SeccinDepartamental

DepartamentodeLingsticaAplicadaalaCienciayalaTecnologa
EscuelaTcnicaSuperiordeIngenieraAeronuticaydelEspacio
UniversidadPolitcnicadeMadrid

InglsProfesionalyAcadmico

EnglishforProfessionalandAcademicCommunication

Unit1

Readingandlisteningforacademicandprofessionalpurposes
Unit2

Academicwriting
Unit3

Technicalwritingandprofessionalcommunication
Unit4

ProfessionalinteractionOralpresentationsandmeetings
Unit5

ProfessionalEnglishThejobhuntingprocess

Profesores:
BerniceClark,LuisDochao,JuanManuelHolgado,MaradelMarRobisco,CarmenSancho

Unit 5: Professional English The job hunting process

Contents

Unit overview and Map of the unit

pages 2 3

Introduction: The engineering workplace (video lesson 1)

pages 4 6

Stages in the job hunting process

page 7

Stage 1: Researching yourself

pages 8 10

Stage 2: Searching for a job

pages 11 14

E-recruiting (video lesson 2)

page 15

Stage 3: Preparing job application materials

pages 16 28

Stage 4: Preparing for the interview

pages 29 36

Stage 5: Attending the interview

pages 37 38

Stage 6: Following up on the interview

pages 38 40

Appendix 1: Common interview questions

pages 41 42

Appendix 2: Useful webpages

pages 43 44

Unit overview
The aim of this unit is to help you develop the English language and communication
skills you will need when applying for a job.
It will provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to conduct a successful job
search and to produce effective job application materials. The unit also deals with
preparing job interviews and how to ask and answer common interview questions.

Map of the unit

Topic

Introduction:
The engineering
workplace
Pages 4 - 6
Stages in the job
hunting process
Page 7

Stage 1:
Researching yourself
Pages 8 - 10

Stage 2:
Searching for a job
Pages 11 - 14
E-recruiting
Page 15
Stage 3:
Preparing job

Learning objectives:
After studying this
section, you will be able
to
- use vocabulary
connected with the
engineering workplace
- answer questions about
your career goals

Classwork / Assignments /
Homework

(instructions to be given in class)

Classwork:
- Video lesson 1
- Discussion activity

- recognise the typical

stages in the job hunting
process

Classwork:
- Audio lesson

- understand the
significance for job
success of personal skills
and qualities and
workplace skills
- identify your own
transferable skills,
strengths and weaknesses
- answer interview
questions about your
strengths and weaknesses
- identify the most
frequent ways of finding a
job
- locate suitable graduatelevel vacancies
- identify the key
differences between
online and traditional job
applications
- analyse aspects of job
application materials: the

Classwork:
- Discussion activity
- Audio lesson

Classwork:
- Discussion activity
- Audio lesson
Assignment 1: your job
advertisement (page 14)
Classwork:
- Video lesson 2
Classwork:
- Reading and discussion

application materials
Pages 16 - 28

Stage 4:
Preparing for the
interview
Pages 29 - 36
Stage 5:
Attending the interview
Pages 37 - 38

Stage 6:
Following up on the
interview
Pages 38 - 40

content, style and layout,

etc.
- prepare an effective CV
and cover letter

activities

- discuss guidelines for job

interviews
- anticipate interview
questions and give
explanations
- analyse the performance
of candidates at a job
interview
- practise an interview
focused on your own CV
and cover letter

Classwork:
- Discussion activity
- Audio lesson
Assignment 4: preparing for
your job interview (page 36)
Small group work in
laboratory session:
- Video lesson 3
- Discussion activity
Assignment 5: your job
interview (page 38)

- analyse your
performance at a job
interview
- determine the interview
skills that need
improvement

Classwork:
- Discussion activity
- Audio lesson
Assignment 5: your feedback
on your interview (page 38)
Assignment 6: your follow-up
letter (page 40)

Appendix 1: Common interview questions

Pages 41 - 42
Appendix 2: Useful webpages
Pages 43 - 44

Assignment 2: your CV (page

24)
Assignment 3: your cover
letter (page 28)

Introduction: The engineering workplace (video lesson 1)

You are going to watch a video consisting of sequences filmed in several engineering
workplaces.

Before you watch: Vocabulary development

Work in pairs. In three minutes, write as many words as you can think of under the headings.
Some ideas have been included to start you off.
Key words

Work stations

aircraft

shop floor

The workforce: technical staff

Technical tasks

mechanic

assembly

Global viewing task (without sound)

As you watch the sequences, tick the words you have written and add more terms to the
table.

Global viewing task (with sound)

You are now going to watch the same extracts again with a voiceover by Thiery Baril,
Airbuss Executive Vice President of Human Resources (HR).
Extract 1
1. Before you listen, match the words and phrases to their definitions. If necessary, look at
the summary of the transcript on the next page to see the words in context.
1. backlog

the process of finding people to join a company

or organisation

2. ramp-up
3. recruitment

to employ or take on new staff

to make a statement about what is likely to happen,
relating to the weather, business, or the economy

4. shortage
5. to forecast

a lack of something that is needed or wanted

an increase in the rate or level at which goods
are produced

6. to hire

an amount of work or other things that should already

have been done

2. As you listen, complete the missing information in this summary.

At this point in time, Airbus is encouraging new talent and is looking to expand its workforce.
The company forecasts a period of 1..... years of full production to cope with the backlog
of 2..... aircraft.
In consequence, they are looking to hire more than 3. .... people worldwide for 2011,
with another strong volume of recruitment for the year 2012.
Due to the shortage of skilled staff, and of engineers in particular, the consortium is recruiting
from Europe, as well as from India, Russia, Brazil and China.
4...%.

of the companys recruitment of engineers is with graduates, who the company is

looking forward to training in order to face the very strong ramp-up they are predicting.
Currently, the program which requires the most prepared resources and competencies for the
future is the 5..... . In order to satisfy demand for this plane, they are organising a lot of
internal mobilities from other aircraft programs. At the same time, they need to take on new
staff for the 6....., 7..... and 8..... .
Airbus welcomes diversity in its applicants because the difference makes the difference. This
diversity refers both to gender, where 9...%. of the recruitments are made with women,
and to the international profiles of the global recruits.

Extract 2
In this extract, the Airbus HR executive advises students on how to apply for a position in
Airbus and on the skills and competencies the company is looking for.
First read the questions. Then, as you listen, answer them.
1. What website should you connect to in order to apply for a post at Airbus?
2. Can you apply before you actually finish your studies?
3. How many interns did the company take on in 2012?

4. Complete his advice to students who are interested in joining Airbus:

Work with your . Be a global person, a global . Think about the
future with the maximum passion for , and
.

After you watch

1. Answer the following questions.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.

Do you agree with the advice given in question 4?

In your opinion, what does being a global person involve?
After you complete your studies at this School, what qualification will you get?
Do you intend to continue your academic training or to look for a job?
If you plan to continue your studies, what do you want to study and where?
If the next step in your career is to look for work, what would your ideal job be?
Which of the work places shown in the video would you most like to work in and why?
A typical question at job interviews is Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?
How would you answer this question?

