Preparation is the key to success in any interview. But, what should that preparation actually entail? Check out our Interview Preparation Guide.

We also chatted to Jon McCahon, Account Manager at Talent’s Perth branch, to discover his insights on exceptional interview practices.

How much research should you do before an interview?

“It often depends on the role and how much you want it – if it’s your dream job you could spend days researching, but in general, you should spend at least a couple of hours looking into the company. Most research can be done online these days, and an excellent place to start is social media, especially LinkedIn.”

In fact, according to Glassdoor, social media is becoming so popular in the job hunt that 79 per cent of job seekers use it at some stage in the process.

“If you don’t have much time, focus on the job description and matching it to your resume. This doesn’t mean tailoring your CV, but instead searching through it to see which skills and past successes best match the role.”

How can job seekers go about anticipating employer questions?

“If they’re being represented by a recruiter, ask them as many questions as possible to get an idea of their interview style – will they ask about your CV or have technical questions? Will it be formal or informal? Even if you aren’t job hunting through a recruiter, simply ringing the HR department and asking what sort of questions are normally asked is a good place to start.”

Don’t worry if you can’t find anything out about the interview. If you’re well-prepared and know your CV, you’ll be able to lead the interview yourself by making the employer ask questions around what you’ve chosen to tell them.

What should you do if you’re doing a group interview or assessment centre?

“You need to focus on your soft skills. This means communication, but also listening. It’s important to stand out, but be a team player. I recommend preparing three things that you definitely want to get across, and spend the rest of the time sitting back and listening.”

How should candidates prepare for IT interviews?

“Know your successes. Look at your past experiences and highlight the projects that you’ve led or played an integral role. If you don’t have that much experience, bring ideas to the table and show you have a sound knowledge of the role you’re going to undertake.”

Do you have any other tips for an interview?

“One of the most important things I can tell you is to be fully present in the room. You only have an hour to sell yourself, and it’s not worth it if your mind is elsewhere. One thing you should never do is answer your phone in an interview. If this is only your first or second interview, remember that while you may not always be successful, it’s still great experience and will help you perform better in future interviews.”

What’s stood out for you in interviews?

“I like it when candidates bring something extra to the table, for instance some slides they’ve prepared on a particular project they did in the past. This shows they’ve gone the extra mile and prepared above and beyond others. There might be one candidate that is a perfect fit, but if they’re complacent and don’t prepare sufficiently, they will lose out to less experienced people that really show they care about the role.”

Don’t forget to download our complete Interview Preparation Guide here, to make sure you make a lasting impression on hiring managers and set yourself apart from the competition.

It’s essential to give your CV a refresh every now and again, whether it’s to change the layout, update your details, or match it with your LinkedIn profile. Almost everyone will realise the importance of having a near-perfect CV; whether you’re a recent graduate looking for your first role, a student planning for the future, or a professional seeking a career change, it’s essential this document reflects a number of important facts about yourself.

For those who have been in the job market for a while or are applying for a range of jobs, it’s also a good idea to refresh your CV every now and again, especially in the unfortunate event you aren’t having much success. Alternatively, if you haven’t changed roles or received any new qualifications or accolades for some time, a refresh could breathe some much-needed life into the document.

Refresh your CV with our guide.

Here are some key things to keep in mind:

Consider starting anew

In some cases, a quick refresh might not be enough to bring your CV up to the standards expected by recruiters. Alternatively, it may have been a while since you last applied for a job, leaving your details out of date or irrelevant. This also gives you the chance to try out a number of new ideas before settling on a final copy, such as changing the layout completely or updating your reference list. Have you met someone new who could better represent your achievements in the workplace?

Proofread the result!

At the very least, you should be taking the chance to refresh your CV with a proofread each time you make any changes or before submitting for a position. This is especially important considering career advisor TheLadders discovered just how little time some recruiters spend with each CV they inspect. According to the firm, many hiring managers are able to make a decision within six to seven seconds of opening an application. With CVs being subjected to such quick scrutiny, it’s essential that you’ve dotted your i’s and crossed your t’s in all the right places.

Check your digital CV at the same time

Ever wondered about a digital CV? LinkedIn revolutionised professional networking, offering a global platform with 1 billion members. It’s not just for connecting; it’s your online CV. Keep it aligned with your resume for a consistent professional image. Stay updated and find new connections.

Looking for more advice? Download our latest CV Guide.

At Talent, we’re about more than finding you your next role or assignment. We’re committed to empowering you in many other ways that will support your career, wellbeing, and lifestyle. If you’re looking for a role in the tech, transformation or beyond, have a look at our jobs board.

