TOOLBOX - Elite Domo

The Toolbox gives you tips and tricks as well as standards to help you in presenting yourself to potential employers.

You never get a second chance to make a good first impression.
Your resume is no exception.
We recommend that you pay attention to:

Clarity: Ensure your resume is simple and clear, following a standard format (you can download a template here).
Relevance: Highlight recent and relevant experience.
Reversed Chronological Order: List your relevant jobs in reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent.
Length: Keep your resume-CV concise, with a maximum of three pages.
Work History: Provide explanations for any gaps between jobs.
Conciseness: Use bullet points to describe your responsibilities, keeping them short and to the point.
Presentation: Pay attention to alignment, spelling, and grammar for a polished presentation.
Honesty: Be truthful in your application and ensure that you can substantiate all information provided.

If you have to do an interview over the phone, the first 45 seconds are crucial, so be prepared to answer questions typically related to:

Here are additional tips to keep in mind:

Address your interviewer by their last name (e.g., Mrs. Shaw).
If the interview is conducted in French, use “vous” to address the interviewer, unless given permission to use the “tu” form.
Expect to be asked about why you left your previous jobs (or why you are considering leaving your current one) and why you believe you are the best fit for the position.
Have with you your resume-CV and the job posting in case you need to refer to it during the interview.

Here are important tips for a successful interview over a video call:

Dress for success. We recommend that you choose a professional outfit to make a good first impression.
Ensure you have adequate lighting; avoid positioning yourself with a light source directly behind you so the interviewer can see you clearly.
Position your camera at eye level.
Select a location with a neutral or professional background, or use a background provided by the video call application.
Have with you your resume-CV and the job posting you have applied on in case you need to refer to it.
Log in 5 minutes in advance to ensure you do not need to install any updates for your video call application.
Address your interviewer using their last name (e.g., Mrs. Thompson).
If the interview is conducted in French, use “vous” to address the interviewer unless given permission to use the “tu” form.
Do not hesitate to request a test video call with your recruiter.
For additional tips, you can watch a short video: Job video call interview tips

Here are the basic rules for the beginning of the interview:

Plan to arrive at the meeting location about 15 minutes in advance. Check for traffic, road construction, and be mindful of rush hours.
Arrive alone.
Bring with you a copy of your resume-cv and of the job posting, and any relevant documents that the interviewer may request.
Bring two official IDs (passport, permanent resident card, driver’s license, etc.), in case they are needed.
Have a cell phone with you or a way to inform us if you will be late.
If the person you are supposed to meet is not there at the scheduled time, do not leave. Stay nearby and contact your placement agent for assistance.
Plan your schedule accordingly; a thorough interview can last 45 to 90 minutes.
Wear a neutral and professional outfit; avoid clothing that is too revealing, excessive jewelry, or heavy makeup. Refrain from wearing cologne or perfume, and ensure you are scent-free.
Turn off your mobile phone before the interview begins.
Give a firm handshake and look into the eyes of the interviewer.
Wait to sit until you are invited to do so.
Address your interviewer by their last name (e.g., Mr. Smith).
If the interview is conducted in French, use “vous” to address the interviewer unless given permission to use the “tu” form.”

During the interview, remember the following:

Smile.
Sit up straight.
Avoid resting your elbows on the table.
Maintain eye contact with the interviewer.
Be enthusiastic and confident, yet remain calm.
Take a moment to consider your response before answering.
Avoid providing only “yes” or “no” answers; elaborate on your responses and provide examples where possible.
Allow the interviewer to guide the conversation and ask questions as needed.
Keep your responses relevant to the questions asked.
Respond in the same language as the interviewer, if the interview is conducted in multiple languages.
Refrain from interrupting the interviewer while they are speaking; wait until they have finished before commenting or asking questions.
Avoid finishing the interviewer’s sentences.
Steer clear of discussing topics such as politics, religion, personal problems, or other sensitive subjects unrelated to the job.
Maintain a professional demeanor and refrain from speculating on the identity of the client.
Demonstrate interest by nodding occasionally to indicate your engagement in the conversation.
Expect a brief pause after answering a question while the interviewer takes notes.
Feel free to ask relevant questions, but keep in mind that additional details, including salary information, may be provided in subsequent interviews.
Always be truthful and honest in your responses.

After the interview

Thank the interviewer and shake his or her hand.
After the interview, you can send an email to express gratitude for the opportunity to meet. If you were informed that the recruiter would contact you if selected, it is not necessary to call for an update.