2. Join up with a partner to compare your answers.

3. Remember to take note of useful vocabulary for referring to your education and
qualifications.
Ask your teacher if you need any help with specific words.

Stages in the job hunting process

1. The following flow chart represents the typical stages in the job application process.
You are going to hear six short extracts.
Which speaker refers to each stage? Write the number in the space provided.
Stage 1: Researching yourself
Speaker number .
What are transferable skills?

Stage 2: Searching for a job

Speaker number .
What, in the speakers opinion, is the most efficient way of searching for a job?

Stage 3: Preparing job application materials

Speaker number .
What kind of words is it essential to use in job application materials?

Stage 4: Preparing for the interview

Speaker number .
Besides the company they want to work for, what else should candidates do research on?

Stage 5: Attending the interview

Speaker number .
Why is body language so important at interviews?

Stage 6: Following up on the interview

Speaker number .
Why is it a good idea to contact the company after the interview?
2. Work in pairs. Now listen again and answer the questions.
3. Does any of the information surprise you?

Stage 1: Researching yourself

Understanding the skills employers require and identifying how your personal skills and
competencies match up with their needs constitute the starting point of the job hunting
process.
1. Skills employers want
In addition to the technical expertise and competencies acquired along your degree studies,
engineering employers demand the soft or transferable skills learned through everyday
situations or previous work experience, which can be used in many different types of jobs.
1.1. The following list includes some of the transferable skills employers look for in
candidates.
Do you agree with the list? Discuss your opinions with a partner and add at least one more
skill.

Analysing and investigating

Responsibility and reliability

Communication skills

Teamwork

Commercial awareness

Time management

Initiative / self-motivation

Leadership

1.2. You are going to hear several engineering managers discussing transferable skills.
As you listen, tick the correct option.
1.

Engineers need to be capable of distancing themselves from problems in order to

solve them.

2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

Problems should be analysed from the inside.

Logical thinking processes are a more efficient way of resolving problems.
The key to resolving problems is creativity.
Synthesis is the key to creativity.
Analytic thought processes are the key to creativity.
Getting on with all kinds of people is a crucial life-skill.
An engineer does not need to get on well with all kinds of people.
Engineers will only need to explain their technical knowledge to their counterparts.
Engineers communicate with people who do not share their technical expertise.
Multitasking is important in the engineering profession.
The technical team will handle only one job at a time.

1.3. Which skills are they referring to? Write the corresponding skill next to the comments.

1.4. At various stages of the job application process you will need to demonstrate and
provide evidence of your transferrable skills.
Work in pairs to complete the following table with the skills required or the evidence to
demonstrate them. One has been done to help you.
Then add the transferable skill you suggested in 1.1. and write supporting evidence.
Skills

Evidence

Leadership

Uses speech and writing to give information

or express ideas effectively.

Commercial awareness

Has interest in and knowledge of what is

happening, or likely to occur, in the
professional environment.

Time management

Is able to work effectively with co-workers in

order to achieve objectives.

Can be counted on to follow through

important tasks to the end.

1.5. Self-assessment skills inventory

Once you have identified the skills required by potential employers, a self-assessment of
your own skills will enable you to recognise any items you need to work on in order to
improve your employment prospects.
Rate yourself on each of the skills. Write the corresponding number in the boxes above.
1 = I am very good at this skill.
2 = I am quite good at this skill.
3 = I need to improve on this skill.
4 = I am not very good at this skill.
Look particularly at your lower scoring answers since this will give you some indication as to
the aspects you need to focus on.

2. Personal characteristics: strengths and weaknesses

Your personality will influence your career plans and how you go about putting them into
practice.
2.1. You are going to hear a candidate discussing his strengths and weaknesses.
How would you describe him? Mark the adjectives that apply to him.

2.2 How would you describe your personality?

Which of the adjectives above would you use to describe yourself in a work or study
situation? Add any other useful words. Use a dictionary if necessary.
Write the words under these headings:
Strengths

Weaknesses

10

Stage 2: Searching for a job

1. There are several ways to look for a job:

Job advertisements in the press and specialist journals

On the internet
Networking
Company websites
Social media
Cold calling or writing

1.1. Work with a partner to discuss the follow points:

Can you add one other way to look for a job?
Which of these methods have you used, or do you expect to use, when looking for a
job?
Which do you think will be the most effective way(s) to search for a job?
1.2. You are going to hear several extracts in which the speakers give advice on the most
effective way to look for a job.
1.2.1. The first speaker is a careers advisor. As you listen, choose the most appropriate
option: True (T), False (F), Not mentioned (NM).
1. You should start looking for a job early in your final year of studies.
2. The most frequently used tool for searching for a job is through specialist journals.
3. Cold calling is usually ineffective.
4. Networking involves finding jobs advertised on the internet.
5. Posting your CV online is one of the most successful ways of finding a job.
6. Using ones contacts is an efficient way of searching for a job.
7. This way takes longer but tends to be more successful.
8. Internships are a good way of building a circle of contacts.
1.2.2. In the second extract, several recent graduates discuss their own experience of looking
for a job.
After you listen the first time, answer this question: Which of the previous points do they all
mention?
Listen again and answer the following questions.
1. When do they recommend starting looking for a job?
2. Why is cold calling a good method?
3. Networking is a good way of getting your foot in the door, but what must you do
then?

11

2. Where to look for a job

This section deals in more depth with two ways of job hunting discussed in the previous
section: the use of social media and specialist job advertisements.
2.1. Social media
The term social media refers to online platforms, such as LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook or
other community discussion boards where people can post information, exchange ideas and
comment. Using social media can extend your professional network outside your immediate
circle, and so increase your career opportunities.
You are going to read some tips for using the key components of social media in job hunting.
Work with a partner to tick the points you agree with and to correct those you disagree with.
LinkedIn
1.
2.
3.

LinkedIn is more informal than other social media sites.

It is relevant for professionals from all fields.
Many organisations recruit graduates by posting job vacancies on the LinkedIn

student job profile.

4.
5.
6.

Your LinkedIn profile should describe you in a way that targets the role you are
looking for.

It should mainly list factual information about dates and responsibilities.

You should use keywords so that potential employers will find you when searching

for these terms.

7.
8.
Twitter
1.
2.

Do not include a photo.

Ask your contacts to make personal recommendations about your capabilities.
Twitter is more informal than other social media sites.
You can follow companies or individuals that you would like to work for and send

them messages in order to start a dialogue.

3.
4.

You can apply directly to jobs posted here.

You can have only one Twitter account.

Facebook
1.

Facebook is widely used by organisations to communicate with staff, customers and

the public.
2.
3.

It is only rarely used to recruit potential candidates.

You should adjust your privacy settings to limit what employers can see on your

personal pages.
4.
5.