Navigating the world of work can be difficult but there are things you can do to make landing your dream tech role that much easier. Here are our top tips to help you get ahead:

1. Speak to recruiters

According to Talent’s Sydney Practice Manager, Alan Dowdall, “Now is the time to engage with those recruiters you are connected to or who have contacted you in the past 6 months, and to speak to them about the current landscape based on your current skillset”. Recruiters, especially tech-based ones, can be your best asset in landing a tech role. With access to industry insights and knowledge about which companies are hiring, they can help you in securing interviews for roles most suited to your skillset and experience.

If you’re looking for a digital or tech role, check out our Job Search.

2. Get in touch

Former colleagues and managers are great people to turn to when looking for a new role. Check in with them to see where they are working currently. You may find that they are currently hiring, and can help set you up with an interview.

3. Look to the competition

Another great idea is to look to competitors of your current or previous employers. If they are in a position to hire currently, research who you know in these companies and see if they can make an introduction on your behalf. Use your connections to get a foot in the door.

4. Update your resume

Alan recommends scanning your resume thoroughly, “If it’s only been updated sporadically over the past 5 years, maybe it’s time for a rewrite.” Your core skillset should be clear so hiring managers can easily identify what you will bring to the table. However, Alan cautions, “If your resume reads like a job description, it’s time to update it with tangible achievements and details around projects worked on”. You want to showcase how your skills have actually been put to action. Tangible examples are essential.

5. Expand your skillset

Upskilling is the key that opens the door to many more job opportunities. For example, it may be worthwhile to skill up in security as it is related to your role. According to LinkedIn, hiring demand for professionals skilled in cybersecurity is significant, and companies are increasingly hiring for these roles. The more you can offer a company, the more value they will see in hiring you.

6. Set up job alerts

Sign up for job alerts from job boards and LinkedIn. You will be notified when any roles become available and can be the first to jump on them. It also means you can cut your job search time in half, as these alerts will be doing the hard search work for you. To receive notifications that are even more tailored to you, Alan recommends “staying quite close to your core skills” in the roles you apply for, as this will increase your chances of scoring an interview.

7. Refresh your LinkedIn profile

Your LinkedIn profile is essentially your digital resume, so you want to ensure that it is up to date with your key skills, qualifications and experience. Recruiters and hiring managers will be scanning this to determine whether you are the right fit for the position. LinkedIn is also a great networking tool, and is useful in making known to others that you are looking for work. We recommend that you update your profile to ‘Open to Opportunities’ as you want hiring managers and recruiters to easily be able to find your account and consider you for their open roles.

8. Set your pay expectations

In terms of a salary/pay rate in the current market, you should be asking yourself ‘what I am prepared to accept?’ This rate may not be what you got 12 months ago, so you need to be realistic and competitive if you want to increase your chances of securing your next role.

9. Dedicate some hours to job search

Searching for jobs is no easy task, and can take a large toll on you mentally. Alan recommends “setting a certain number of hours aside each day to do your research, sending your resume and conducting follow up calls with recruiters”. Setting this time aside helps you to establish a routine, and the more consistent you are with your efforts, the greater your chances are of landing a role.

10. Don’t be disheartened

With a shifting market and news of layoffs across big tech companies, Alan’s advice is to keep your spirits high, “Don’t get disheartened. There are still a lot of companies hiring and the right opportunity will present itself once you are consistent in your approach”. Stay motivated and persistent – it will pay off.

If you’re currently looking for tech work, check out our Job Search.

The tech hiring market is shifting, seeing the scales of power continuing to tip between candidates and employers. So, who holds all the power, and does it only belong to one group? With exclusive insights from our recruiters across Australia and New Zealand, we dive into current tech hiring market trends to uncover who really has the upper hand. Let’s get into it.

What does the current market look like?

While the current tech hiring market is characterised by a greater sense of caution and conservatism – a stark contrast to the frenzied, candidate-driven hiring market of 2021 and 2022 – it doesn’t mean that demand for top tech skills is out the window. While the scales have started to tip in favour of the employer, with an influx of candidates in the market due to recent layoffs, there is more to the debate than this. Our recruitment experts share both sides, uncovering the nuances of this evolving market landscape.

An employer’s world

Throughout 2023, the market has experienced almost 250,000 layoffs across over 1,100 tech companies globally, resulting in a significant influx of talent to the market and more candidates available than roles on offer. Employers have subsequently found themselves holding the power across numerous roles, seeing a slowdown in the unprecedented salary rises of 2021 and 2022.

This particularly holds true for those in project services positions – think, your Project Managers and Business Analysts – where we are seeing slowed demand as companies cut costs and press pause on their projects.

