Over the years I have listened to many grumbles about exam syllabuses and exam pass rates but few about how students prepare themselves for the exam. I have been teaching for some time now and I have a few grumbles which I wish to share with you so that you may reflect on your own style of learning. Dare I hope that my observations may help a few students to study more effectively and pass their exams?
The average student is a ‘coat of many colours’. So which type of student are YOU?
Could this be you….?
The Road-runner enthusiastically rushes into a study commitment with alarming alacrity but without judging distance, pace and stamina. Sacrificing all to the pursuit of learning this student quickly 'burns out', loses study momentum, interest, train of thought and concentration. The student here suffers from 'patchy' learning - understanding earlier parts of the syllabus in more depth than later parts. In the exam the 'Road Runner' is often identified as the One Answer Merchant who produces a near brilliant answer to one question; with other questions not attempted or answered only inadequately.
So there it is. Here is one student caricature (and others just as valid will be posted soon) which is somewhat common and dare I say may even be a version of your own behaviour. Quid rides? Mutato nomine de te fabula narratur. (Why do you laugh? With change of name the story is about you.
Prevent yourself from becoming simply a ‘Road-runner’ or ‘One answer merchant’ by taking advantage of the tony.surridge.co.uk e-books. The series of Tony Surridge +AddVance E-books are specially designed for the ACCA exam syllabuses (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants). Our high quality ACCA study guide is structured around the core study text, with additional mnemonics and charts, supported by activities, as well as exam-status questions and answers for you to practice. Our comprehensive +AddVance electronic study tools provides an essential route-map through the ACCA syllabus and provides an expert interpretation of the subject and the ACCA exam requirements.
Download our free ACCA samples now (using the above link), to see just how helpful these study tools will be for your ACCA studies.
Monday, 8 August 2011
Sunday, 7 August 2011
The 12 rules of studying for your ACCA exams
Some rules to think about when preparing for your ACCA exams
Rule 1:
Be fanatical. Be totally committed - in fact you must positively radiate passion for the subjects you intend to study. A fanatical fervour to study is the minimum level of enthusiasm required at the start of term.
Rule 2:
Planning is everything. It is vital that you organise your study programme before you commence your ACCA studies - work backwards from the date of your targeted ACCA exam and allocate your study time on that basis. Also, ration your available time to accommodate other important needs including your domestic, social and sporting commitments as well as planned holidays and events. Balance different subjects by weighting the subjects you are about to study according to the degree of difficulty you perceive in each – e.g. you may be weak in the computational aspects and feel that more time needs to be devoted to them than for discursive topics. Construct your overall ‘Course Plan’ by drawing up a programme table and slotting your agreed allocated times (by unit of study, etc.) into different days of weeks. You should then regard your ‘’Weekly Course Planner’ as being the most important ancillary document of your studies. In fact – stick it up and look at it every day!
Rule 3: Decide when to study. You may be an ‘early bird’ and work at your best when mind and body wake refreshed by sleep, or alternatively you may be a ‘night owl’ and work best in the late evening ‘burning the midnight oil’ There is no firm and sound rule on this but obviously if you attempt to study when you are tired your ability to assimilate information and facts is reduced and your interest and enthusiasm will waver.
Rule 4: Get addicted to your ACCA study. Get into a study routine as quickly as you can. If possible organise your ACCA study routine so that you use the same place, the same table or desk and plan to work at the same time each day. At the start, study will be a chore … then routine makes it habitual …… and soon you will find it interesting and become addicted!
Rule 5: Stay sane. Encourage your family and friends to assist in your ACCA studies. Don’t become isolated or alienated from your immediate circle by being too introverted while you are studying.
Rule 6: Catch up! If you fall behind in your ‘Weekly Course Plan’ then make a determined effort to bring your ACCA studies back into line.
Rule 7: Don’t abuse your body. Healthy body = Healthy mind. In other words don’t try to do too much each day and get permanently overtired. Don’t go on swotting for lengthy periods without having a break or with-out taking regular exercise of the type appropriate for your needs.
