Tips for graduates

We know the application & selection process can be overwhelming for graduates so we've provided some pointers for some of the key stages of the process. Our aim is to make you feel comfortable and relaxed at every step of the way.

Preparing your application

Your application is our first glimpse of you. It provides ETSA Utilities with information that will assist in the short-listing process and in determining whether or not you are suitable for employment in our Graduate Development Program.

Preparing your resume

Your resume is your opportunity to present the best impression to us. Investing time in developing a professional and attractive resume is the key to getting to the interview stage of the selection process.

A resume is a marketing tool outlining your skills and experience so we can see, at a glance, how you can contribute to the graduate program.

In order to prepare a professional resume:

  • only include information that is relevant to the program you are applying for, exclude date of birth, martial status, etc, as it is not relevant to the role;
  • provide current contact details where we can contact you;
  • include a summary of your key skills & experience;
  • include only relevant education & training;
  • order the resume in reverse chronological order; most recent experience first;
  • include any gaps i.e. - travelling or studying;
  • include any form of work experience, not just paid work;
  • use bullet points as well as writing full sentences;
  • list all extra-curricular activities also. This tells us what you enjoy doing and a bit more about you;
  • keep the length to no more than 2-3 pages;
  • ensure it is well laid out, leaving plenty of white paper on each page to make it easy to read;
  • focus on your achievements & use specific examples under each role, where appropriate.
  • always spell check your resume;
  • if listing your referees, only use those that have already agreed to provide a reference for you. Speak to them before you put them down; and
  • it's always a good idea to have someone proof read your resume for spelling or grammatical errors.

Interview preparation tips

Know before you go

Before attending an interview (or even putting together an application) find out as much as you can about ETSA Utilities, its operations, business units, projects and people. The information on our web site is a great place to start.

Making the right impression

Ensure that you obtain accurate details about the date, time and location of your interview.

Be punctual, well groomed and dress appropriately.

Send the right signals by being friendly & courteous, listening carefully, speaking clearly and by being alert and receptive.

If for any reason you are unable to attend the scheduled interview, always advise the ETSA Utilities representative who contacted you as soon as you can. Not showing up is considered unprofessional and will be remembered by the interview panel.

Ask questions

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Ask the interviewers to clarify information or questions if necessary.

Prepare a list of well informed questions to ask when given the opportunity i.e. questions you may have about the Program or ETSA Utilities.

After the interview

For your own benefit, it is good to assess how the interview went. Which skills did the interviewers comment or inquire about? How did you handle difficult questions and how might you do better next time?

If the interviewers asked you to provide further information, do so in a timely fashion.

Remember you are at an interview because we are interested in you! Spend time preparing for your interview. It is well worth it. If you are well-prepared, you will be more confident and better able to present a positive image.

Assessment Centre tips

Again, do your research and prepare. The assessment centre gives you an opportunity to meet our people and learn more about us to give you a feel for our culture and people.

In order to be successful at the assessment centre:

  • get a good nights sleep the night before and arrive at least 10 minutes early;
  • first impressions count so dress appropriately and professionally;
  • be friendly, sincere and enthusiastic;
  • make sure that you have found out as much information as possible about ETSA Utilities and the Graduate Development Program;
  • ask questions throughout the assessment centre;
  • don’t be afraid to get involved. Remember you are being assessed throughout each exercise;
  • think about what sets you apart from other candidates and demonstrate that; and
  • try and relax. This is your opportunity to learn more about us as much as it’s an opportunity for us to learn about you.

Remember, with some preparation you will feel more confident about your abilities and presenting yourself positively.