Commonwealth Bank Group - Know Your Money

Get the job you want
Employee rights

Getting the job you really want

It's not usually easy to land the job you want. If you want it because it's a good job, then lots of other people will want it too. And when it's a competitive environment, there are plenty of things you can do to give yourself the best possible chance.

Check out specialist industry publications
Not only will you get to know all the latest about what's going on in the industry, but you'll also learn about the 'big players' and key companies to contact. Plus there should be plenty of ads for jobs.

Register with a recruitment agency (or 2, 3 or 4)
A good recruiter will have contacts with every decent firm and will know who's looking.

Volunteer for work placement
Unpaid work experience can be a great way into a full time job. You'll look really keen, you'll get to meet people who can help you and if you impress them enough they'll do their best to keep you on or get you in the door elsewhere.

Network
Attend conferences and industry seminars, get talking to industry people, be brave and cold call companies.

Did you know?
According to seek.com, more than half of positions vacant in Australia are filled via word of mouth rather than by advertising. So enlist your friends, family and acquaintances to keep their ear to the ground for the type of job you're keen on. You can even give them your resume. Touch base with them regularly and you've got a great chance to get the jobs no one else knows about.

The interview - here's a tip or 2

Be prepared for questions ahead of time. What are your strengths and weaknesses? How do you think you can add value to their organisation?
Learn about the company so you can ask them some relevant questions.
Get there early and dress appropriately.
Consider your career path and how this position will help you get there.
If a question makes you feel uncomfortable, ask for clarification or for the interviewer to explain its relevance to the position.
And smile!

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Things to ask

Overtime work. Will you be paid or will you receive time in lieu?
When will your salary be reviewed? Is this written into your contract?
Is there a bonus system? How exactly is this calculated?
What is your 'probationary period' before your entitlements count? 3 months is normal.
How much notice is required if you choose to leave?

Australia's new workplace relations system is summarised on the WorkChoices web site. This will cover 85% of Australians and include everything from annual leave and fair pay and conditions, to employee termination and meal break entitlements. It's a good idea to be up-to-date with all the changes.

Links for worker's rights

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