What are the most important things you should think about when applying for a job? How do you ensure that your application stands out? How do you land the job of your dreams? Careers expert, John Taccori will share his winning formula.

John consults as a private careers counsellor. He’s recently put together a list of things he calls ‘The Winning Formula’ that aims to give young people the steps to landing the job they want.

1) A good resume and portfolio

2) What to include in your resume

3) Research the industry and company

4) Dress well and conservatively

5) Be on time for the interview

6) Don’t bring a friend

7) Have three relevant questions ready for the interview

8) Have good eye contact and a strong handshake

9) Show enthusiasm – knowledge of industry and a willingness to learn 10) Take time to answer the questions

11) After the interview send a thank you letter or card

12) Be patient in waiting for a response

About John:

After finishing school, John spent a year or two working as a barman, musician, bricky’s labourer and with the Red Cross before deciding to become a teacher. He studied teaching at the Australian Catholic University, and decided to move into teaching because he wanted to have a tangible effect on people’s lives. He’s now been teaching for 23 years.

12 years ago, John was offered the chance to become a researcher at the Catholic Education office, looking into issues concerning education, careers and vocational training. It’s since become a passion of his, and he’s now a leading expert on career/vocational issues facing Australia.

He went back to university to do a PhD in vocation and careers education and started counselling students in 1995.

In 2004 he graduated with his PhD and started advising the government on key issues regarding education, training, vocations and careers, advising on policy issues and making recommendations such as pushing to have full time careers advice in high schools.

He now counsels various people each week. Most are school-leavers and young people, but some are those who are no longer interested in the subject they studied at university and are looking at what else they can do, while others are mature people who have already worked for a number of years but are now looking for a change.