Shane Hodgins, Senior Account Manager at Talent Sydney observes, “Where there has been a slowdown in the market is in the project services space – many companies are putting their projects on hold as budgets for IT projects are being cut. Generalist IT project managers are most affected by this. Where they have been let go and previously would have been picked up within weeks, many are taking longer to secure their next role as there aren’t as many project services functions available for them to work in.”

In New Zealand, 2023 has been a year of flux – something the tech hiring market was not immune to. JP Browne, Talent Auckland Practice Lead notes, “Auckland’s serious weather events at the start of the year caused a lot of organisations to put projects on hold. Inflation then hit and there was uncertainty around the economy. Put an election in that mix and we saw a lot of employers holding on to see what was going to happen. The demand for Project Services talent therefore remains low.”

Talent Wellington Managing Director, Nik King-Turner also weighs in, “2023 saw a huge increase in supply of amazing talent onto the market with many struggling to secure work as there were fewer roles to go around. With candidate supply high and job demand only slowly increasing, organisations are in the driver’s seat to have more control over rates and salaries that are paid.”

So, while it appears to be an employer’s market, is this really the case across all tech roles?

A case for the candidate

Despite layoffs and the flood of candidates in the market, the tech skills shortage remains and is only growing. With businesses seeking to leverage the power of AI, secure their cyber defences, and harness the capability of data, the demand for tech professionals to lead these programs of work has only grown. This has seen top AI, cyber, and data experts remain in high demand, with employers competing to secure this talent for their teams. With a shortage of qualified tech professionals on the market, top candidates who possess these skillsets are finding themselves in the driver’s seat, with more choice on offer and the ability to command those higher salaries.

Shane Hodgins notes, “Cybersecurity professionals are still in high demand. Hands-on technical roles such as penetration testers and security engineers, are highly sought after, and we’re still seeing more roles in the market than candidates available. Resultantly, salaries have remained high at post-COVID levels for these candidates.”

Talent Sydney Practice Manager, Alan Dowdall also observes that, “The market is in an interesting place currently. In certain job categories, mainly Project Services & Change, we see applications increasing tenfold from 18 months ago, with applicants getting a response to less than 10% of roles applied for.” Despite this, Alan notes that certain positions aren’t seeing this increased candidate competition, and instead, are experiencing the opposite. “Accomplished mid-level Software Engineering, Cyber, and DevOps professionals are still highly sought after. In these professions, demand outstrips supply, and the expectation of passive candidates to consider a move remains strong.”

The final verdict

There is no singular way to characterise the current tech hiring market. While project roles are down and employers hold the power in this sector, cyber, data, and AI roles are on the up and candidates are in control. It’s both an employer and candidate’s market. So, what can we expect for the next 12 months?

Looking ahead

Moving into 2024 and beyond, we know that the tech shortage isn’t going away anytime soon. As tech only evolves, and with it, presents new opportunities and risks, the right tech professionals are needed at the helm to guide companies forward.

Joelle Beaton, Talent Melbourne Practice Lead comments that, “Although there is malaise surrounding the broader economic climate, in the tech sector, analysis from Deloitte shows that 1.8 million new tech skills will be needed by 2030, an increase of 1.3 million on today’s levels. At a minimum, Australia will need 445,000 more technology skilled workers by 2030 to keep pace with international economies. With demand at these levels, I feel this sector will continue to see steady employment opportunities for both permanent and contract workers throughout 2024. Much of the demand will be in security, data and AI-related disciplines.”

Are you looking to recruit top tech professionals for your cybersecurity and data teams? Or are you a tech professional ready for your next opportunity? Check out our job search or get in touch with us to discover how we can help.

Cybersecurity is one of the hottest topics at the moment. With cyber attacks only on the up, the right people are needed at the helm to shore up company systems and protect against threats. This calls for cybersecurity professionals who are skilled in everything from penetration testing through to AI and are always able to stay one step ahead of malicious players.

So, which cybersecurity skillsets are in highest demand and where should you focus your efforts as a cyber professional as we move into 2024? Our recruitment experts and clients (whose insights are so exclusive we’ve had to conceal their identities!) have weighed in to help you best navigate the cyber job market. Let’s get into it.

Cloud Computing Security

As cloud applications are increasingly relied upon with the growth of remote and hybrid work, the threat of cyberattacks is ever present. As a result, cloud computing security skills are highly desired. A global survey found 50% of companies are looking for cloud security specialists, yet this talent is in short supply as 57% of IT and cybersecurity managers have noted that cloud security roles are the most challenging to fill. One of Talent’s clients, an Information Security Governance Manager from a major bank, stated that “as more organisations are migrating applications and data to the cloud – they face new challenges in securing their cloud environments. Since cloud security is a niche set of skills, I believe many organisations will look to offer greater opportunities to upskill their employees in this specific area of cybersecurity.” Brush up on your cloud computing skills and they’ll hold you in good stead when searching for your next cyber role.