It is illegal for potential employees to vet candidates by accessing their Facebook

pages.
Your posts do not need to be grammatically appropriate and correctly spelt.

12

2.2. Analysing job advertisements

Read the advertisement below. Work with a partner to answer the following questions.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.

Which company is seeking to hire new staff?

Where is the job based?
Applicants from which branch of engineering are eligible?
Underline the examples of work tasks described in the text.
What qualifications are required?
Underline the personal skills and qualities explained in the text.
When is the closing date for applications?

BAE SYSTEMS
Job title: Graduate Aeronautical Engineer
Closing date: Continuous recruitment
Location: UK North West

Job description
Military Air & Information is the air sector of BAE Systems, responsible for the design and
build of fixed wing military and training aircraft, as well as providing training, support and
information services for the UK RAF and other customers worldwide.
An example of the opportunities on offer might be within Airworthiness i.e. the Airworthiness
team assure safe Aircraft Design and Operation through independent review and delivery of
Product Safety to meet our customer and corporate requirements.
On a graduate placement, an individual would be expected to be involved in a number of
areas in order to develop a broad understanding of fast jet systems and the activities
undertaken in the development and maintenance of such systems.

Person requirements

A foundation knowledge of Aeronautical Engineering

To apply you need at least 280 UCAS points (or equivalent excluding
general studies). Predicted or obtained 2:1 degree in Aeronautical
Engineering and the right to work in the UK post-graduation.
Analytical approach and the ability to apply this to problem solving.
Ability to work effectively in a team.
Excellent presentation and communication skills.
Ability to work with people from technical and business backgrounds.
Commercial awareness.

Accepted degree subjects

Engineering, aerospace

-------------------------------(Retrieved from http://www.prospects.ac.uk/graduate_job_search.htm)

13

2.3. After you read, discuss these points:

BAE Systems

What do you know about the company?

Person requirements

In what ways are you, or do you expect to be, qualified for this kind of entry-level job?

Do you have the person requirements demanded?

Job description
Rewrite the job description so that it matches the tasks, skills and knowledge required of a
graduate from your specialisation. Begin An example of the opportunities on offer might be

...

________________________________
Assignment: 1
This assignment forms part of the evaluation of your work on this unit.
You must hand in this work on the date indicated by your teacher.
______________________
Instructions
1. Research several of the means for looking for a job and choose an
advertisement for a position that you would like to apply for.
2. Analyse the advert using the questions in exercises 2.2. and 2.3. Write your
answers.
3. You should also write a short text explaining why you would like to be
considered for the post and whether you have the skills and personal qualities
required. Write about 75 words.
4. Job interview question. If you are hired, what do you expect to be doing in your
first months working here?
a) Vocabulary: use words from the job offer or your own ideas and write at
least three words next to each of the headings:
- Key words:
- Work stations:
- The workforce:
- Technical tasks:
b) Give your answer to the interview question. Use words you have included in
4a) and write your response. In a job interview you would be expected to
speak for about two minutes.
5. You must hand in a copy of the advert, together with your assignment.
Remember to keep a copy of the job offer; you will need it for future
assignments.

14

E-recruiting (video lesson 2)

E-recruiting consists of using online processes in order to select personnel. Nowadays most
large engineering firms only accept applications submitted online.
You are going to watch a video in which Lois Benquet, a global sourcing expert for the EADS
recruitment centre, explains how to apply using the EADS recruiting procedure.

Before you watch: Discussion

Work in pairs and discuss these questions.

What do you think are the advantages of e-recruiting from the point of view of the
firm?
Do you think this way of applying is advantageous for the candidate?

Global viewing task

Put the following points in the order in which the speaker first mentions them.

Advice on writing CVs

EADS feedback on online applications
How to search for a job with EADS
Pre-qualifying interviews
The application process

The composition of the recruitment centres teams

The importance of releasing your online profile
The recruitment centres mission
The selection process
The technical interview

Viewing task
As you watch the video again, tick the correct information.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.

Each of the EADS divisions has its own recruitment centre.

Airbus, Astrium, Cassidian and Eurocopter share the same recruitment services.
The global sourcing team is based in Toulouse.
The main hubs of the EADS group are located in France, Germany, Spain and the UK.
You must apply directly to vacancies that are currently open.
You should release your profile at the start of the application process.
The first people to study online applications are from the global sourcing team.
A candidates technical knowledge is assessed at a pre-qualifying interview.
Regardless of the country, all CVs should adopt the same style and conventions.
Candidates can only apply in English.

After you watch

Join up with a partner to compare your answers; then correct the false information.
Does any of the information surprise you?

15

Stage 3: Preparing job application materials

The first steps in the selection process involve writing job application documents. These
usually consist of a curriculum vitae (CV), a cover letter, an application form and,
occasionally, personal statements (as a separate document or as part of an application).
No matter how skilled or experienced you are, your written application is your first, crucial,
chance to demonstrate your value to potential employers: if your application lets you down,
you probably will not get any further in the selection process.
1. The application process
There is no one single application procedure adopted by all organisations. However, most
employers now use online application processes, although you will still need to present
hardcopy versions of your application materials at some point. In all your applications, you
must make sure you follow all the recruiters instructions and if in doubt, contact them.
1. 1. Some basic principles for presenting job application materials
Read the following advice and work with a partner to answer the questions.

Use plain, good quality paper.

What size?

Make sure your texts are reader-friendly.

How?

Use professional-looking fonts.

Which font, what size?

Proof read carefully.

Why?

1.2. Can you think of any other general advice? Work with another pair to think of at least
two tips.

2. Job application materials: Introduction

2.1. The CV (short for curriculum vitae), or rsum, is a key document in the job search.
It provides a summary of a candidates experience and other qualifications.
Answer these questions in pairs.

How many pages is a typical CV?

What do you think is its main purpose? ..

16

2.2. A cover letter accompanies a CV as way of introducing the candidate to potential

employers and of complementing the information provided in the CV.
Working in the same pairs, answer these questions.

How long should a cover letter be?

What do you think is its main purpose? ..

2.3. Whether online or paper versions, application forms will be required at some stage of
the recruitment process. They ask for similar details to a CV and may also give the
opportunity to provide additional information in support of your application.
In pairs, answer these questions.

What advantages do application forms offer to the recruiter?

What do you think could be the most serious mistake a candidate might make when
filling in an application form? ..

2.4. Work in pairs and decide in which application material you would usually give the
following information.
Tick the corresponding boxes (more than one may be appropriate). Put a cross against any
information you would definitely not include.
Would you include any other points, and where?
Application form*

Curriculum vitae (CV)

Availability for
interview
Contact details
Date of birth
Details of the job
vacancy
Diplomas and
certificates
Employers
addresses
Examinations at
school level
Knowledge of
languages
Leisure interests

17

Cover letter

Marital status
Nationality
References
Salary conditions

* As such, application forms will not be covered in this unit; but check the link to interactive
exercises for completing online applications (appendix 2, page 44: Resources for preparing
application materials and job interviews).
3. Writing an effective CV
Your CV and cover letter are the first impression you offer a potential employer. To be
effective, a CV should provide a concise and easy-to-follow summary of your qualifications
and show the recruiter that you have the skills and experience to do the job you are applying
for. It will also act as a roadmap for interviewers during the job interview.
3.1. Points to remember
Work with a partner to complete this list of recommendations for writing CVs.
Write Do or Dont in the corresponding spaces.
1.

