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Australia close to "full employment"
Jul 09, 2010

Australia continues to set the global benchmark for employment growth with another 45,900 new jobs being created in June 2010. This monthly surge has only been topped once in the past four years. Here's the interesting part though...40,000 or 87% of them were created in the mining states of Western Australia and Queensland. NSW created 15,000 new jobs, and Victoria actually lost 1600 jobs. That's what I call an uneven economy!

Despite the spectre of the now largely diluted mining tax proposal, mining employers in WA and QLD continued to hire as many people as they could in preparation for the forecast mining boom of 2011 and 2012. The strength of that boom will depend largely on Chinese and Indian buying orders, but employers do not want to find themselves unable to meet future orders due to a lack of human firepower!

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Unemployment rate in Australia falls to 5.2% in May
Jun 10, 2010

Figures released today showed that the Australian unemployment rate fell to 5.2% in May 2010. This was contrary to a widely forecast figure of 5.4%.

26,000 new positions were created in the month, which is further evidence of the relative strength of the local economy. This is an extraordinary outcome, considering that 5% has long been regarded as "full employment". The question now is ........can it be sustained??

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Job ads rise in May
Jun 10, 2010

The ANZ job advertisement series has found that the total number of job ads placed in major metropolitan papers and on the internet rose 4.3% in May 2010. Seasonally adjusted, the total number of ads was 21.7% higher than in May 2009. This is good news for all, particularly given that it represents a healthy bounce-back after a disappointing April.

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Greece, Thailand and the resources tax
May 20, 2010

What a week it has been for the world economy, and subsequently the Australian one.

There is currently a great deal for investors to digest. All we need now is the announcement of a federal election! Greece's financial woes and the consequent spill-over of jitters throughout the Euro zone are casting a spell of nervousness over the rest of the world. Add to that the significantly heightened political tension within one of our major trading partner countries (Thailand) and the uncertainty surrounding the chances of the resources tax being passed by the Senate and its likely effect on the economy. It is a heady brew!

In the meantime, the All Ords has passed through 4400 and the Australian dollar has lost some of its recent gloss. The dollar's decline is attributable to the RBA's latest meeting minutes suggesting that the interest rate hikes might be starting to bite into demand pressures (as intended) and that we are close to the rate peak in this cycle. The fact that we as a nation are still heavily tied to the mast of global commodity price movements would also be a factor, with doubts about the strength of the global recovery. The world oil price, always a good barometer, is also falling.

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A looming Greek tragedy?
Apr 28, 2010

Will Greece default on its sovereign debt? What will be the ramifications for the world economy if it does? Will it cause debt default contagion, and if so who would be affected by it?

The further downgrading of Greece's credit rating overnight has sent fresh jitters through the Euro zone, which has considerable exposure to Greece's debts. The European central bank is closely monitoring the parlous state of Greece's national finances. Australia's exposure is negligible, but the 2% plunge in the US stock market overnight and ripple effect today for Australia's market suggest that world financial markets are still experiencing some fragility. Bad news travels very fast!

The geo-political fall-out between those countries in the Euro zone who regard themselves as being fiscally prudent and the perpetrators of "fiscal abuse" has been one of the more interesting aspects of this latest episode. The motto of all French and German finance officials currently is "beware of Greek government officials bearing debts".

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March - where are we now??
Mar 02, 2010

March 2010 is upon us. Where are we now?

We are where every other economy in the world would like to be. The RBA today increased the cash rate by another 0.25 % in their consistent campaign to move monetary policy in Australia back to a "normal" stance that is neither suppressive or inflative of domestic demand pressures. Inflationary outbreaks, in response to what in hindsight has proven to be excessive economic stimulation, are now being targeted.

Booming residential property prices coupled with promising employment figures have added weight to the idea that Australia is recording considerable progress. Managing the inherent risks associated with our emergence from a downturn have thrown up a whole range of conflicting challenges for those with their hands on the national tiller.

It is a challenging time for Australia, for employers and for job-seekers. However, if you need some encouragement in confronting these challenges, just read the British, American and Irish press!

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Employment growth starts to gain traction in Australia
Dec 10, 2009

The Australian Bureau of Statistics today released some encouraging November employment figures, highlighted in an increase in full time employment by 30,000 to 7.627 million people. Only 300 part - time roles were created.