Rule 8: Drill down. Study hard with the aim of understanding, interpreting, appraising, evaluating and using the points covered. And study the entire syllabus!. Studying can be very hard work - but there is no reason why it should not be interesting and enjoyable. Keep a clear-headed perspective. Remember that only two years hard study often results in thirty years or so of rewarding and satisfying employment. Not a bad return on time investment!
Rule 9: Bite the bullet – and work questions. The surest way to succeed in your ACCA exams is to constantly recall, rethink, test and refresh knowledge. Examination status questions act as a stimulus for the learning process and provide a basis by which you can practice answering questions and assess your progress.
Rule 10: Get feedback. The full value of working through exam-status questions will only be gained if you give them the same degree of respect you give to your ACCA exams. Be totally committed, work hard for, and at, questions and be concerned about how well you perform. There is a lot of evidence to suggest that students benefit enormously from tackling questions and getting feedback on how well they are doing. The benefits of practising questions, however, will only be gained if the question is worked under simulated exam conditions with the same strict code of behaviour adopted.
Rule 11: Wind down. Happy times! Your ACCA exam is over and all you need to do now is wait for your exam results. Use the period between your ACCA exams and the exam results, and presumably the commencement of your next study programme wisely. This is a time for holidays and relaxation. Such opportunities should not be wasted. Do not leave an exam hall and immediately start sudying for your next exam - ambitious, committed and interested though you are. You will be doing yourself no favours.
Rule 12: Keep your flag flying. Think on this ….
Ability results from endeavour….
Success results from ability….
Satisfaction results from success.
Work hard in your studies and achieve satisfaction in your life. It’s worth it!
So there is some advice. I suppose that many will not heed it and this semester's styles of learning will be as varied and often as ineffective as before. But at least you can't say we haven't put our points across!
The series of Tony Surridge +AddVance E-books are specially designed for the ACCA exam syllabuses (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants). Our high quality ACCA study guide is structured around the core study text, with additional mnemonics and charts, supported by activities, as well as exam-status questions and answers for you to practice. Our comprehensive +AddVance electronic study tools provides an essential route-map through the ACCA syllabus and provides an expert interpretation of the subject and the ACCA exam requirements.
Download our free ACCA samples now (using the above link), to see just how helpful these study tools will be for your ACCA studies.
Rule 1:
Be fanatical. Be totally committed - in fact you must positively radiate passion for the subjects you intend to study. A fanatical fervour to study is the minimum level of enthusiasm required at the start of term.
Rule 2:
Planning is everything. It is vital that you organise your study programme before you commence your ACCA studies - work backwards from the date of your targeted ACCA exam and allocate your study time on that basis. Also, ration your available time to accommodate other important needs including your domestic, social and sporting commitments as well as planned holidays and events. Balance different subjects by weighting the subjects you are about to study according to the degree of difficulty you perceive in each – e.g. you may be weak in the computational aspects and feel that more time needs to be devoted to them than for discursive topics. Construct your overall ‘Course Plan’ by drawing up a programme table and slotting your agreed allocated times (by unit of study, etc.) into different days of weeks. You should then regard your ‘’Weekly Course Planner’ as being the most important ancillary document of your studies. In fact – stick it up and look at it every day!
Rule 3: Decide when to study. You may be an ‘early bird’ and work at your best when mind and body wake refreshed by sleep, or alternatively you may be a ‘night owl’ and work best in the late evening ‘burning the midnight oil’ There is no firm and sound rule on this but obviously if you attempt to study when you are tired your ability to assimilate information and facts is reduced and your interest and enthusiasm will waver.
Rule 4: Get addicted to your ACCA study. Get into a study routine as quickly as you can. If possible organise your ACCA study routine so that you use the same place, the same table or desk and plan to work at the same time each day. At the start, study will be a chore … then routine makes it habitual …… and soon you will find it interesting and become addicted!