Security Operations

Monitoring company systems and ensuring there’s no way for cyber criminals to break through, is key as threats only become more sophisticated. So, it’s no surprise that endpoint security and security operations centre (SOC) skillsets are highly sought after. 42% of global companies are seeking to hire Security Operations Analysts, yet 50% cite difficulty in recruiting these professionals. According to our Talent Sydney cybersecurity recruitment expert, Elliott Howard, SOC roles top the list when it comes to professionals in demand, particularly as cyber threats only grow in number. Cyberattacks increased by 7% in the first quarter of 2023 compared to the same period the year prior, with 1 in 31 global companies experiencing a ransomware attack per week during this same time period. Elliott notes, “the cybersecurity roles most in demand by our clients are Cyber Engineers (SOC, Cloud Security and DevSecOps), GRC Consultants, and Cyber Architects.”

Offensive Security

When it comes to cybersecurity, it’s not only about building a strong defence – constructing a strong offensive strategy is just as important to stay ahead of cybercriminals. Strengthening systems by proactively searching for vulnerabilities is currently a key focus area for companies, with penetration testing and threat intelligence experts in high demand. According to a 2023 survey, 94% of cybersecurity professionals cited that penetration testing was either somewhat important or important to their company’s cybersecurity strength. However, 63% of survey respondents noted that hiring enough skilled professionals to carry out penetration tests was their top challenge when implementing a penetration testing program in their company. A Cyber Director at a Talent government client also notes that they are in search of tenured professionals with offensive security skillsets, citing that they are looking to hire “Offensive Security and Cyber Threat Intelligence Analysts including threat modelling, with 10 years’ experience and certified OSCP, GPEN, GCTI”. So, if you’re skilled in locking down systems and are an expert pen tester, you’ll be in a good position when it comes to securing cyber opportunities in 2024 and beyond.

Artificial Intelligence

As AI takes off, the need for professionals who understand the ins and outs of this technology – and can remain ahead of cybercriminals who are leveraging its capabilities – is higher than ever. With the global ‘AI in cybersecurity’ market valued at over $10 billion in 2020 and projected to reach $46.3 billion by 2027, companies are increasingly integrating AI into their cybersecurity operations and need skilled professionals to lead the charge. One Talent client, an Information Security Manager from a major bank, shares that they are in need of “experts with Artificial Intelligence skills, where AI is used for SOC”, however, they note that this skillset is challenging to hire for, with demand for this talent far outweighing supply. After all, it’s estimated that there is a shortfall of 3.4 million cybersecurity candidates globally.

Beyond technical skills… it’s time to talk the talk

While technical skills are key when it comes to cybersecurity, there are also those less technical skills that can be deal-makers or deal-breakers for employers when it comes to making a hire. Looking to 2024, strong communication skills are a non-negotiable. A Cybersecurity Architect Manager at an IT services client company, shares that “candidates who have the technical acumen are aplenty, however the ability to communicate in literal and verbal mediums, combined with a good set of interpersonal skills, differentiates the good from the not so good candidates.” Communication skills are so important and in such high demand, that candidates who possess both this technical AND non-technical expertise can find themselves in a stronger bargaining position when it comes to salary. A Cyber Services Manager at a cyber consultancy cites that their preference is “to hire those who are a bit consultative in nature with a good degree of interpersonal skills in managing clients. Such candidates are certainly in short supply, but if you find one, it’s often worth paying that little bit extra given the benefits they can provide.”

The skills and hiring landscape

As new technology continues to enter the market and cybercriminals become increasingly sophisticated, the skills and hiring landscape will continue to shift.

Here at Talent, we know that keeping up with current trends in cyber skills and getting ahead of rapidly evolving cyber threats is tough. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back. Working with hundreds of employers across every industry from Tech through to Telecoms, we can set you up with your ideal cybersecurity role. Check out all our job opportunities in cybersecurity here.

So, you applied for a job but unfortunately didn’t land it. Want to know what you can do to boost your chances next time? The first step you can take is to request feedback on your job application – it can provide you with invaluable insights which you can take with you moving forward. So, how exactly can you go about this? Talent’s Melbourne Managing Director, Simon Yeung, provides his recommendations:

1. Be timely and specific

Yeung suggests asking for feedback relatively quickly after finding out you were unsuccessful, “your application will still be fresh in their mind, so they can provide you with relevant and detailed feedback”. It’s also a great idea to go in with specific questions so that the hiring manager can really hone in on what you want to know. You can ask what they perceived your greatest weaknesses to be, or whether your qualifications and experience were sufficient. You want your feedback to be as clear and specific as possible. This will allow you to easily identify where improvements can be made, and will enable you to work towards being that ideal candidate in future.

