hey everyone - first time writer, long time lurker here needing advice from people!
I've just graduated from a good UK university with a BscHons Computer Science grade 21. I've struggled to get a job in the recession because I dont have industrial experience and I applied for a Digital Forensic Admin job with the police on the offchance.
I've got an interview on the 23rd and the job seems fantastic; really interesting, near my house, good money the works. From the vague description I gather I will be taking in digital evidence, cataloging them and maybe doing some imaging/copying using specialist software, and general admin stuff for the unit.
My question is this; if I have already covered my technical, teamwork & communication skills in the application form, what aspect do I big up in the interview? Should I talk about these to reinforce my skills or talk about forensics, relevant legislation & the company more? If I lose out again to 'someone with experience', i will end up on the dole for christmas because my retail job has been made redundant. .
advice appreciated!
choco x
From the vague description I gather I will be taking in digital evidence, cataloging them and maybe doing some imaging/copying using specialist software, and general admin stuff for the unit.
I would suggest obtaining a more detailed description of your duties - say, a job specification - so that you can do your own detailed planning in preparation for your interview for the specific job. Why would you think it's better to guess what you're expected to do rather than confidently ask for a detailed job spec? Pick out the key competencies and plan the examples you can give at an interview for how you have demonstrated fulfilment of those competencies before, in whatever environment. You are much more likely to gain respect from a perspective employer by taking proactive steps to plan for the time they are giving up to consider your application.
And be ready to talk knowledgeably about their company - history, current strategy, etc. and how you (through your competencies) dovetail with them.
If you have a lack of experience, you have to take responsibility to counter the suggestion.
Happy planning and the best of luck - it is tough out there, especially those after their first break - but this only makes it more important that you do all that you can do to be as good as you can be at the meeting.
Just to insert my 10 cents worth –
Be prepared to answer at least two questions on Health & Safety and Diversity. In our Force (name withheld to protect the incredibly guilty) you could pass every other question on the board with maximum points but a failure in this particular area will mean a failure overall. I know it sounds daft but it is the way that the Police Force, sorry, Service is going nowadays.
Good luck!!
Nigel
Just to insert my 10 cents worth –
Be prepared to answer at least two questions on Health & Safety and Diversity. In our Force (name withheld to protect the incredibly guilty) you could pass every other question on the board with maximum points but a failure in this particular area will mean a failure overall. I know it sounds daft but it is the way that the Police Force, sorry, Service is going nowadays.
Good luck!!
Nigel
+1
Hi Choco,
If you haven't read it yet, have a look at this helpful thread that offered to advice to someone in a similar position
http//www.forensicfocus.com/index.php?name=Forums&file=viewtopic&t=1599
I can't give you the technical advice that some of the other people here can, but I would encourage you to try to let your personality come through as much as possible during the meeting.
It is easy when you are nervous to become almost robotic in your answers, but keep in mind that whoever is interviewing you is much more likely to offer you the role if they like you personally and the best way for that to happen is for them to get to know a little of the real Choco.
Good luck!