.. tailor your CV to

2.

.. put

3.

.. use specific

each job you apply for.

the key information at the top of your CV.

examples to back up any information you give about skills,

achievements and experiences.

4.

..

lie. You will be questioned about your CV during the interview.

5.

..

pay attention to the job description and personal requirements.

6.

..

repeat your CV in your cover letter.

7.

..

make mistakes in grammar and spelling.

8.

..

write long sentences.

9.

..

use a professional email address.

10.

..

include a photo.

11.

..

write Curriculum vitae at the top of your CV.

12.

..

18

3.1.2. From an experts viewpoint

You are going to hear several human resources experts giving advice on writing CVs.
Which of the previous recommendations do they comment on?
Work with a partner and tick the points they mention. Add any other advice given.
3.2. Types of CV
Depending on your work history, experience and achievements, you may want to employ
one of these types of CV:
The chronological approach, the most frequently-used structure, presents
information in a reverse chronological order, with work experience placed in the
most prominent place.
A functional (or skill-based) CV focuses on, and gives evidence of, the candidates
skills and competencies.
The combined, or hybrid, type of CV is a mixture of a chronological and a functional
approach, focusing on the functional structure but also listing skills and
achievements in a reverse chronological order.
Work in pairs and decide on the most suitable type for the following candidates CVs. Explain
your choice.
1. A recent graduate who has some, but limited, work experience gained through
internships and unpaid voluntary work.

2. This candidate has a strong employment history and aims to further his career in a
new post.

3. This worker wants to target his skills, as well as demonstrating how his career
has evolved.

4. Which structure do you think you will use in your first job applications?

3.3. Headings
There are no formal rules about the headings to be used in your CV: the information you
include and the headings you employ will vary depending on the post being applied for and
on the stage you have reached in your career.
Work in pairs. Underline the headings which will always appear and mark with an asterisk
those which are optional.

Personal and contact details

Skills

Personal profile / career objective

Additional information

Education

Achievements

Relevant work experience

Interests

Other work experience

References

19

Template for an online CV: The Boeing rsum

-------------------------------(Retrieved from http://www.worksourceonline.com)

20

Sample CV for an entry-level aerospace engineer

Steven L. Holmes
5 West Lane Sometown, GA 30332 (555) 555-5555 [email protected]

Upcoming graduate of ABET-accredited bachelors-degree program seeking an entrylevel aerospace engineer position. Completed flight test internship with XYZ Company
and assisted in research study that examined methods for improving Boeing 737 flight
acoustics. Academic studies have provided a foundation in aerodynamics and physics;
structural dynamics; systems design and testing; flight mechanics and controls; and
2D and 3D CAD design tools.
EDUCATION
ABC UNIVERSITY (Sometown, GA)
Pursuing BS in Aerospace Engineering (GPA: 3.7), degree expected June 2012
Program Highlights:
Computing for Engineers
Engineering Graphics & Visualization
Principles & Applications of Engineering
Materials
Low-Speed & High-Speed Aerodynamics
Differential Equations
System Dynamics & Control
Thermodynamics & Compressible Flow
Aerospace Vehicle Performance

Circuits & Electronics

Mechanics of Deformable
Bodies
Aerospace Structural
Analysis
Flight Dynamics
Jet & Rocket Propulsion
Experimental Fluid Dynamics
Aeroelasticity
Control Systems Design

EXPERIENCE
XYZ COMPANY (Sometown, GA)
Leading aerospace company and manufacturer of commercial jetliners.
Flight Test Engineer Intern, May 2011 to August 2011
Shadowed aerospace engineering and mechanical teams and helped prepare flight
and advance fabrication reports, weight and balance forms and flight test safety
checklists for new aircraft. Participated in test coordination meetings, on-aircraft
ground testing and instrumentation installs.
Increased knowledge of aircraft systems, flight test program procedures,
documentation and regulatory requirements.
Served on team that conducted flight readiness reviews for new aircraft. Helped
perform ground/electromagnetic interference tests, fit checks and remote site
test preparations.
Prepared detailed test plans, reports and documentation in compliance with FAA
regulations.
Gained competencies in a range of engineering disciplines and systems
including structural design, aerodynamics, stress analysis, fluid power systems,
fuel systems and test instrumentation.
21

ABC UNIVERSITY (Sometown, GA)

Research Assistant, Department of Aerospace Engineering, September 2010 to
May 2011
Assisted Professor Susan Jones in her study of flight acoustics and the suppression of
noise for Boeing 737 commercial aircraft using the universitys state-of-the-art flightsimulator facilities. Participated in planning meetings and data analysis for paper that
is under review for publication in the Journal of Aerospace Engineering.
COMPUTER SKILLS
AutoCAD, MathCAD, C++, Python, MS Excel, MS Project, Unix/Linux
-------------------------------(Retrieved from http://career-advice.monster.com )
Remember that your CV is your own personal document. You should, therefore, research
several CVs before deciding on the most appropriate format, content, etc. for you. Check the
online resources for preparing application materials (appendix 2, page 44).
3.4. Useful language
3.4.1. Look at the following extracts from personal profiles.
Which do you think is/are more persuasive and why?
Extract 1
A highly motivated engineering graduate who has just completed a degree in electronics
engineering at the University of Liverpool.
Seeking a position in the industrial sector, preferably in the research and development division.

Extract 2
I am hard working, a good communicator and well-organised. I am a team manager, able to
work well both in a team and individually. I work well under pressure and can meet deadlines.
Also, I am a good problem-solver and have a creative mind.

Extract 3
A recent graduate from City University London, with a 2:1 honours degree in industrial
engineering.
Have developed specific industry experience by means of internships within leading
organisations such as Rolls-Royce and BAE Systems.

22

3.4.2. Circle the correct option in this advice about the language to be used in CVs:

To describe your personality and/or skills, use:

- one or two adjectives.
- I am .
To refer to your ideal next stage in your professional career, use:
- ing verb forms.
- I want to .
To comment on achievements, use:
- I + past verb form in complete sentences.
- present perfect or past simple with no subject.
To highlight your tasks and skills, use:
- action verbs.
- I had to . I was involved in .