Rule 5: Stay sane. Encourage your family and friends to assist in your ACCA studies. Don’t become isolated or alienated from your immediate circle by being too introverted while you are studying.
Rule 6: Catch up! If you fall behind in your ‘Weekly Course Plan’ then make a determined effort to bring your ACCA studies back into line.
Rule 7: Don’t abuse your body. Healthy body = Healthy mind. In other words don’t try to do too much each day and get permanently overtired. Don’t go on swotting for lengthy periods without having a break or with-out taking regular exercise of the type appropriate for your needs.
Rule 8: Drill down. Study hard with the aim of understanding, interpreting, appraising, evaluating and using the points covered. And study the entire syllabus!. Studying can be very hard work - but there is no reason why it should not be interesting and enjoyable. Keep a clear-headed perspective. Remember that only two years hard study often results in thirty years or so of rewarding and satisfying employment. Not a bad return on time investment!
Rule 9: Bite the bullet – and work questions. The surest way to succeed in your ACCA exams is to constantly recall, rethink, test and refresh knowledge. Examination status questions act as a stimulus for the learning process and provide a basis by which you can practice answering questions and assess your progress.
Rule 10: Get feedback. The full value of working through exam-status questions will only be gained if you give them the same degree of respect you give to your ACCA exams. Be totally committed, work hard for, and at, questions and be concerned about how well you perform. There is a lot of evidence to suggest that students benefit enormously from tackling questions and getting feedback on how well they are doing. The benefits of practising questions, however, will only be gained if the question is worked under simulated exam conditions with the same strict code of behaviour adopted.
Rule 11: Wind down. Happy times! Your ACCA exam is over and all you need to do now is wait for your exam results. Use the period between your ACCA exams and the exam results, and presumably the commencement of your next study programme wisely. This is a time for holidays and relaxation. Such opportunities should not be wasted. Do not leave an exam hall and immediately start sudying for your next exam - ambitious, committed and interested though you are. You will be doing yourself no favours.
Rule 12: Keep your flag flying. Think on this ….
Ability results from endeavour….
Success results from ability….
Satisfaction results from success.
Work hard in your studies and achieve satisfaction in your life. It’s worth it!
So there is some advice. I suppose that many will not heed it and this semester's styles of learning will be as varied and often as ineffective as before. But at least you can't say we haven't put our points across!
The series of Tony Surridge +AddVance E-books are specially designed for the ACCA exam syllabuses (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants). Our high quality ACCA study guide is structured around the core study text, with additional mnemonics and charts, supported by activities, as well as exam-status questions and answers for you to practice. Our comprehensive +AddVance electronic study tools provides an essential route-map through the ACCA syllabus and provides an expert interpretation of the subject and the ACCA exam requirements.
Download our free ACCA samples now (using the above link), to see just how helpful these study tools will be for your ACCA studies.
Get Shortlisted for your next ACCA job... with your Cover Letter
Secure that ACCA job with a decent Cover Letter
1. Your cover letter is your first sales pitch
2. Purpose of your cover letter
3. The ‘golden rule’ of writing a cover letter
4. The contents of your cover letter
5. General guidelines
1. Your cover letter is your first sales pitch
The letter sent with the CV - the ‘Cover letter’ - is a candidate’s first sales pitch to a prospective employer, yet fewer and fewer candidates seem to be taking the time to carefully craft one, especially in this day of e-mailed job applications. A good cover letter introduces you to the recruiter and makes clear why you are so admirably suited for the ACCA job role. It can serve to highlight you accomplishments, call attention to special abilities you possess and showcase your excellent writing skills. It’s simply an overview of ‘you’ - how you and your skills relate to the ACCA position as well as providing an essential first impression of your personality and level-headedness. Remember, you do not get a second chance to make a first impression and you want that impression to be very positive.