 

More importantly, the number of hours worked rose by 1% which is a positive sign given that a sizeable proportion of companies Australia - wide placed staff on reduced hours during the downturn to avoid retrenching them. There is still some re-absorbtion of under-employed staff to occur, but the figures confirm that Australia is now the strongest economy in the developed world.

 

95,000 new jobs have been created in Australia in the past 3 months. Both the ANZ Bank and the Olivier Job Advertisements index have been rising steadily for the past three months - compare that with anything seen in the USA, the United Kingdom or Ireland!

 

The Australian unemployment rate now stands at 5.7%. The USA and the United Kingdom are at or close to 10%, and Ireland's is higher with no end in sight to their employment malaise.

 

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US unemployment rate drops - good news!
Dec 07, 2009

The US has recorded a drop in the unemployment rate from 10.2% to 10% in November. That is good news for the USA and good news for the world economy. It is not (yet) good news for the 10% of the American population who still do not have a job. There are also many millions of people who are under-employed. It will take a significant period of time for the under-employed to return to a "normal" working week so the rate of decrease in the unemployment rate is likely to be slow even if the US economy sustains its current (early) signs of recovery. However, the trend is positive, worthy of acknowledgement and cause for hope in 2010 in the world's biggest economy.

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Which sectors are recording growth in hiring intentions?
Oct 30, 2009

Heading into November 2009, a number of trends in hiring intentions are emerging. The superannuation sector continues to be the strongest sector in the financial services field for hiring intentions. Being a mandated industry, staff are required regardless of whether economic conditions are poor, neutral, buoyant or booming. There is of course significant variation in  demand. Within super, marketing and communications continues to be the area recording strongest growth. Corporate governance and compliance are still relatively strong and funds are also increasing their search for in-house financial advisors. Senior management opportunities are gradually recovering but 2010 should see a return to confidence. Hiring intentions have generally tracked the status of investment returns (with a lag period of 5-6 months) during my 13 years as a recruitment consultant in the superannuation industry, and 2010 is unlikely to be any different. The return to positive investment returns (for now..) is very encouraging.

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USA emerges from recession
Oct 30, 2009

The USA has finally emerged from the longest, most severe downturn in economic activity to hit the country since the Great Depression of the 1930's. Recording a return to positive economic growth for the September 09 quarter is a step in the right direction....but it does not mean that all the pain will suddenly go away! Unemployment figures have emerged from freefall but the reality is that 10% of Americans are currently unemployed, and many more are under-employed. Housing prices have generally stabilized but new home sales are still weak. It will take some time for consumer and business confidence to recover.....but things could be worse than they are in the USA - just ask the British and Irish.....

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Leading economies emerge from recession
Aug 24, 2009

Good news continues to prevail in the world economy. The dark shroud of economic recession has lifted from a number of leading economies in recent months, notably France, Germany, and now very recently Japan, The Asian economies of Singapore, Hong Kong and of course China seem to be making strong progress. Now we just need the USA to cast off the shackles of gloom and embrace economic growth and brighter days will definitely be in sight.

The 40% increase in the US stock market augurs well for a return to American growth if you believe the theory that the stock market generally precedes real-economy growth by around 6-9 months. The rate of decline in US employment appears to have slowed markedly and that is a very good sign, as are emerging signs that the US housing market (that started this whole downturn!!) is also stabilizing.

And then there is Australia, which is as Kevin Rudd keeps reinforcing not "out of the woods yet" but would have to be a candidate for the award of "Global Houdini Economy

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Drop in US jobless is good news for all
Aug 10, 2009

The US Department of Labour reported on Friday that the US unemployment rate had fallen for the first time in 15 months. This positive data sent the S & P 500 up to a 10 month high. Another piece of good news was that AIG's results were in excess of expectations, posting its first quarterly profit for seven quarters.

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July unemployment rate at 5.8%.
Aug 06, 2009

Australia's "houdini-style" economy continues to surprise! Amidst the raft of more positive data emerging is today's news that the official Australian unemployment rate for July 2009 is 5.8%. Most economists expected it to be close to 6%. Any unemployment is undesirable, but the rate is the envy of the OECD world. Of course, under-employment continues to be a problem that is not adequately covered by the official statistics.

Coupled with the steadily rising share market and generally more positive business and consumer confidence figures, there are grounds for optimism. The federal government, however, continues to issues a note of caution.

