Applying for jobs that many others are after - tips for success?

[GrapefruitMoon]

I am planning to go back to work part-time soon. I am thinking of trying to get a part-time admin/finance post at a school but realise that there will be squillions of other mums after the same jobs.... all highly/over qualified (as I am I suppose...)

How do I go about "selling" myself so they choose me rather than another candidate?

Haven't done an interview in nearly 20 years (apart from internal ones in last job) and haven't done paid work for several years (but have done voluntary work recently..)

The process starts with your CV.
You need to make sure that you actually get offered an interview so that you can talk your way into the job.
Your CV should be simple, clear, professional and no more than 2 sides of A4 long. (No one has the time or patience to read more than that)
Make sure you include all your recent experience and try to emphasise its relevance to the job in hand.
(It's best to change your CV specifically for each job you apply for, rather than making a general one that you send with all applications)
Don't bother printing it on coloured paper, in funny fonts, adding illustrations or any of the other gimicks people use to get themselves noticed. You can't judge the taste of the person doing the choosing and you might end up in the bin before he's even read it.

Once you get an interview, research the school and job as much as you can beforehand.
That way you can demonstrate that you are serious about that particular job and not just wanting any job available.

Prepare a couple of questions beforehand that you can ask when given the chance. That will show your interest and that you have thought about the position.

Other than that, just be yourself and I'm sure you'll do fine.
Don't put yourself down before you've even started!!

I'm sure other people will have some far less obvious and constructive comments for you...

Good luck!!

If it's a state school, you won't be allowed to submit a CV. Public sector appointment are application form only.

Makes things easier IMO!