2. Purpose of your cover letter
It is essential to keep these goals in mind when creating your cover letter. A cover letter serves to:
- Create that vitally important favourable first impression
- Introduce yourself
- Show your communication skills
- Display your professionalism
- Demonstrate your personality
ACCA Job adverts and ACCA job descriptions often list “good communication skills” and here is a chance to demonstrate the skills you have. Make sure to use proper grammar, punctuation and capitalisation – this is not the place to exercise your ‘IT text’ skills.
3. The ‘golden rule’ of writing a cover letter
The ‘Golden rule’ is that a cover letter should not be a rehash of your CV. One of the biggest mistakes ACCA job applicants make is to simply copy things straight from their CV. A CV itemises your skills, abilities and experience while the cover letter strategically fills in unexplained gaps, clarifies things, and justifies lapses in your CV. The cover letter should enlarge on your CV and emphasise two important points:
- what you can do for the company, and
- what the company needs that you have to offer.
4. The contents of your cover letter
Your cover letter should have four general sections. The first short paragraph should demonstrate your interest and commitment, and explain why you are writing. It should state the title of the ACCA job (or type of position) you are applying for, as well as how you heard about the company and the position. In this first paragraph you should also refer to your enclosed CV, or to mention that a CV has been delivered separately by electronic means.
The second paragraph should explain your interest in this type of position. You should highlight those qualifications and strengths you possess that are particularly relevant to the job opportunity, and use action verbs to describe your experience. This paragraph should be brief. Be specific in what you have to offer the company. Even though your CV contains a wealth of information, you must select 2 or 3 key points - whether qualifications, experience, aptitude or personal attributes - which match your understanding of the company’s needs, gathered through studying their advert, job description, or website. (For ideas on the use of action verbs please refer to the http://www.tonysurridge.co.uk/job-search free guide, '20 Ways of Getting your CV in the Yes Pile’.)
The third paragraph should briefly explain gaps in your CV, clarify things in it that may not be clear and justify certain actions that you have taken in your career, such as why you only stayed eight months in one particular position. Remember, the essence here is one of brevity!
The fourth part is the closing paragraph. In this you respectfully request action, such as an appointment, an interview, or some other outcome. Make things easy for the recruiter by listing the best times to call you, the best number to call you on, and/or your e-mail address. Close by restating your interest in the company, and the position (if appropriate).
5. General guidelines
The following points should help you in writing an effective cover letter:
- The cover letter should not be more than one page. Use A4 sized paper. Use no more than seven lines per paragraph.
- Your cover letter should not look like it has been distributed as a standard form letter to numerous employers. It should be customised to the needs of the employer. Address your letter to the person who can employ you. If you do not know the name of the person, call the company and find out the name and title of the person to whom to address your letter. This shows initiative and resourcefulness and will impress the recruiter that you figured out a way to address him/her personally But – use name and title and don’t try to guess their gender – don’t even try to get into the minefield of ‘mrs’, ‘ms’ or ‘miss’!
- The cover letter should not appear self-centred but rather job or employer-centred. Downplay “I” and emphasise “you”. Try to convert “I haves” into “you wants” for the employer. Put across the feeling of ‘ What can I do for your rganisation’. This is where your research comes in. Make it clear that you didn’t just pick this company out of an advert. You know who they are, what they do, and you have a definite reason for choosing them. Also, make sure your letter doesn’t project an overly condescending, belligerent and obnoxious tone. Don’t be too cocky!
- There should be no grammatical, spelling or typing errors. Proofread the cover letter, and have someone else proofread it as well.
- It should look professional in form, structure and design. Use block style with one inch side margins. Make sure the letter sounds like you, not something out of a book. Don’t be too informal. Your letter should be as close to a business proposal as possible to get – not a plea for an interview. Your letter should be an accurate reflection of your personality. Employers are searching for enthusiasm, knowledge, ability and focus.
- It should not be handwritten but rather typed or word-processed. Use the same font and type size as used for your CV.
- Do not use inappropriate stationery or the wrong envelope size. Match CV stationery if sending hard copies.