3.4.3. Action words

Action words are those that express doing, achieving, obtaining results, etc. They are
important power words in CVs and cover letters for describing strengths, abilities and
achievements.
Which of the following is more concise and direct? Circle the correct option.
I was the head of a team that . . . or Managed a team that . . .
For final-year project, conducted survey of ... or For my final-year project, I had to conduct
survey of ...
'Duties included writing technical reports' or 'Wrote technical reports'
The range of action words that can be used is extensive. This table contains just a small
sample of verbs. Consult the resources for preparing application materials (appendix 2, page
44) for more power words, together with an analysis of their use.
achieved, analysed, assembled, conducted, constructed, completed, dealt with,
demonstrated, designed, developed, engineered, established, evaluated, fixed, focused,
gained, generated, handled, improved, increased, installed, launched, maintained, managed,
modified, obtained, operated, performed, planned, presented, produced, researched,
resolved, selected, solved, transformed, undertook, upgraded, used, won, wrote
3.4.4. Active vs. passive forms
Which of the following targets the writers achievements? Circle the correct option.

Collated data or Data was collated

A database was used to keep track of data collected. or Used database to (...)

3.4.5. Word count: fewer is better

Which words have been omitted in these sentences, and why?

Analysed test results

Participated in planning meetings and data analysis

23

3.5. Preparing your CV in different formats

There are no fixed rules on how to format CVs. Your CV is your own personal document and
the format employed will vary according to the situation.
Work with a partner and imagine you are recruiters receiving CVs in the following situations.
What differences would you expect to find in the physical presentation and format?

A hardcopy CV sent by post or handed over at an interview or to a networking contact.

An online CV to be viewed on a screen.
A CV posted on a job board.

________________________________

Assignment: 2
This assignment forms part of the evaluation of your work on this unit.
You must hand in the printed, formatted, version of your CV on the date indicated by your
teacher.
______________________
The sample CV (page 20) is a non-formatted guide to provide ideas of how to structure and
what to include in your own rsum. DO NOT COPY IT DIRECTLY!
Instructions

PLAN

WRITE

AFTER YOU WRITE

Tailor your CV to the job

description and person
specifications indicated in
the job advertisement (see
assignment 1).

Write your CV so that

you can catch the
readers attention within
seconds, focusing those
points which a potential
employer will find more
valuable.

Check your work using this

checklist:
- The content is targeted to the
job vacancy.

Write clearly, concisely

and accurately, using the
appropriate professional
tone and technical
language.

- The design and layout are

clear.

Think about your work

experience (internships,
summer jobs, volunteer
work) and achievements
(extracurricular activities,
research work, course
projects) and identify what
you have to offer employers.
Organise your CV so that it
focuses on your strengths
and downplays any
shortcomings you may have.

- The content and its

presentation are readerfriendly.

- The appropriate tone, style and

language are employed.
- There are no errors in grammar
or spelling.

________________________________

24

3.6. CVs vs. LinkedIn profiles

In addition to the curriculum vitae, which is essential for a successful job application, an
online presence is also increasingly important.
A LinkedIn profile is a powerful tool for the job search, enabling companies to look for
candidates among LinkedIn members by searching for keywords referring to skills and
qualifications.

It is similar to, but not the same as, a CV.

Which of the following information do you think refers to CVs and which to LinkedIn
profiles? Write CV or L (LinkedIn) next to the corresponding points.
Recommendations: personal connections who can say something about you,
your work, strengths, etc.
.. Static: cannot be revised to reflect updates, recommendations
and interactions with others.
.. Length: not limited to one or two pages
.. Personal statements: provide specific details relating to the candidate and
the job specification and illustrate how you match the requirements
.. Language: write in the first person; use I
.. Key words: emphasise your personality, skills and achievements
.. Contact details: adjust privacy settings to protect confidential data
.. Photo: must be professional
.. Include a link: encourage people to find out more about you
..

Catherine Haughey
[In the professional headline box,
you should use key words
that distinguish you from the competition]

Aerospace engineer Advanced concepts R & D Aero-engines

Project management Aerospace materials, structures and systems
No preferred job location, willing to relocate
Current: Product manager at GE Aircraft Engines (West Drayton, United Kingdom)
25

Previous: Mechanical Design Engineer at General Aeronautical Systems (Stockbridge, United

Kingdom)
Education: MSc in Advanced Engineering Materials (University of Manchester); BEng
Aerospace Engineering (University of Sheffield)
Summary: I am experienced in all phases of aero engine development, with a broad
knowledge of aircraft subsystems such as structures, propulsion, electronics, avionics...
| Read More

--------------------------------

[You should use the summary to explain your background

and the key points in your career, together with your professional
achievements.
Use from around 50 words to a maximum of 2,000 characters.
The style should be more personal than in conventional CVs, using I + verb +
noun structure, rather than action verbs: e.g. I wrote technical reports - not
technical report writer -, or I analysed stress test results - rather than
analysis of stress test results.]

(Sample extract from LinkedIn profile, adapted)

4. Writing a successful cover letter
A cover letter must always accompany your curriculum vitae, to introduce you and your CV.
It should give the right impression in order to achieve its purpose: to get the recruiter to read
your CV.
There are two main types of cover letter: the targeted letter is a reply to a specific job
advertisement, while a speculative letter is used in cold contacts.
4.1. Test what you know
The structure of both targeted and speculative letters is very similar and, in order to be
successful, they should be presented according to the rules of standard business
correspondence.
Work in pairs and decide:

how to organise the senders contact information and what details to include.
how and where to write the date.
how to organise and write the receivers details.
any other information to be included in the letter heading.

26

4.2. Organising the cover letter

Read the sample cover letter below and match paragraphs A-E with their content.

1. reference to future contact

2. reason for writing
3. relevant study modules
4. suitability for the job
5. expression of interest in the post
6. reference to the job advertisement
7. current academic situation
8. reference to work experience
9. transferable skills

A
Introduction

B
Main body

C
Main body

D
Main body

E
Conclusion

I am writing to express my interest in joining ACM Semiconductors as an entry

level graduate. I am currently studying a degree in electrical engineering at the
University of Leeds and expect to graduate in July 2012. My objective upon
completing my studies is to become a design engineer in the semiconductor
industry.
I learned about the electrical engineering position with ACM Semiconductors on
the web site: http://www.engineerjobs and am interested in discussing this
opportunity further.
As my enclosed CV indicates, I have successfully completed courses directly
related to automatic identification and digital design systems. My studies have
also given me practical experience during summer vacation work in the
electronics industry and a yearlong industrial placement at Cooper Systems,
where I successfully helped develop motor controller accessories.
As an undergraduate, I have collaborated with the Students Union, where I
have enhanced my organisational and teamwork skills through the everyday
management of events.
I believe my coursework and work experience in electrical engineering will be a
valuable asset in helping your division achieve its goals, and look forward to
meeting you to discuss the job position further. I will contact you before June 5th
in order to discuss my application. If you wish to contact me, my phone number,
email address and LinkedIn profile are listed above. Thank you for your time and
consideration.