2. Maintain a positive attitude

Yeung says that “maintaining a positive attitude is key”. Don’t go in on the defence when seeking feedback. Go into it with a positive attitude. You aren’t going in there to interrogate the recruitment manager as to why you didn’t get the job – you want feedback as to how you can improve in future. Make sure to frame it this way when approaching the topic. Enter with an angry mindset and the manager will be thinking “phew, we dodged a bullet”. This isn’t what you want to be remembered for.

3. Make improvements

Yeung suggests “asking questions for self-improvement”. Ask relevant questions that will allow you to make improvements to become the best version of yourself you can be. Taking the time to collect this feedback and to self-reflect, will allow you to do just this. Maybe it involves upskilling or gaining more experience. Whatever it may be, be open to making changes and making the most of the opportunities this feedback can bring.

4. Don’t take it to heart

Yeung advocates for having a thick skin when asking for feedback, “Don’t be too sensitive when it comes to receiving feedback. It is meant to be constructive”. Use it as motivation to be your best self. Maybe your qualifications or experience aren’t there, and that’s fine. This particular job probably wasn’t the right fit – now have the opportunity to apply elsewhere,. Otherwise, this is the perfect opportunity to update your skills so that you have a greater chance of landing that role, or similar, in future.

5. Take it on board

Yeung’s key takeaway is to “listen and listen!”. Take note of the feedback, reflect on it, and use it to ace your next application. The way you handle this feedback is also a reflection of your character. Handle it gracefully and professionally, and you won’t be burning any bridges – it may just be that they even consider you for a future role!

Being rejected from a job isn’t fun, but consider it a learning experience. Gather your feedback, take it on board and you will be one step closer to landing your dream role.

If you’re looking for a tech or digital role, check out our job search for hundreds of opportunities.

So, you’ve just been told your next job interview will be done via video. But don’t panic! Yes, remote interviews can present some challenges, but they also have many benefits – for example, you won’t need to travel to the company’s offices, or take any time off from your current role.

With the right amount of preparation, you should feel just as confident doing a video interview as you would in a “normal” one. So read on for our top tips on acing your video interview!

1. Be prepared

This is true of both in-person and video interviews: preparation is key. Look into the company (using websites like LinkedIn and Glassdoor) and the person/people you’ll be speaking to, and spend some time reading through the job description and matching it to your CV to see which of your skills and past successes best match the role. Finally, make sure you prepare answers to some of the most common questions interviewers regularly ask.

2. Think of your tech

With video interviews, the main issues you might have to deal with will be technical. So, before you’re due to start, make sure to do a tech test: do you have stable internet connection? Are your microphone and camera working? We normally advise to use a laptop or desktop computer; however, if your phone has the capacity to handle a long video chat, you may be okay to use it.

3. No distractions, please

Now that your tech is good to go, it’s time to think about your environment. Avoid doing video interviews at coffee shops, libraries and other public places, where you’ll be bombarded with distracting noises and movement – instead, stay at home and choose a quiet, well-lit room with enough space to set up your equipment. If you live with family or friends, make sure they know your interview is taking place so they can remember to keep noise levels to a minimum.

4. First impressions matter

While you may not be meeting the interviewer in person, your appearance and the way you present yourself will still be taken into consideration. So, when you’re setting up and getting ready, try to imagine you’re doing a face-to-face interview and pick your clothes accordingly. You should also pay attention to your background, and try to keep it as mess-free as possible.

Talent’s tips in brief:

• Prepare just as you would for a face-to-face interview.
• Find a silent, well-lit place, free from distractions.
• Make sure you have a stable internet connection.
• Check that your microphone is working.
• Test your camera.
• Dress professionally and choose a suitable background.
• Nod, smile, and speak clearly.
• Finally – be confident!

If you think you’re ready to put your video interview skills to the test, check out what jobs we have available here.

It’s a noisy world out there, and these days, it’s not enough to just let your work speak for itself.

Building your personal brand is about telling people who you are, and demonstrating how you could be of value to them. In the simplest terms your personal brand is your reputation, which follows you around whether you like it or not. So, you may as well take control of it and leverage it to make connections, grow your business, and land your dream job.

