for the role of Director/Head of School in the tertiary sector; he gained a job interview was offered the role and accepted. The selection criteria component involved the addressing of a total of seven criteria listed under Essential and Desirable sections. In addressing the five criteria listed under the Essential section, content/examples for each one was written and maintained at just under [...]

Multi-Billion Dollar Vocational Education Industry and the Rise of the Scamming Training Colleges

I have been thinking about this particular issue for quite some time now and thought that now is the time to write a blog especially since I recently read a news article on how this insidious problem is progressively worsening. The article focused more on how individuals who were recruited by private training colleges to work were being scammed. Their role as a college employee [...]

Applications received for an APS Government Department numbered in excess of 41,000

The Department of Human Services (DHS) received 41,000 applications across its core three programs – Centrelink, Medicare, and the Child Support Agency – for just 1,250 jobs! Many of the roles were open only to applicants already working in the public service. At the time this article was written by HC Online, 923 job offers had been made with 512 acceptances. When I consult with [...]

Australian Job Market – Job & Employment Growth in Service Sector

Australia is realising job/employment growth hitting a new 10-year high. The economy’s service sector is the reason for this, taking over where the mining and manufacturing sectors left off. Health care has seen the biggest growth with 152,000 jobs created since November 2014. Growth in other key sectors includes Retail, IT, Financial Services, and Administration. Health care is now the nation’s biggest employer. Source: The [...]

FREE Selection Responses Samples – Investigator

This client applied for the role of Investigator in an APS/Commonwealth Government agency, gained a job interview, was offered the role and accepted. The application required addressing a two-page expression of interest (EOI) demonstrating the standard APS Integrated Leadership Framework (ILS) selection criteria. The five criteria included Supports strategic direction, Achieve results, Supports productive working relationships, Displays personal drive and integrity, and Communicates with influence. [...]

Networking and Career Development Resources: Small Business Resources for Women-Owned Businesses

Expertise.com is a newly created site which provides comprehensive resources for women business owners and entrepreneurs. Resources include a wealth of information, from fundraising advice through to grants, loans, and ventures capital, to tips to connect with different professional organisations designed to support women. To find out more, please click on the following link: Expertise.com. Cheers, Annie Cerone

FREE Selection Criteria Answers Examples – Teaching Scholar (Mechanical)

This client applied for the role of Teaching Scholar (Mechanical) in the tertiary sector and gained a job interview. A total of 17 selection criteria required addressing which were separated into Essential and Desirable Sections. The Essentials section contained four key headings (Qualifications, Teaching, Other, and Personal Qualities); and the Desirable component contained three selection criteria listed under the heading ‘Experience, Knowledge and Skills’. It [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Responses Samples – Executive Assistant NSW Government

This client applied for the role of Executive Assistant in a state (NSW) government agency and gained a job interview. A total of eight criteria required addressing; following are excerpts from two of the criteria. Capacity to implement administration and procurement policies, procedures and instructions, document control and records management systems and processes. Recently, the QQQ Group introduced a complete new electronic travel expense database. [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Answers Examples – Shift Supervisor Qld Health

This repeat business client applied for a role as Shift Supervisor in State (Qld) Government (Queensland Health). He was successful in gaining an interview, being offered the role and accepted. A two-page statement was required in addressing six criteria/competencies/ skill requirements. Following are full examples of two of the criteria. Technical capability: On a daily basis at TTT I adhere to standard operating procedures (SOPs) [...]

Career Development – Top Traits of Winning Successful Employees

In August 2015, Undercover Recruiter posted a very interested article on the top 16 traits of winning and successful employees. Research has revealed that individuals with the following traits become the wealthiest, most successful and respected in the professional world. Strong work ethic combined with a desire for improvement. Exceptional organisational skills. High energy. Positive and realistic outlook and the ability to determine unrealistic expectations. [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Answers Examples – Transport Inspector

This client applied for the role of Transport Inspector within a state (QLD) government department. A total of 96 candidates applied; 15 were shortlisted and chosen for the interview phase including my client. The written application involved the preparation of a three-page statement in cover letter format addressing six criteria. Following are excerpts from two of the criteria. Demonstrated competence in undertaking and supervising complex [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Responses Samples – Administrator

This client applied for an internal Administrator role within Queensland Health (QH) and was successful in gaining an interview. A two-page statement required the addressing of six selection criteria (or competencies, capabilities, skill requirements) – these terms are used interchangeably across different roles and government departments. A full example of one of the criteria follows. Demonstrated ability to carry out a range of duties with [...]