4.3. Setting out your letter

Single-space your letter
Leave a space between each paragraph
Leave a space between your contact information and opening (e.g. Dear Mr Smith)
Leave three spaces between your closing (e.g. Yours sincerely) and your typed name
Either align all paragraphs to the left of the page or indent the first line of each
paragraph to the right
Sign your name between your closing and typed name

________________________________

27

Assignment: 3
This assignment forms part of the evaluation of your work on this unit.
You must hand in the printed version of your cover letter on the date indicated by your
teacher.
______________________
Instructions
The sample cover letter (page 27) is a guide to provide ideas of how to structure and what
content to include in your letter. DO NOT COPY IT DIRECTLY!
______________________

PLAN

WRITE

AFTER YOU WRITE

Tailor your cover letter to

your CV (see assignment 2).

Write a cover letter of

about 300 words.

Check your work using this

checklist:

Consider what you have to

offer: skills, experience and
personal qualities and how
they match the employers
needs (see assignment 1).

Target your qualifications,

experience, skills, etc. to
the particular employer.

- The letter is written following

the structure and layout for
business correspondence.

Write clearly and

concisely, using the
appropriate register,
language and vocabulary.

- It is one page in length.

Do not use a standard

template.

- The letter is addressed to a

particular person.
- The style is formal.
- The four or five paragraphs
provide the necessary, and
targeted, information.
- The grammar, vocabulary and
spelling are all accurate.

28

Stage 4: Preparing for the interview

If your job application materials have made a good impression and you have been
shortlisted for the job interview, the next stage is to prepare for the interview.
1. Work in pairs and discuss these questions.

Have you ever attended a job interview?

What advice would you give to a recent graduate preparing for their first job
interview?

2. You are going to hear a university careers advisor giving recommendations on how to
prepare for a job interview.
2.1. Before you listen
The following sentences appear in the extract you are going to listen to. Work alone and use
the context to work out what the underlined words mean. Tick the correct option.
Its great to sound enthusiastic, but its also
important to sound knowledgeable.

knowledgeable means:

famous or celebrated
knowing a lot about many different

subjects or about one particular subject

Note any competencies you highlight in your
CV.

highlight means:

to describe something in a way that makes

people notice it

to make or become more intense

Anticipate any delays, do a dummy run if
necessary.

dummy run means:

something that is made to look like a real

object, and which is used for practising
something

a test of something in which you practise

doing it before doing it in a real situation
The best way to prepare is to have a mock
interview.

mock interview means:

a model of something that is the same size

as the real thing, used for research or testing

something that you do in order to practise

for the real event
Prepare and rehearse soundbites about
yourself.

rehearse means:

to practise something you are going to say

or do

29

 to discover or verify information for use in

a book, programme, etc.
soundbite means:

the exact words as spoken or written by

somebody

a short comment taken from a longer

conversation because it is very interesting or
effective
Dont allow last minute hitches.

hitch means:

a sharp increase, especially in price or cost

a temporary difficulty or problem
Compare your version with a classmates answers.
2.2. First look at the list of recommendations, then listen to the speaker and identify the
tip(s) she does not refer to.
Compare your answers with a partner.

Analyse yourself: your strengths, weaknesses and achievements and how they
match the companys needs.

Be prepared to go through your CV with the interviewers.

Check your own online presence.
Decide what clothes to wear.
Find out the kind of job interview you will be attending.
Know about the companys competitors and the industrial sector.
Plan your journey.
Prepare copies of any documents you might need.
Prepare your answers to common interview questions.
Rehearse the interview.
Study as much as you can about the company.
Think of some questions to ask the interviewers.
3. Types of job interviews
The type of interview you will be invited to attend depends on the kind of job you are
applying for and the particular stage of the recruitment process: virtual interviews (via
telephone, e-mail, video- or tele-conferencing) are increasingly used to make the first sift of
candidates, while competency based-interviews are structured to enable the candidates to
demonstrate the competencies and skills that the organisation requires.
You are going to hear a recruiter discussing the competency-based interview procedures
which shortlisted candidates might be faced with.

30

As you listen, complete the sentences. Use no more than three words.
Before, when people applied for a job, they usually just
1.
This typically consisted of no more than
2.
The disadvantage of this kind of interview was that it didnt give a true indication of
3.
For instance, if a candidate says they have good presentation skills, the recruiter needs to see
4.
Consequently, nowadays candidates attend interview sessions that may take
5.
and consist of a
6.
4. Common interview questions
The purpose of the interview is for the recruiter to find out whether:
you have the skills to do the job properly.
you will fit in with the organisations working culture and environment.
you are sufficiently motivated to do the job.
The questions they ask will be focused on this objective.
4.1. Match each question with the question-type. Write the number next to each question.

Why do you want to work for us?

1. Icebreakers

What are the different fields of aerospace

engineering and why did you choose your
specialisation?
Is your academic record a good indication

of how you will perform in this job?

2. Questions about the organisation

Tell us about the best teacher you have

ever had. What made him/her such a
memorable teacher?
Tell us about yourself. How would your
31

3. Questions about the job itself

friends describe you?

You say on your application that you have

used specialised computer software. Could
you explain what you have used it for?
What interests and skills would help

somebody as an aerospace engineer?

4. Questions about you and your background

Could you give us an example of how you

would explain a complicated procedure to
someone who was new to the situation?
Describe an occasion when you had to

5. Questions about your skills and

commercial awareness

persuade others to your point of view.

What do you think are the greatest

challenges facing the aerospace sector?
Tell us about your university studies. Why

6. Questions about your technical knowledge

did you decide to study this degree?

What do you know about this company?

How was your weekend?
7. Questions about your CV

What are your best skills for this job?

Can you think of one more question to include for each question-type? Work in pairs and
write your question in the corresponding box on the left.
4.2. Answering interview questions
Use the STAR structure in your response to questions that begin Describe a situation Tell
me about a time .
STAR stands for:

S = Situation: set the context for your story. For example, if the question asks for an
example of teamwork, explain what project you were working on, who you were
working with and where, etc.

T = Task: describe what was required of you. Explain the task that you had to perform
as a team and, in detail, what you personally did, how and why you did it, and so on.

A = Action: say what you actually did, the steps you took. Mention the skills you
employed and the personal strengths that were involved.
32

R = Result: explain how well the situation turned out, and how your actions
contributed to the success of the situation. Comment what you learned or gained from
the experience.

Practise answering this type of questions from the previous exercise.

4.3. Answering difficult interview questions
Challenging interview questions are not necessarily looking for a right or wrong answer: they
are looking at how candidates think on the spot.
Work in pairs and decide the best way to answer these difficult questions.

Why are you leaving your present job?

How long do you think would you stay in the position?
What is your biggest weakness?
Describe a time when you failed.
Imagine one of your bosses loses his temper and shouts at you in front of others, how
would you deal with this?
What would you say to a member of your team who was always late handing in his
teamwork?

Join up with another pair and compare your answers. Which is the best answer proposed for
each question?
4.4. Preparing questions of your own
Interviewing is a two-way process. On the one hand, the interviewers want to select the
most suitable person to fill the vacancy; and, on the other, the candidates can, and should,
ask questions. Indeed, for some recruiters, a candidates having no questions can indicate a
lack of preparation for the interview or, even worse, of no independent thought process.
You must, however, ask the right questions in order to show the interviewers that you have
prepared the interview carefully and to allow you to demonstrate your knowledge of the
company and its industry.
Work with a partner and decide which of the following questions are appropriate. Then add
one more question to the list.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.