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Biggest rise in consumer sentiment in 22 years
Jun 11, 2009

Australia's "houdini-style" economy continues to surprise! Amidst the raft of more positive data emerging is today's news that the official Australian unemployment rate for July 2009 is 5.8%. Most economists expected it to be close to 6%. Any unemployment is undesirable, but the rate is the envy of the OECD world. Of course, under-employment continues to be a problem that is not adequately covered by the official statistics.

Coupled with the steadily rising share market and generally more positive business and consumer confidence figures, there are grounds for optimism. The federal government, however, continues to issues a note of caution.

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Improving economic data provides more hope for a recovery
Jun 01, 2009

There has been further solid economic data released in the past few days. US consumer confidence has reached its highest point in eight months, suggesting that the very dark days of October 2008 may be behind us. Whilst highly tentative, there are some early signs emerging of an increase in global economic confidence. The US is starting to look healthier whilst the UK would appear to still have some way to go. Japan is also improving, after a period of very steep and rapid decline.

The improvment is reflected in the rapidly increasing price of oil, which is now up to $66 per barrel. The rise in the price of oil in May 2009 was the largest percentage increase in a month for more than a decade, which suggests greater confidence but on the downside also a risk of future inflation problems which could stifle a recovery.

It is interesting to compare the US indices against their trough in early March 2009. The S & P 500 is up 35.9% from that low point and May was the third straight month in a row in which the index rose.

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March stock market rally
Apr 02, 2009

We finally have some good news in the stock market!

We are still very substantially down on a year ago as anyone who has checked their super balance lately can attest. However, March 2009 proved to be a stellar month on the markets and April is also off to a very good start. Australian stocks posted their biggest monthly gain in almost nine years in March 2009 as people began to sense that rationality and a focus on the fundamentals were replacing panic and fear as the key drivers of the global financial sector. The benchmark S&P/ASX 200 index was up 7 percent in March, the biggest monthly rise in 9 years.

Unemployment is rising and will continue to do so for some time, but other indices are looking healthier such as housing starts. Mortgage rates are now little less than half what they were just six months ago, placing those in stable employment in an enviable position to greatly increase their savings levels. That fact is one of the many lost in the screaming headlines about financial armageddon. Those headlines are a fabulous tool for lifting tv ratings and newspaper sales but positive trends tend to be overlooked in the rush by the controllers of public opinion to find misery amidst hope.

Let's hope the gradual rise in faith continues. Time will tell!

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CMSF 2009
Mar 27, 2009

I was a delegate to the Conference of Major Super Funds (CMSF) held on the Gold Coast this week. The conference was, in my view, very relevant, well-organised and beneficial. A host of well-informed, astute and thought-provoking speakers presented on issues including corporate governance, group insurance, the shape of the Australian and world economies, branding and the regulatory environment. Views were divided between those in the pessimist's camp, those who felt that Australia was far from immune to the severe international downturn and those who believed that Australia would suffer comparatively minor pain. Discussions were spirited and well-substantiated.

There was widespread belief that what the international financial sector needs is not more regulation but far better regulation. One speaker traced the malaise afflicting the world from late 2007 onwards to the embracement of the idea that senior financial executives would never consciously drive their companies onto the rocks - that is, that greed would never take over from financial rationality and commitment to due diligence and responsible corporate governance. The widepread acceptance of this optimistic take on human nature subsequently lead to the era of self-regulation, advocated the speaker, and the growth of rorting, irresponsible lending and systemic corporate breakdown. This was one of many exceptional presentations given by some of Australia's leading experts.

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Share market - bear market rally or the start of better times?
Mar 27, 2009

With the Dow Jones up 20% in the past few weeks and the local market up 17%, the optimists amongst us are hopeful that we may have reached the bottom of what has been a tumultuous slide. The pessimists are writing off this much-welcomed rise in stocks as just an upward tick in the market, forming part of a "W" shaped run of volatility and false dawns. Most economists point to the fact that in past recessions, stock market recovery has preceded a return to positive economic growth by around 6 months. If we are to see an improvement in business investment, hiring intentions around the world (and Australia) and general economic improvment, we should be starting to see a sustained (albeit tentative and incremental) rise in share values over the coming months. The massive fall in share prices in the past 12 - 15 months have factored in a severe recession (at best). Only time will tell if the unprecedented governmental actions in Australia and internationally will arrest that decline, put a floor under corporate and consumer confidence and return us to growth. A common view is that Australia may be suffering a short and shallow drop into negative GDP growth but views are many and varied as to the likelihood of that scenario. The US, China and Japan will have a major bearing on our fate.