Job Search Strategies – Twitter NOT LinkedIn is the Ultimate Career Site

Undercover Recruiter posted a very interesting article today claiming that Twitter is the best career site over LinkedIn. Click on the following link: Undercover Recruiter’s article to read the article. My professional philosophy and recommendation to those of you who are active job seekers is not to place all your eggs in one basket. Following is a classic and recent example. Only yesterday I was [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Answers Examples – Senior Recruitment Coordinator (International)

Preparing selection criteria for tertiary applications is never fun and there are always Essential and Desirable criteria to address. I always advise clients to keep the document to a maximum of five pages – institutions do not typically stipulate word or page length limits. The less criteria to address, the less pages needed. You should always address all the selection criteria in the Desirable section; [...]

APS Selection Criteria Applications – Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) Example

Many APS Government agencies are changing the manner in which selection criteria are addressed by asking a specific line of questioning, and of course they are continuing on with mandating a word or character length limit for each criterion. Take for example this most recent role – APS3 Information Officer within the Department of Immigration and Border Protection – which was advertised in April 2015. [...]

Career Development Tips: Careers for people who like to work alone

Plenty of people prefer to spend time on their own when fulfilling their professional duties. Let's be honest, modern corporate lifestyle is not for everyone, is it? Working in an overcrowded open space, dealing with noisy co-workers, attending conferences, and meeting new clients – these all sound like a nightmare for every loner out there. If you are more of a solo player and prefer [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Responses Samples: APS Order of Merit Acting Opportunities / Team Leader

This client commissioned my services to prepare an Express of Interest (EOI) – Order of Merit for acting opportunities at APS5 level within an APS Government department. She was successful in gaining an interview and the feedback she received from the selection panel regarding her written application – in particular the EOI – was very positive; they advised that it was very impressive, one of [...]

Job Search Strategies – Should you apply for the job if you don’t meet all the requirements?

Just because the job posting features a lengthy list of requirements no real person can have, it doesn't mean you need to meet each and every point. This is what an ideal candidate would look like and we all know that there are no ideal candidates – even if all the skills are there, nobody is an expert in all areas. Why should you apply [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Answers Examples: Business Services Officer

This client applied for the role of Business Services Officer in state (NSW) government and was successful in reaching the job interview stage. Eight (8) criteria required addressing; following are excerpts from two of the criteria. Client engagement and customer service skills and capacity to establish and maintain effective working partnerships with internal and external stakeholders. While working for my current employer – the Department [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Responses Samples: Team Leader Child Protection

This client applied for the role of Team Leader Child Protection in state (WA) government. The selection criteria component involved addressing five criteria in three pages. Their application secured a job interview. Following are excerpts from two of the criteria. Advanced supervision, management, leadership skills and experience in working in a multi-disciplinary team setting. I have had extensive experience working in a multi-disciplinary team setting, [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Answers and Examples – Electronic Monitoring Surveillance Officer

This client applied for the role of Electronic Monitoring Surveillance Officer in state (QLD) government and gained a job interview. The majority of applications for QLD government departments/agencies stipulate the preparation of a statement addressing selection criteria in two pages. Following are excerpts from two of the selection criteria. Surveillance: In my most recent role as a marine specialist and Second in Charge (2IC) within [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Responses and Samples – Assistant Compliance Officer

This client applied for the role of Assistant Compliance Officer in state (NSW) government and gained a job interview. Six selection criteria required addressing; a statement of four pages in length addressing the criteria was developed. Following is a full example of one of the criteria. Demonstrated interpersonal skills, including the ability to manage difficult clients and negotiate outcomes. On one occasion, I prepared a [...]

Resume Writing Tips – Decorative Resumes: 7 pitfalls to avoid if you want the job

May I welcome another guest contributor to my blog, Angelica Jennsen. Angela is an experienced Marketing Specialist with vast IT experience and is currently employed by Seven Spots. Enjoy reading Angela’s article as follows… We all know the mantra that a good resume can get your foot in the door of employment. Online resources provide us with ample templates and examples demonstrating how a good [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Answers and Examples – Customer Service Officer

This client applied for the role of Customer Service Officer in local government, a council in NSW. My client was successful in gaining a job interview. A four-page statement was prepared to address selection criteria covering both ‘Essential’ and ‘Desirable’ components with ten and three criteria respectively, 13 in total. Following are excerpts from two of the criteria in the Essential section. Skills in conflict [...]

Top Ranking Essential Transferable Skills

Top 10 transferable employability skills: 1. Communication 2. Teamwork 3. Time Management 4. Problem Solving 5. Organisation 6. Learning 7. Computer 8. Listening 9. Creativity 10. Leadership Employers’ indicators of success include fundamental soft and hard skills; percentages outlined below indicate those employers who say the skill is important. Top 5 soft skills: 1. Work ethic: 80% 2. Teamwork: 79% 3. Oral Communications: 73% 4. [...]

Ten (10) Reasons Why a Job Interview Can Go Wrong

If anything, the current shaky economy and overcrowded job market doesn't make it any easier to find a job. In desperate job search, candidates tend to forget about the importance of interviews and fall victim to some of most basic things that might go wrong. The opportunity of a job interview is today a success itself and maybe the feeling feeds into candidates' performance – [...]