- Be sure to include contact information - a return address, phone number and e-mail address.
- The primary goal of the cover letter is to get an interview. Be sure to request one at the end of the letter.
- And finally, be prepared to instigate a follow-up telephone call a week later. Let your prospective employer know you will be doing this in your cover letter. This may be just enough to get them to hold onto your cover letter and give it a more thorough reading.
For advice on how to improve your chances of obtaining a work position refer to the http://www.tonysurridge.co.uk/job-search/ Boost Your Chances’ free guide.
Alternatively head to our website to see a range of ACCA jobs available throughout the UK from ACCA job recruiters
1. Your cover letter is your first sales pitch
2. Purpose of your cover letter
3. The ‘golden rule’ of writing a cover letter
4. The contents of your cover letter
5. General guidelines
1. Your cover letter is your first sales pitch
The letter sent with the CV - the ‘Cover letter’ - is a candidate’s first sales pitch to a prospective employer, yet fewer and fewer candidates seem to be taking the time to carefully craft one, especially in this day of e-mailed job applications. A good cover letter introduces you to the recruiter and makes clear why you are so admirably suited for the ACCA job role. It can serve to highlight you accomplishments, call attention to special abilities you possess and showcase your excellent writing skills. It’s simply an overview of ‘you’ - how you and your skills relate to the ACCA position as well as providing an essential first impression of your personality and level-headedness. Remember, you do not get a second chance to make a first impression and you want that impression to be very positive.
2. Purpose of your cover letter
It is essential to keep these goals in mind when creating your cover letter. A cover letter serves to:
- Create that vitally important favourable first impression
- Introduce yourself
- Show your communication skills
- Display your professionalism
- Demonstrate your personality
ACCA Job adverts and ACCA job descriptions often list “good communication skills” and here is a chance to demonstrate the skills you have. Make sure to use proper grammar, punctuation and capitalisation – this is not the place to exercise your ‘IT text’ skills.
3. The ‘golden rule’ of writing a cover letter
The ‘Golden rule’ is that a cover letter should not be a rehash of your CV. One of the biggest mistakes ACCA job applicants make is to simply copy things straight from their CV. A CV itemises your skills, abilities and experience while the cover letter strategically fills in unexplained gaps, clarifies things, and justifies lapses in your CV. The cover letter should enlarge on your CV and emphasise two important points:
- what you can do for the company, and
- what the company needs that you have to offer.
4. The contents of your cover letter
Your cover letter should have four general sections. The first short paragraph should demonstrate your interest and commitment, and explain why you are writing. It should state the title of the ACCA job (or type of position) you are applying for, as well as how you heard about the company and the position. In this first paragraph you should also refer to your enclosed CV, or to mention that a CV has been delivered separately by electronic means.
The second paragraph should explain your interest in this type of position. You should highlight those qualifications and strengths you possess that are particularly relevant to the job opportunity, and use action verbs to describe your experience. This paragraph should be brief. Be specific in what you have to offer the company. Even though your CV contains a wealth of information, you must select 2 or 3 key points - whether qualifications, experience, aptitude or personal attributes - which match your understanding of the company’s needs, gathered through studying their advert, job description, or website. (For ideas on the use of action verbs please refer to the http://www.tonysurridge.co.uk/job-search free guide, '20 Ways of Getting your CV in the Yes Pile’.)
The third paragraph should briefly explain gaps in your CV, clarify things in it that may not be clear and justify certain actions that you have taken in your career, such as why you only stayed eight months in one particular position. Remember, the essence here is one of brevity!
The fourth part is the closing paragraph. In this you respectfully request action, such as an appointment, an interview, or some other outcome. Make things easy for the recruiter by listing the best times to call you, the best number to call you on, and/or your e-mail address. Close by restating your interest in the company, and the position (if appropriate).
5. General guidelines
The following points should help you in writing an effective cover letter:
- The cover letter should not be more than one page. Use A4 sized paper. Use no more than seven lines per paragraph.