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Surprisingly positive employment news from ABS
Feb 12, 2009

 

In surprisingly positive news, the Australian Bureau of Statistics released figures today which indicated that total employment rose in January 2009 by 1,200 to 10.74 million seasonally adjusted.

Australia's unemployment rate was a seasonally adjusted 4.8 per cent in January.

5% is generally regarded as signifying a state of full employment.  

Full-time employment rose by 33,700 to 7.671 million and part-time employment was down 32,600 to 3.071 million.

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US Treasury releases "bad bank assets" proposal
Feb 11, 2009

The US Treasury today released a proposal to mop up "bad bank" assets and revive consumer lending. Costing up to $2 trillion, the plan seeks to identify and consolidate bad debts for the purpose of containment in the hope that credit markets can achieve greater liquidity. The markets responded poorly after its release, with the Dow industrials index down 4% due to alleged claims of insufficient detail in the package.

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RBA Chief calls for stricter regulatory regime
Feb 11, 2009

In an important speech yesterday in Kuala Lumpur to a meeting of central bank chiefs, RBA Governor Glenn Stevens has called for a stiffening of lending controls to avoid a repeat performance of the global financial crisis in the future. His central premise was that the financial system must adopt a much higher degree of "distrust of leverage, in all its forms". His view is that central banks have a responsibility to act quickly and decisively in an environment where asset prices are rising rapidly in order to deflate "bubbles" before they build momentum.

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Comparatively favourable OECD report on Australian economy
Dec 01, 2008

The recently released OECD report on the global economic downturn lists Australia as a country, alongside Canada, France and Italy, that is likely to be less affected than most. It is predicting a rise in the Australian unemployment rate to 5% in 2009 and 6% in 2010. Theses figures need to be seen in the context of 5% unemployment generally being regarded as "full employment". It further predicts that Australia's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) will weaken from 2.5% in 2008 to around 1.75% in 2009 before growing to 2.75% in 2010. The unemployment rate in Australia is currently 4.3%.

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Strong October employment figures
Nov 06, 2008

Surprisingly strong October employment figures were released today, with the Australian jobless rate staying at a thirty year low of 4.3%. Most analysts expected the rate to rise to 4.4%.

The Federal government has reported a net gain of 34,300 new jobs in October whereas a drop of 10,000 was expected. A significant factor has been the rise in the number of part time roles created (43,500) while full time positions dropped by 10,000. The Australian government is now expecting the unemployment rate to rise to 5% (which is still full employment by the most commonly used definition) and to 5.75% by mid 2010.

By contrast, the US government is expected to reveal on Friday this week that the American unemployment rate has risen to 6.3%. This is consistent with the relative weakness of GDP in the USA.

The most positive aspect of the continuing resilience of the Australian employment market is the avoidance (for now) of a sudden drop in income for people, which of course would put further downward pressure on consumption, then GDP and finally hiring intentions.

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The power of international sovereign wealth funds
Oct 16, 2008

One of the least understood but most powerful financial instruments is the sovereign wealth fund. The scale of these funds is difficult to comprehend. For example, the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority currently controls US$550 billion or A$774 billion and is the world's largest government sponsored fund. The Kuwait Investment Authority currently has assets of US$250 billion.

Needless to say, both countries are oil-rich and are in the process of hoarding cash, rather than using their holdings to buy up distressed financial companies. Their unwillingness to invest is due to the almost halving in the global oil price from $145 per barrel to $75 per barrel in the past 12 months. With uncertain future revenue flows, the funds are taking a conservative investment stance. Treasury bills have become their default investment of choice, in the absence of certainty and stability in the financial markets.

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A career in Financial Services Communications
Oct 10, 2008

One of the growth areas in financial services employment in recent times has been Communications. A growing number of people have an interest in specialising in the area, and seek information as to future career options, educational requirements and responsibilities undertaken.