1. Figure out what you’re all about

You may have many jobs over your lifetime, but your personal brand is something you’ll take with you over the course of your career so it’s worth investing time and energy into it. Before you can sell yourself to the world, you need to know who you are, what you want to be known for, and where you want to go. What are your values and interests? What motivates you? What’s the most exciting part of your job and what are the changes you want to make happen in your industry? Take stock of your set of skills and talents and experiences that are unique to you. If you were competing for a spot in the rocket ship leaving Earth to start a new civilisation, what would you write on your application form?

Then start thinking about where you want to be a year from now. How about in 5, 10 years, and beyond? Once you’ve established your short and long term goals, you’ll have a better idea of the kind of people you’d like to start noticing you, they’re your target audience.

Answers to all of these questions will help you formulate a one-line vision statement for your personal brand that really feels authentic to you, not just something you think you’re meant to say.

“My number one tip is to always be honest and true to who you are,” says Scarlett Cooke, Talent Sydney Account Manager. “Pretending to be someone or something you aren’t will only end in tears.”

2. Build your brand

In the good old days, if someone wanted to stalk you, they’d need several fake moustaches, a big pair of binoculars and a leafy bush to hide behind, but today all it takes is a simple Google search. In most cases, they’ll start with your LinkedIn profile, and this is your first chance to impress.

Your online presence is an extension of yourself, so inject a bit of your personality in there. For Scarlett, “Personal qualities I look for in a candidate include their humour, an inquisitive nature and their motivations to grow and develop in a role.”

In the one-line bio, don’t just write “Developer at Boring Company”, use a full sentence to show the world that you love what you do, and that you’re damn good at it. Need some inspo? Check out the bios of LinkedIn’s Top Ten Voices In Tech.

People looking at your profile don’t just want to read your resume, they want to get a sense of who you are as a person to see if you’re a good cultural fit for their company. “The more you tell me about yourself, the more you stand out and will spring to mind when new roles come up,” says Scarlett. Your work history shouldn’t read like a resume. People are naturally drawn to narratives, so tell a compelling personal story that includes your interests, motivations, key milestones in your career and your outlook for the future. In addition, she advises your photo should be professional and your ‘experience’ section should be up to date and aligned to your CV.

Of course, as much as recruiters want to get the full picture of you as a professional, there is such a thing as TMI – too much information. “I would also strongly recommend keeping your personal social media on the highest privacy settings possible!” Scarlett adds.

3. Create content

You can use the words “motivated” and “passionate” all you like, but the best way to prove that you’re the real deal is simple: Show us what you can do. You’ve identified your area of specialisation, so you can start by sharing articles related to that topic and commenting on posts with your insights. You’ve told us all about your skillset, so build a beautiful website for yourself that showcases those strengths. But please, make sure it works.

Blog about industry topics that combine your experience, interests and expertise. Don’t be afraid to get niche, as you can position yourself as a thought leader in that particular space. You could write articles on platforms like Medium and also consider sending out a regular email newsletter that people can sign up to. You don’t have to restrict yourself to blog posts, think about other media too. Consider articles, white papers, speeches, video series, podcasts, animated infographics, flash games, the choices are endless!

4. Connect with others

If you’re an introvert, “networking” might be a phrase that makes you feel like throwing up a little bit in your mouth, but at the end of the day, it’s just about making genuine connections and getting to know the people in your community. You might not always love talking about yourself, but that’s just a part of what personal branding is about. Instead seek out the people whose work you admire, and tell them how much you appreciate their work. Share articles that others have written, and soon others will do the same for you.

If you’re a developer, another tip is to frequently add to GitHub, Stack Overflow, or if you’re a Salesforce developer, continue to earn badges on Trailhead. It proves that you care about what you do and gives you a chance to show off your ability and interact with your peers.

Being social is also about going out and doing stuff in real life. If you live in a city, there are events, training sessions, expos and conferences happening pretty much every day of the week.

“I would recommend signing up for Meetup as this is a great way to connect with the tech community and stay up to date with new trends,” says Scarlett. Or just Google tech events + your city and see what turns up. As well as proving that you’re constantly learning and adding to your knowledge, attending an event is bound to give you an idea for something to write about on your blog. Bonus!

5. Living your brand

Building your personal brand is about discovering and then showcasing the best version of yourself. It’s not just about self-promotion, it’s about conducting yourself in a way that other people are compelled to be your cheerleaders. Going above and beyond in your work and helping out colleagues means you’ll be more likely to get LinkedIn recommendations and prove that you are as good as you say.

Employers do look for volunteer work or community involvement, as well as extra-curricular activities around social responsibility. You really can’t fake this stuff, so if you’re not doing it already, get out there and use your skills and privilege to make the world a better place.

Finally, this process might have helped you identify some of your personal shortfalls and flaws, so use this opportunity to work on yourself. Become the kind of person that you’d want on your team, and you’ll be much happier for it.