What specific qualities and skills are you looking for in the candidates?
Could you show me some examples of projects that Id be working on?
What salary could I expect?
What are the next steps in the selection process?
When can I expect to hear from you?
What does a typical day look like for the employee in this post?
Does the company provide continued training?
What holidays will I be entitled to?
How do you see me as a candidate for the post, compared to the ideal candidate?

33

5. A mock interview
Remember that the interview starts immediately after you set foot inside the building where
the interview is being held: whoever you talk to (from the receptionist on) and whatever you
talk about (from accepting or turning down a coffee) can be, and often is, used by recruiters
to filter candidates.
You are going to prepare for a job interview by participating in a mock interview. You will
work in groups of four:

Student A will be the candidate: you should answer the interviewers questions using
the information you have provided in your CV and cover letter. You should also have
one question ready to ask your interviewers.
Students B and C will be interviewers: you should decide which of the job interview
questions to ask (5 in total)
Student D will be the observer: you should take notes on the candidates
performance using the table on the next page.

5.1. Take turns so that each of you will be the candidate, an interviewer and the observer.

34

Feedback form for mock interview

Candidate:

Performance*

First Impression*
Body Language*

Questions asked:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Closing the Interview:
Candidates question:
* Key for rating
3 points = Excellent
2 points = Good
(would not be a problem in a job interview)
1 point = Fair
(needs improvement)
0 points = Poor
(would be a serious problem in an interview)

Total Points: _______ (out of 27)

Interpretation:

23-27 points: Youre hired!

19-23 points: You may get the job, but there are other candidates in the running too!
18-14 points: Your getting the job is doubtful; you need more interview practice.
13-9 points: You are unlikely to get the job; you need much more interview practice.
0-7 points: Sorry, theres no job for you today; you definitely need to do much more
work on preparation and planning for job interviews.

5.2. Feedback
As the observer, which one piece of advice would you give to this candidate?

________________________________
35

Assignment: 4
This assignment forms part of the evaluation of your work on this unit.
You must hand in the printed version of this work on the date indicated by your teacher.
______________________
Instructions
Prepare for the interview. Answer the following questions with your own personal
information.
1. About your academic background

Which part of your degree course did you enjoy most? Why did you like it?
Have you started work on your final year project? Can you tell me about it?

2. About your work experience

Have you had any jobs during your studies, summer jobs or volunteer work?
In what ways did you benefit from this work experience?

3. About yourself

What do you do in your free time? What hobbies and interests do you have?
Can you describe an important challenge in your life?
What are your career goals?
Where do you see yourself in five years time?

36

Stage 5: Attending the interview

Introduction: How savvy are you?
You have five minutes to do our last-minute quiz on interview etiquette.
1. What should you wear for an interview?

A suit and tie (or equivalent for women).

Whatever matches the company policy.
Whatever you feel conformable in.
2. You should arrive for the interview

on time.
10 minutes before.
half an hour before.

3. What should you not bring to the interview?

Copies of your CV, along with a list of

6. What would be your response to What

questions do you have for us?

None at the moment.

When will I be entitled to holidays?
How do you see me as a candidate for the job,
in comparison with your ideal candidate?
7. You are less likely to be hired if interviewed

first.
last.
It doesn't matter.

8. Which personal qualities impress interviewers

most?

Your laptop or iPad.

A bottle of water.

Sense of humour, enthusiasm, appearance

Appearance, verbal skills, honesty
Honesty, enthusiasm, verbal skills

How do you do?

I'm fine and you?
Good and you?

In the first few minutes of the interview.

About halfway through the interview.
After the interview, when discussing all the

references.

4. The interviewer asks 'How do you do? Do you

answer

9. When do recruiters make up their minds

about a candidate?

5. Which of the following is inappropriate

interview behaviour?

candidates with the panel.

10. Your cell phone rings during an interview, do
you

question.

that moment?

Admitting that you dont know the answer to a answer it and explain that you cannot talk at

Sitting down without being invited to do so.

reach for the phone and hit the 'off' button
Shaking hands firmly and introducing yourself. immediately?
look at the interviewers and say 'I'm so sorry. I
was so caught up in preparing for my interview
that I forgot to turn it off?

Discuss your answers with a classmate and check your score here.

9-10 points? The jobs yours!

6-8 points? Passable. You should go through the answers and think about why you
chose your response.
0-5 points? You really do need to spend more time planning in order to present
yourself in a positive light at job interviews.

37

Assignment: 5 Your job interview

Follow your teachers instructions for this assignment.

Stage 6: Following up on the interview

1. Self-assessment: Rate your performance at the job interview.
After a job interview you should assess your performance, taking note of your strong points
and of what you could do to improve your interview skills.
On a scale from 1 5 (5 being the highest), rate yourself on the following aspects:

Were you punctual?

2. Did you greet the interviewer appropriately?
3. Did you introduce yourself clearly and professionally?
4. Did you speak calmly and confidently throughout the interview?
5. Was your nonverbal communication appropriate?
6. Was there good rapport between the interviewer and you?
7. Did you provide clear examples of your strengths?
8. Did you comment on your weaknesses in a positive tone?
9. Did you handle the difficult questions with ease?
10. Did you ask good questions about the job?
11. Did you request information about what to expect next?
12. Did the interview end on a positive note?
1.

2. Follow-up notes
In the event that all the other candidates are as impressive as you, which of the following
factors do you think will give you an edge?

Knowing more about the organisation than any other candidate

Sending a follow-up note to the interviewers
Keeping contact through regular phone calls and emails to the recruiters

While a follow-up letter or email is not going to get the job for a poor candidate, many
recruiters agree that following up on the interview is a critical part of job hunting.

38

1. Purpose
Work with a partner to decide on the purpose of this kind of correspondence. Tick the
correct option(s). Is it

to be polite?
to express your gratitude?
to make yourself more memorable to the interviewers?
to convince them you are the right candidate?

2. Structure and content: plan

Formal greeting

Paragraph 1: Explain why you are writing: to thank the interviewer and express your
appreciation of the company and the opportunity to work there.

Paragraph 2: Explain how your skills match the job requirements and how you will add value to
the organisation. Additionally, you might take the opportunity to expand on or to improve on
any answer given during the interview.

Paragraph 3: Emphasise your enthusiasm for the opportunity and offer to provide more
information.

Formal ending

2.1. Use the plan to organise the paragraphs in this follow-up letter.
= paragraph 1
= paragraph 2
. = paragraph 3
.

As mentioned during the interview, I will be graduating in . . with a

degree in. . Through my education and experience I have gained

many skills, such as

as well as an understanding of concepts

like . You mentioned that you need someone who has strong .
skills, and this is an area in which I excel: as we discussed, at university I
.....