A Communications Consultant in a super fund is responsible for the accurate, accessible and compliant communication of information to members and employers. Communications can take the form of newsletters (online and print), website and intranet, product disclosure documents and annual reports. Communications consultants also make a valued contribution to promotions, sponsorships, events, annual statement design and public presentations.

Generally, an undergraduate degree in either communications or marketing is required and post graduate qualifications are always valued. Career options are diverse. It is possible to progress to a Communications Management role, or potentially to a Marketing Management role provided you have strong skills in marketing strategy as well as sound communications experience. It is a well-paid sub-sector of the financial service field, and offers diverse stimulation and generally the chance to work in a creative and collegiate environment.

Communications is also an area that will remain integral to the success of the fund or company you are working with, regardless of economic conditions. In fact, it could be argued that when the economy is under pressure, super fund members expect more communication and assurance from their super fund, underlining the importance of communications consultants in facilitating member retention and growth. As a finance job, communications is currently hard to beat.

To discuss this further, please call Robert Kyte on (03) 9690 7138 or 0425 737 905 or alternatively click here to explore all our finance jobs.

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Slight slowing of employment growth
Oct 10, 2008

Federal government labour reports released on October 9 2008 revealed a slight slowing in the Australian labour market. Employers hired a net 2,200 more employees in September, which was consistent with predictions made by economists and employment experts. After an unanticipated drop in the Australian unemployment rate in August 2008 to 4.1%, it rose slightly to 4.3% in September owing to a rise in the participation rate

Most economists expect the jobless rate to rise to around 5% by the middle of 2009, reflecting a general softening in business conditions and a drop in consumer confidence. Interestingly, 5% has traditionally been regarded for decades as being the point at which the Australian economy is experiencing "full employment". What we have had in Australia for the past two years is labour shortages, which has constrained GDP due to a lack of capacity to meet demand.

Economists expect that the softening employment market will further prompt the Reserve Bank of Australia to ease monetary policy and continue to cut interest rates in the coming months, after a completely unpredicted cut of 1% in early October 2008.

To discuss this issue further, or explore the many finance jobs which KFR currently have available, click here or call Robert Kyte on (03) 9690 7138 or 0425 737 905   

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Effect of financial market difficulties on employment market
Oct 07, 2008

The dramatic events in the global financial markets in recent months have taken many by surprise, both in terms of their depth and speed. The passage of the US government rescue package through both houses of Congress was expected to stabilise credit markets and inject confidence into the US and subsequently world financial markets but there are residual fears that more needs to be done. European banks have been suffering from general nervousness about the availability of credit lines and inter-bank lending rates have risen dramatically, which is the reason why we in Australia may not get the full benefit of a cut by the RBA today. Approximately half off all Australian funds for home loans are sourced locally, through term deposits from local investors, and the other half is sourced from international lenders.

The effect of all of this is that Australian financial employers are generally more reticent about hiring new staff than they were in 2007. However, there are still sections of the financial services market that are continuing to expand. Communications consultant and management, Risk Management and Compliance/Corporate Governance continue to be "hot spots" in employment growth, partially because of the international events described above. At the junior end of the finance jobs market, Superannuation Contact Centre staff are very much in demand for the same reason. When investment returns are reduced and volatile, fund members want more communication from the representatives of their Fund.

To explore the many finance jobs which Kyte Financial currently have, click here to view them or phone (03) 9690 7138

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Growth areas in the financial services sector
Sep 12, 2008

The Financial Services sector has been impacted by global and domestic economic pressures, but a number of areas within it continue to grow  possibly as a result of theses pressures. For example, the fact that almost all superannuation fund members are going to be receiving a statement this year detailing that they have experienced a loss underlines the need for very careful engagement of members and communication with them. A consequence of this is that many super funds are increasing the size of their communications and contact centre divisions.

Well-qualified and experienced superannuation communications consultants are in demand, particularly those who have a strong understanding of compliance requirements. There is still over $1 trillion invested in superannuation in Australia and the demand for administrators, managers, compliance specialists, business analysts and relationship managers continues to be strong.

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Strong August employment growth
Sep 12, 2008

Figures released this week by the Australian Bureau of Statistics have revealed resilient employment growth. Economists had widely expected that the Australian seasonally adjusted unemployment rate would rise from 4.3% in July to 4.4% in August. Surprisingly, it fell to 4.1%. The number of employed people in Australia rose by 14,600 in a month.