If you think your personal brand has what it takes to stand out from the rest, browse the opportunities we have available and get applying!

What are green skills and how do they fit into the growing green technology landscape? We break down the basics. From solar to smart grids, here’s a quick snapshot of what you need to know about green tech and the growing green jobs market.

Technologies shaping the green energy sector

The green skills shortage is a global phenomenon. The UK currently faces a green energy skill gap of over 200,000 workers — a number that is likely to increase as the UK pursues 100% renewable energy by 2035. Sharing in the goal of 100% renewable energy is New Zealand, an objective set by the current Labour Party. In this pursuit, expertise in various areas is required, including solar power, wind power, energy storage, smart grids and electric vehicles.

Solar power

Solar power — a clean and renewable energy source — has a number of benefits, including its low environmental impact, scalability and potential to provide reliable power even during periods of peak demand. This green technology is enabled by four key professional categories: manufacturing, system design, project development, and installation and maintenance, which collectively support its implementation and ongoing operation. Across all professional categories, 700,000 new solar power jobs were created in 2022 alone. The following skillsets are sought after within each category:

• Manufacturing: Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Operators, Process Control Technicians and Instrumentation & Electronics Technicians.
• System design: Structural and Power Systems Engineers, Solar Energy Systems Designers and Software Engineers.
• Project development: Solar Marketing Specialists, Solar Utility Procurement Specialists and Building Inspectors.
• Installation & maintenance: HVAC technicians, Solar Service Technicians and Solar Installations Contractors.

Wind power

Wind power is actively shaping the green energy sector. To implement and operate wind power energy sources, there is currently a rising demand for those with expertise in data analytics, electrical systems, aerodynamics and simulation, among others. Within the five areas responsible for the operation and maintenance of wind power — engineering, design, construction, operation and maintenance — approximately half a million skilled workers will be needed in construction and maintenance alone by 2026.

Energy storage

Energy storage ensures energy sources are accessible when they are most needed. This is particularly important for renewables like solar and wind, which may not be consistently available.

There are several energy storage technologies, each possessing unique strengths and weaknesses: These include batteries, pumped hydro, and compressed air energy storage. Energy storage plays a transformative role in enhancing the reliability and affordability of renewable energy sources while reducing our dependence on fossil fuels.

Energy storage companies are looking for those who are competent in flywheels, pumped hydro, compressed air, and thermal storage, among others. The specific technical competencies required depend on the nature of the role — other relevant energy storage technological skills include software development, data analysis, modelling and simulation.

Smart grids

Smart grids are modern power grids that use digital technology to improve efficiency, reliability, and sustainability. Smart grids make use of various technologies including sensors, communication networks, and advanced control systems. These technologies enable utility companies to monitor and control the grid in real time, resulting in improved efficiency and reliability. Furthermore, smart grids play a vital role in integrating intermittent renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, into the existing power infrastructure.

There are various skills that are required of the engineers who work on smart grids: Linux, MATLAB programming, electric utility analysis, GIS, outage management, demand response and infrastructure management. The demand for such skills is projected to increase significantly as the global smart grid market is set to reach USD $207.82 billion by 2030, compared to 2022’s value of USD $50 billion.

Electric Vehicles (EVs)

With a projected UK skill shortage reaching the tens of thousands, Electric vehicles (EVs) are powered by electricity instead of gasoline or diesel —  considered a clean and efficient way to travel.

EVs have a number of benefits, including their lowered emissions, quiet operation and potential to reduce fuel costs. As technology continues to improve, EVs are becoming more affordable and accessible. In-demand EV-related technological competencies include software engineering, control system development, sensing and actuation technology, and vehicles & systems integration; the demand for these skills — and other associated EV competencies — is projected to grow 230% over the next five years.

A look into global demand

The global demand for workers in the green energy sector is steadily rising, as evidenced by a 29% higher median hiring rate compared to the 2023 workforce average. This trend shows no sign of slowing down – the number of green energy jobs is expected to increase by around 12 million by 2030. As only one in eight workers have the necessary skills to meet the rising green energy demand, employers are needing to ensure they stand out in today’s competitive tech marketplace to attract the best.

Whether you’re working in solar, wind, electric vehicles, or anything in between, at Talent, we bring together experts in tech, transformation and beyond. Learn more about our Green Tech specialisation here and our current job opportunities here.

With uncertainty being the only certainty of 2020, we can safely assume that the job hunt will be anything but ordinary. From lockdowns and quarantines, to restrictions and social distancing, it’s hard to know what the situation will be months, weeks and even days from now. So it really is an oxymoron when you read the statement ‘plan for an interview’. Plans get thrown out at the drop of face mask, so how can you really ‘plan’ for a meeting when you’re not even sure it’ll go ahead?

