How My 5th Interview with CSS Got Me A Job After One Year Job Search

Have you attended endless interviews which do not translate to job offers?

Well, if you’re getting interviews, then it means your CV is doing a good job hence you need to focus on sharpening your interview skills.

Teresa Aput had been looking for a job for over one year when the operations and finance functions were scaled

down in the company she was working for.

She attended four interviews with CSS and when she came across the role of Senior Accountant we had advertised for our client Paix, she applied and was considered for the role.

I had a conversation with her to understand what made her stand out in a pool of many applicants and here is her story.

Tell us about yourself.

I am a certified public accountant CPA-K with a degree in Business Management (Finance and Accounting). I have over 15 years of work experience in accounting and finance functions in the telecommunication industry.

How long had you been looking for a job?

I had been actively looking for a job for the last year when the company I was working for started scaling down operations and functions of the finance in operating countries which affected me.

What has your job search experience been like?

My journey was a learning process because with the interviews that I got, I took home a lesson even though I did not land a job due to the budget constraint to the package which did not match with what I was looking for.

Are there any specific challenges you encountered in your job search process?

Major challenges that I encountered included budget constraints and with some good opportunities that I proceeded to the final stage, they were put on hold which frustrated me at some point.

Where did you hear about Corporate Staffing and the job opportunity?

I knew Corporate Staffing Service through online platforms and for several years, I had been checking their daily job posts. In fact, I have been interviewed four times by CSS.

How was the application and interview process?

It was fast and efficient. The feedback was prompt, and three weeks after the interview, I landed a job offer which was very encouraging on my side.

Did you think you would get the job?

Yes, from my first interview with the company, I knew I had a corporate culture that was a perfect fit, and relevant experience, and what they were looking for which gave me confidence.

Why do you think you got the job when other candidates didn’t? Or what made you stand out from other candidates?

I had relevant experience and skills. I was culturally fit and I had a wide knowledge of industry trends.

What do you think the employers are looking for when hiring?

Employers are looking for experienced and adaptability to fit the culture of the company.

Many professionals continue to look for jobs during this tough time. What is your advice to them?

My advice is to ensure they have a revamped CV for them to articulate that they are right for the role. When invited for an interview, it is important to prepare well by researching and understanding what the employer is looking for so that they position themselves as the best candidate.

What do you think is the secret to getting a job in this competitive market?

Be competent in what you do and you will become visible in the job market.

If you were to speak to any professional, what is one thing you would tell them this 2023?

Professional development is crucial acquiring the relevant skills is one of the best ways to stand out in a competitive job market.