This is good news, and defies the growing perception that the Australian economy was slipping into a state where unemployment would steadily increase. Perhaps the memories of employers of finding it very difficult to find suitable staff in 2006 and 2007 is so fresh in their minds that they are determined to retain their staff despite the current softening of economic conditions due to rapid interest rate rises and fuel costs in the first half of 2008.

On top of a positive upswing in August of consumer sentiment, the recent interest rate cut and the drop in the world oil price to just $100 per barrel (down from $145 just a few months ago), there are some positive signs for the local economy amidst the well documented volatility and weakness of the global economy. Uncertainty prevails about the effect of world events on Australia's economy which continues to grow (albeit more slowly).

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Excellent positions available with blue-chip companies
Aug 01, 2008

The financial services sector has experienced a period of sustained volatility but it would be a mistake to believe that the end effect of that is that exceptional opportunities for career growth and remuneration increases are no longer available.

On the contrary, there are still a significant number of sub-sectors in the financial services field in which employers are still struggling to identify sufficient numbers of talented and motivated staff, at all ends of the seniority spectrum. Superannuation fund administrators, general insurance account executives, compliance specialists, risk management professionals and proven people and change managers are still much in demand!

Don?t put your career on hold ? there are plenty of financial services opportunities for you to explore if you have the right experience, qualifications and attitude.

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Moving companies in an uncertain environment
Jul 17, 2008

 

Some people are understandably reticent about the prospect of moving from one company to another when there is a global air of economic uncertainty which has, to a limited extent to date, impacted on Australia. It is natural to feel a little cautious.

There is, however, a flipside to this. There is much to be said for joining a company now that you perceive to be more financially able to resist economic pressures. Providing you do your research carefully, one of the best ways to lessen your own sense of uncertainty is to join a new employer that will be able to continue offering you ongoing opportunities, due to strong management, financial prudence and intelligent decision-making.

The questions you should be asking yourself now are:

  • how well will my current company cope with any future financial pressure?

  • does this company have a contingency plan in place and careful risk management?

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July 1 New Financial Year for the Financial Services Sector. New Superannuation Jobs and Financial Positions are posted in the 'Candidates' section regularly
Jul 01, 2008

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Financial Recruitment Consultant provides 20 Tips to assist Financial Services employees secure Finance Jobs and Financial Positions
Jun 05, 2008

To put your best foot forward, browse through the following 20 job interview tips. The following information is a basic outline which should provide an advantage when applying for financial positions. For more information please contact us


Job Interview Tips No. 1

- Come prepared

Know yourself - your strengths, weaknesses and accomplishments. A job interview is not the time to wing it. Prepare as much as you would for a presentation to the Board of Directors at your company.

Job Interview Tips No. 2

- Research the company

Find out as much as you can about the company through annual reports, Newspapers and the net. Your effort will show in the job interview, and you will be seen as proactive, hardworking and astute.

Job Interview Tips No. 3

- Dress appropriately to match the company culture

Many companies have adopted corporate casual wear. Check with your contact to see what they require. When in doubt, always err on the side of formal business attire.

Job Interview Tips No. 4

- Arrive on-time or early

Punctuality is a subtle clue about attitude and behaviour. Tardiness, no matter the excuse, is a major blunder. Research in advance what your parking options are and allow plenty of time.

Job Interview Tips No. 5

- Exhibit enthusiasm

First impressions, positive or negative, dramatically affect the ultimate evaluation. You can make or break an job interview within the first five minutes.

Job Interview Tips No. 6

- Appear friendly and outgoing

Smile and say hello to everyone. A positive reaction from the support staff is an important factor in the evaluation. Many hires have been heavily influenced by an Administrative Assistant.

Job Interview Tips No. 7

- Be self-confident

High self-esteem and self-confidence are the hallmarks of the successful individual. With confidence, be able to demonstrate how you have overcome obstacles. There is nothing wrong with feeling good about yourself.

Job Interview Tips No. 8

- Come prepared for key questions

Practice your responses to all the typical questions, such as "tell me about yourself" and "why are you looking for a new position?" How well you speak will have as big an impact as what you say.

Job Interview Tips No. 9

- Remain involved

The most effective job interviews are those where an active two-way conversation takes place ratehr than the typical question and answer type. Begin early in the interview to inject your own relevant insight. Remember, don't interrupt your interviewer.