Lucky for us though, technology provides some stability in an otherwise unstable world. Virtual interviewing is the new buzzword, thrown around by companies far and wide, and we know why. Conducted remotely, you don’t even need to leave the safety of your own home to interact with others and embark on the job search. You can put your best virtual foot forward to land your dream job, all from your lounge room!

So what exactly can you do to succeed in these interviews? Here are our practical tips to score that role:

1. Prep your tech

Pretty simple, but make sure your tech is working. If you’re on a Zoom call and you sound like you’ve switched on a slow-mo voice effect, then things won’t bode too well for you. To prevent the dreaded lag, try to sit as close to your wi-fi modem as possible, or alternatively, invest in an Ethernet cable to ensure you avoid any pesky drop-outs. It’s also a great idea to test out your mic and camera before entering the virtual meeting room. You want to ensure you can be seen and heard clearly. Another top tip: check that the interview link you’ve been sent is actually functional. If not, get in contact with your interviewer ASAP.

2. Nail the basics

A virtual interview really isn’t all that different to a regular interview in terms of the questions you’ll be asked, so ensure that you are adequately prepared. Some basic tips we have are to:

// Research the company beforehand.

// Back up any answers with anecdotes of your previous achievements and projects. You want to mention specific examples.

// Dress the part. Look presentable and professional (at least from the waist up – no one can tell if you’re still wearing your pyjama bottoms)

// Have some questions ready to ask the interviewer. It’ll not only make a good impression by showing that you are prepared, but will also help you determine if the role is right for you.

3. Brush up on your virtual etiquette

It can be a little difficult to read the room when you’re not physically in said room, so it’s a great idea to brush up on your virtual interviewing etiquette. We’re sure that you have experience in video calls of some sort, be it Facetime calls with that aunty overseas or Skype meetings of days past, so we don’t want to be preaching to the converted. But with that being said, it doesn’t hurt to cover off a few key points to consider when in a virtual rendezvous with a prospective employer.

// Avoid distractions. You want to give your interviewer your full, undivided attention (as you would expect them to give you). So yes, that means putting your phone on silent. The messages can wait!

// Consider your surroundings. When attending an interview in person, it’s usually held in a quiet office, right? There aren’t people barging in left, right and centre. So try to mimic these surroundings at home. Choose a location where you can ensure that you will be heard clearly and won’t be interrupted. That may mean putting up a sign to alert housemates or family that you are on an important call. So that’s a no-no to them turning on the coffee machine or having a chat in the kitchen. Sound travels!

// Be courteous. Although you may be dying to answer the question your interviewer has just posed, it’s best to wait until they have finished speaking to avoid that awkward ‘no you go, no you go’ tussle. It’s pretty obvious, but easier said than done when you’re not physically in the room with the interviewer and can’t easily read their body language. A good rule of thumb? Wait until there has been a slight pause after their question and then the floor is yours.

// Position your camera appropriately. Just like a passport photo, you want to ensure you fit perfectly within that Zoom frame. That means sitting close enough to the camera that the interviewer can clearly see your face, but not too close that it becomes creepy (if your eyes take up most of the screen, you’re not doing it right). Make sure that you can be seen from the waist up and that the camera is at eye level so that you can make appropriate eye contact and mimic a regular interview.

4. Try your best to de-stress

It’s normal to feel a little nervous before an interview, and it can be even more nerve-racking when it’s not conducted in a conventional setting – think, through a computer screen in your dining room! So try you best to de-stress. That may mean going for a quick walk around our neighbourhood, or having a tea to calm your nerves. You want to go into the interview with a clear mind.

5. Build rapport

You are speaking to another person after all, so try to build some rapport with your interviewer. The current climate is a perfect conversation starter and helps make the whole situation feel a whole lot more human. You may also discover you have a common interest, so use this to forge a connection!

6. Monitor your body language

First impressions still matter – even through a screen. So ensure you are sending the right message. Sit upright and avoid fiddling or rocking in your chair. You want to communicate that you are not only professional, but that you are also eager to land this role. Staring longingly into the distance or checking your nails doesn’t give off the best impression.

7. Check in afterwards

Follow up after your interview with an email thanking your interviewer for their time. If you discussed something you had in common this is also a great time to bring it up. This will help you to remain top of mind for all the right reasons.

Looking for more tips to ace your next virtual interview? Read our article on how to smash a video interview.

At Talent, we have 25 years’ experience in tech and digital recruitment. Check out our Job Search for hundreds of opportunities in your field.