Again, thank you for considering me for this exciting opportunity. I look forward to the
possibility of joining your team. Please feel free to contact me if you need additional

information or have any questions. I can be reached by phone on (...) or by e-mail at

(..),
Thank you for meeting me this morning to discuss the position of . . I enjoyed

our conversation, which served to reinforce my strong interest in becoming a part of your
team.

39

2.2. After your interview fill in the gaps in the text in order to construct your own follow-up
letter.
2.3. If you were writing an email, what subject line would you use?
Discuss your ideas with a partner.

________________________________

Assignment: 6 After the job interview

This assignment consists of two exercises, which form part of the evaluation of your work
on this unit.
You have 15 minutes to do them and you must hand in both exercises to your teacher
before you leave the interview room.
1. Self-assessment of your performance at the interview
Copy this and write your rating (exercise 1 page 38).
Question 1 .
.Question 2 .
.Question 3 .
.Question 4 .
.Question 5 .
.Question 6 .
.Question 7 .
.Question 8 .
.Question 9 .
.Question 10 .
.Question 11 .
.Question 12 .
.

2. Handwrite your follow-up letter.

Your letter must be addressed to your teacher and must target the job application materials
you have submitted and the interview you have just attended.

40

Appendix 1: Common interview questions

1. According to a post-interview survey, the two most frequent questions at graduate job
interviews were:

Why do you want to work for this organisation?

Have you got any questions?

2. Other common questions

2.1. Questions about you:

A key skill in the engineering workplace is the ability to take initiative. Can you
describe a situation where you did this?

Are you prepared to relocate?

Are you willing to travel?

Can you give us a recent example of a situation in which you have worked effectively
as part of a team?

Describe a situation where you had to make a difficult decision / to plan or organise
something / had to take responsibility as a leader / had to solve a problem.

Describe your ideal job.

Describe yourself as a person.

Describe yourself as an employee.

Did you do an internship? What was the most challenging thing about it?

Do you perform well under stress? Describe a situation in which you had to work
under stress.

Do you plan to continue your education?

Do you prefer to work by yourself or with others?

Do you think your technical expertise will help us achieve results?

Have you ever achieved something you didn't think you could? What was it?

How do you handle these types of situations: deadlines, work frustrations, difficult
people and absurd rules?

How does your work experience relate to this position?

How have you demonstrated organisational skills?

How have you grown or changed over the past few years?

How long do you think you would stay with the company if you were appointed?

In your CV, you say you are interested in (). Tell us about this.

Tell us about your final year project. What did you learn from it?

Tell us about yourself.

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What are your career goals?

What are your hobbies?

What are your strengths/weaknesses?

What computer skills do you have?

What did you enjoy/dislike most about your university studies?

What do you expect to be doing in 5 years time?

What is important to you in a job?

What is your worst fault, and what is your best quality?

What were your favourite subjects /course components at university?

What would your references say about you?

When you were at high school, what other careers did you consider?

Who else have you applied to/got interviews with?

Why did you choose your degree and what factors influenced your choice?

Why do you think you are qualified for this position?

2.2. Questions about the job, the company and the industrial sector:

How long do you expect to remain employed with this company?

Is there anything we haven't told you about the job or company that you would like to
know?

We have a lot of applicants for this position, why should we hire you?

What can you do for this company?

What do you expect from this job?

What do you know about this company?

What do you see yourself doing in your first month working here?

What do you think are the main challenges facing this industry?

What interests you about this position?

What skills or experience do you have that are applicable to this post?

Why do you want this job?

3. Practice makes perfect

It is important to rehearse your answers to interview questions before the event. This involves
practising until you feel comfortable talking spontaneously about yourself, your skills and work
experience, not memorising your responses to every imaginable question. Remember to use
the STAR structure (pages 32 -33) when appropriate.
If possible, find someone to practise with and ask them for feedback on your performance.

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Appendix 2: Useful webpages

Online resources for job hunting:

Centro de Orientacin e Informacin de Empleo (UPM):

http://www.coie.upm.es/

The Spanish Association for Defense, Aeronautics and Space Technologies (TEDIE):
Visit their webpage for a comprehensive list of companies involved in the aerospace
sector in Spain:
http://english.tedae.org/Asociados/all/

Colegio Oficial de Ingenieros Aeronuticos (COIAE):

http://www.coiae.com/Coiae

Colegio Oficial de Ingenieros Tcnicos Aeronuticos (COITAE):

http://www.aeronauticos.org/web/invitado/principal

Check the jobs portals of Spanish universities with degrees in aerospace engineering:
http://www.theknowledgeworld.com/world-of-aerospace/Spain-AerospaceUniversities.htm

The Royal Aeronautical Societys careers and education portal:

http://aerosociety.com/Careers-Education/Jobs

The Engineer Jobs lists vacancies in aerospace in the UK:

http://jobs.theengineer.co.uk/

http://www.aviationjobsearch.com/

http://jobs.flightglobal.com/

http://euroengineerjobs.com/

http://www.rileyguide.com/

http://www.monster.co.uk/

http://www.careerbuilder.com/

http://www.milkround.com/

http://www.dice.com/

http://www.jobsite.co.uk/

http://matchtech.com/

http://targetjobs.co.uk/

http://www.linkedin.com/studentjobs

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Company websites of some of the largest aerospace employers:

http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/top-100-aerospace-manufacturers-asgood-as-it-gets-314627/
http://www.airbus.com/work/
http://www.baesystems.com/careers
http://www.boeing.com/boeing/careers/index.page
http://www.eads.com/eads/int/en/work-for-eads.html
http://www.lockheedmartinjobs.com/index.aspx
http://www.rolls-royce.com/careers/
http://www.thalesgroup.com/Careers/

Resources for preparing application materials and job interviews:

http://engineers-international.com/
http://www.euroengineerjobs.com/career_guide
http://www.prospects.ac.uk/careers.htm
http://www.monster.com
http://www.kent.ac.uk/careers/applicn.htm
http://www.cvtips.com/
http://www.pathfinder-one.com/
http://www.gradsintocareers.co.uk/
http://www.wikijob.co.uk/wiki/job-interviews
http://studentaffairs.stanford.edu/cdc
http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/careers/students/applying/index.aspx
http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/section/6/
http://careerweb.leeds.ac.uk/
http://targetjobs.co.uk/careers-advice
http://www.bu.edu/careers/
http://careers.theguardian.com/
To prepare for online application:
http://www.selectsimulator.com/
To carry out a self-assessment of your transferable skills:
http://www.kent.ac.uk/careers/sk/skillsinventory.html
For a list of list of action verbs, organised according to the core competencies:
http://career.opcd.wfu.edu/files/2011/05/Action-Verbs-for-Resumes.pdf

-------------------------------NOTES:

This list represents only a fraction of the many resources available online. Be sure to
check the careers offices of UK and American universities for more information.

404 errors?
All the links were working at the time of going to press. But if you do get a broken link
message, try visiting the homepage of the site and use their search facilities to locate
the page you are looking for.

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