JOB-HUNTING FOR DUMMIES

Thinking of cracking a joke in your next job interview? Forget it, says University of New South Wales psychologist Dr Jim Bright, author of Job-Hunting for Dummies.

"Don't ever use humour. You are just as likely to offend or baffle your interviewers as you are to amuse them," Dr Bright advises.

Job Hunting for Dummies sets out some simple rules for job hunting, based on Dr Bright's research into the recruitment process.

"The aim is to make the experience of looking for a job less harrowing and improve the success rate for hopeful job seekers," Dr Bright says. "The book recommends strategies for areas as broad as coping with stress, self-motivation and the psychology of negotiation."

Much of Dr Bright's research focuses on interview technique. "There are several main points that research show will increase your chances of success," he said. "One of the most simple is to assume that the interview has started from the moment you walk into the building. Also you should never be intimidated a panel interviews. It is actually a fairer method as you are less likely to be judged on job irrelevant traits such as your appearance."

Preparation is also essential. "It is important to pre-prepare questions to ask your interviewer, the best ones include references to your future at the company, especially career development possibilities. You should also know your audience, find out who will interview you and what their background is."

"It is also important to control your body language. Sit slightly forward and make eye contact with the person you are speaking to."

According to Dr Bright's research first impressions count. "We have found that the impression you make in the first 20 seconds of a job interview is unlikely to change by the end of the interview," he said. "This also highlights the importance of a good resume. Not only is a resume a tool to get you to the interview, it also shapes the interviewers first opinions about you, which is crucial."

Dr Bright says that good resumes are results and achievements focused and include features such as competency statements.

CONTACT DETAILS: Dr Jim Bright, School of Psychology, tel. 9385 3050 or Victoria Collins, Public Affairs and Development, tel. 9385 3644.