By |September 8th, 2014|Job Interview|

FREE Selection Criteria Responses and Samples – Teacher Hairdressing

This client applied for the role of Teacher Hairdressing within a TAFE institution in state (Queensland) Government. The application involved preparing a suitability statement addressing selection criteria based on the Queensland Public Service (QPS) Capability Leadership Framework (CLF). Five standard selection criteria are contained in the CLF: [1] supports strategic direction, [2] achieves results, [3] supports productive working relationships, [4] displays personal drive and integrity, [...]

Tips for Using Resume and Cover Letter Keywords

I am pleased to introduce you to Kelly Smith from CourseFinder who is a guest contributor to my blog. Kelly also provides career advice for students and job seekers, and is as a freelance writer. She has written a great article outlining tips on using keywords in both your resume and cover letter. Enjoy the reading ... Today's overcrowded job market has significantly changed not [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Answers and Examples – Management Accounting Coordinator

This client applied for the role of Management Accounting Coordinator in local government (a council in Victoria), and gained a job interview. A three-page statement was prepared to address five selection criteria. Following are excerpts from two of the criteria. Demonstrated experience in leading, managing and developing staff. In my current role as Financial Controller at EEE Ltd, I lead, manage and develop a team [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Responses and Samples – Administrative Support Officer

This particular client applied for the role of Administrative Support Officer in state (NSW) government and gained a job interview. The selection criteria component required the addressing of five criteria at a maximum of 3/4pg per criterion. Following are excerpts from two of the criteria. Demonstrated computer keyboard, data entry and word processing skills. As a highly experienced Data Entry Clerk and Administrator, over the [...]

Australian Job Market – Talent and Skills Shortage for 2014

According to ManpowerGroup’s global Talent Shortage Survey, 41% of Australian employers are struggling to find job candidates with the right skills despite unemployment sitting at 5.8%. This reflects that the employment landscape is very complex. However, the survey results showed a softening of the labour market, with the percentage of employers struggling to fill roles falling from 50% in 2012, to 45% in 2013, and [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Answers and Examples – Chief Recovery Officer

This repeat business client applied for the senior level role of Chief Recovery Officer in State (NSW) Government. Four selection criteria required addressing with a maximum of one page per criterion. He was once again successful in gaining a job interview. Following are excerpts from two of the criteria. A proven track record of success in leading and developing high performance teams in complex environments [...]

Australian Job Market – Top 10 High Paying Jobs Not Requiring Degree Qualifications

CareerFAQs posted an interesting article early this month outlining the jobs where you can make a lot of money (a solid six-figure salary or more) and do not need a university degree to secure them. The top 10 highest paying jobs in Australia where you would be earning salaries well above the average national income of $56.3k include: 1. Air transport professionals Potential salary range: [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Responses and Samples – School Partnerships Coordinator

This particular client applied for the role of School Partnerships Coordinator in the tertiary sector (a university in Victoria) and gained an interview. Typically, applications for roles in the tertiary sector involve addressing more criteria than asked for in government sector applications; and they are categorised into Essential and Desirable components with many more criteria in the Essential category. This particular application required the addressing [...]

Australian Job Market – Latest Skills Shortages Report

The Department of Employment recently released their 2013 Skills Shortages Australia report. The report was undertaken in consultation with over 5,500 employers and utilised data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), Department of Education, Graduate Careers Australia (GCA), and the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER). Trade skills high in demand included: - Automotive: automotive electrician, motor mechanic, small engine mechanic and panelbeater. [...]

Examples of Job Interview Questions – Challenging and Role-Specific

When clients commission me to conduct one-on-one job interview coaching sessions, I prepare specifically-tailored job interview questions relevant to the role and in readiness for their upcoming job interview. The questions I prepare for the coaching sessions are not basic; I like to challenge my clients to think in-depth and laterally. Clients have found the job interview coaching sessions an invaluable preparation tool which helps [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Answers and Examples – Senior Health and Safety Consultant

This particular client applied for the role of Senior Health and Safety Consultant in a state (Queensland) government department and was successful in gaining a job interview. A two page statement was developed which involved addressing the standard five selection criteria based on the Queensland Government’s Capability Leadership Framework (CLF). The CLF selection criteria include Supports Strategic Direction, Achieves Results, Supports Productive Working Relationships, Displays [...]

FREE Selection Criteria Responses and Samples – Account Unit Head, National Water

This repeat business client has gained job interviews from previously prepared applications, steadily progressing through the ranks of the APS. This time around the application involved addressing selection criteria for an EL2 level role (Account Unit Head, National Water) in another APS government department. She was successful in gaining a job interview and was offered the role and accepted. Seven selection criteria required addressing; the [...]

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