Job Interview Tips No. 10

- Establish your worth

Discuss your specific accomplishments that demonstrate a proactive attitude. Such as: have you installed systems, done something not required, trained someone, etc. It is always important to demonstrate how you either created revenue or saved expenses, and be specific with the amounts and how you accomplished that goal.

Job Interview Tips No. 11

- Know your six key strengths

Be prepared to discuss in detail and with examples your five or six main attributes. These should be the ultimate reason you get the job over someone else. Assuming you have done the proper homework on the company, these strengths should also be closely aligned to the key traits the employer is looking for in a person to fill their position.

Job Interview Tips No. 12

- Give 1 to 2 minute responses

Communication is the key to successful interviewing. A minimum of one to two minutes of well-prepared discussion gives the interviewer insight into your intellect and supports your contentions.

Job Interview Tips No. 13

- Provide examples/details

Support statements about yourself with specific examples. These will provide legitimacy to your claims. Without them, the interviewer won?t accept them as valid.

Job Interview Tips No. 14

- Remain attentive

Stay alert during the job interview. Maintain good eye contact. Sit forward in your chair. Be animated. Show high levels of interest and stay enthused. These actions can maintain or generate momentum during the interview. This is especially important when you are doing multiple interviews on the same day. The energy level must be as high for the last as it is for the first.

Job Interview Tips No. 15

- Don't be arrogant

A presumptuous, overbearing attitude will offset the finest abilities. There's a fine line between being too confident and cocky. Don't cross that line.

Job Interview Tips No. 16

- Ask probing questions

A few strategic questions can demonstrate your intelligence, analytical skills and assertiveness. Have these prepared from your research. Avoid superficial small talk.

Job Interview Tips No. 17

- Be positive about co-workers

Don't bad-mouth previous positions, companies or employers. No matter how well founded, this implies a negative attitude, typical of those who don't take personal responsibility for their actions.

Job Interview Tips No. 18

- Clearly state your interest

By the conclusion of the interview, state that you are definitely interested in the position and would like to know when the next step will take place. It is best to demonstrate this interest throughout the session. Be careful not to go overboard.

Job Interview Tips No. 19

- Know your objective and end with it

Establish your objective before the job interview, like a second interview or an offer. Ask for it if you have not achieved it. Ask a question such as, "do you think my skills match your needs?" This gets straight to the point and, at worse, reveals other obstacles to overcome.

Job Interview Tips No. 20

- Have fun

Your career and work position are all about enjoyment and accomplishing their respective challenges. The interviewer on the other side of the table most likely is looking for somebody who has enjoyed the meeting. So should you.

 

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Which financial services professionals are most in demand?
Jul 16, 2008

The financial services employment market is a constantly evolving one and is affected by global and domestic economic conditions, legislative changes, company and sector fortunes and the numbers of restructures/redundancies occurring. To date in 2008, the most sought after people are experienced compliance and corporate governance specialists, superannuation technical staff, marketing managers and superannuation fund administration staff. Experienced business analysts continue to be scarce in supply, and risk professionals are always in demand.

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Kyte Financial Recruitment (KFR) launches its new Online Platform
May 08, 2008

Kyte Financial Recruitment is a recruitment consulting firm that specialises in the sourcing of suitable candidates for permanent roles in the financial sector.

To better serve our existing employees and employers, KFR is pleased to announce the launch of its new website.

Areas of specialisation include superannuation, financial planning, marketing, compliance, insurance, and investments. Based in St Kilda Road Melbourne, the company provides recruitment services to its clients in all states and territories of Australia and offers professional, ethical and informed service to clients and candidates alike.

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The impact of Global Financial Volatility on local Hiring Intentions
Jul 16, 2008

Volatility in the global financial markets inevitably has some bearing on the hiring intentions of Australian financial services companies. However, it is neither uniform or predictable. Recent figures provided by online job-boards suggest that there has been a reduction in the number of banking positions advertised, and this is perhaps to be expected given the rapid tightening in credit conditions and the lending market overall.

Some of Australia's major investment banks have incurred sharp falls in their share price and more difficult trading conditions and this will also be having an impact on their hiring intentions. Superannuation funds have witnessed a general decline in their investment returns but are still hiring new resources and replacing existing ones. Corporate governance, risk management and compliance related positions continue to be areas of focus

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