- Your cover letter should not look like it has been distributed as a standard form letter to numerous employers. It should be customised to the needs of the employer. Address your letter to the person who can employ you. If you do not know the name of the person, call the company and find out the name and title of the person to whom to address your letter. This shows initiative and resourcefulness and will impress the recruiter that you figured out a way to address him/her personally But – use name and title and don’t try to guess their gender – don’t even try to get into the minefield of ‘mrs’, ‘ms’ or ‘miss’!
- The cover letter should not appear self-centred but rather job or employer-centred. Downplay “I” and emphasise “you”. Try to convert “I haves” into “you wants” for the employer. Put across the feeling of ‘ What can I do for your rganisation’. This is where your research comes in. Make it clear that you didn’t just pick this company out of an advert. You know who they are, what they do, and you have a definite reason for choosing them. Also, make sure your letter doesn’t project an overly condescending, belligerent and obnoxious tone. Don’t be too cocky!
- There should be no grammatical, spelling or typing errors. Proofread the cover letter, and have someone else proofread it as well.
- It should look professional in form, structure and design. Use block style with one inch side margins. Make sure the letter sounds like you, not something out of a book. Don’t be too informal. Your letter should be as close to a business proposal as possible to get – not a plea for an interview. Your letter should be an accurate reflection of your personality. Employers are searching for enthusiasm, knowledge, ability and focus.
- It should not be handwritten but rather typed or word-processed. Use the same font and type size as used for your CV.
- Do not use inappropriate stationery or the wrong envelope size. Match CV stationery if sending hard copies.
- Be sure to include contact information - a return address, phone number and e-mail address.
- The primary goal of the cover letter is to get an interview. Be sure to request one at the end of the letter.
- And finally, be prepared to instigate a follow-up telephone call a week later. Let your prospective employer know you will be doing this in your cover letter. This may be just enough to get them to hold onto your cover letter and give it a more thorough reading.
For advice on how to improve your chances of obtaining a work position refer to the http://www.tonysurridge.co.uk/job-search/ Boost Your Chances’ free guide.
Alternatively head to our website to see a range of ACCA jobs available throughout the UK from ACCA job recruiters
Preparing for your ACCA exams - Are you a ‘Mantra Chantra’ ‘or ‘Underliner’?
Are you a ‘Mantra Chantra’ ‘or ‘Underliner’?
Over the years I have listened to many grumbles about ACCA exam syllabuses and ACCA exam pass rates but few about how students prepare themselves for the exam. I have been teaching for some time now and I have a few grumbles which I wish to share with you so that you may reflect on your own style of learning. Dare I hope that my observations may help a few students to study more effectively and pass their exams?
The average student is a ‘coat of many colours’. So which type of student are YOU?
Could this be you ….?
The Mantra Chanter thinks that 'something memorised is something learned' and concentrates on memorising lists of facts, definitions, names (of famous authors), formulae and buzz words without enduring the intellectual puzzle of trying to understand what it all means. In the ACCA exam the Mantra Chanter becomes the Underliner who goes to town underlining every word or fact that has been carefully memorised and positioned in the answer - even if not in context.
So there it is. Here is one student caricature ( and others just as valid will be posted soon) which is somewhat common and dare I say may even be a version of your own behaviour. Quid rides? Mutato nomine de te fabula narratur. (Why do you laugh? With change of name the story is about you).
Prevent yourself from becoming simply a Mantra Chanter or Underliner by taking advantage of the tony.surridge.co.uk e-books. The series of Tony Surridge +AddVance E-books are specially designed for the ACCA exam syllabuses (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants). Our high quality ACCA study guide is structured around the core study text, with additional mnemonics and charts, supported by activities, as well as exam-status questions and answers for you to practice. Our comprehensive +AddVance electronic study tools provides an essential route-map through the ACCA syllabus and provides an expert interpretation of the subject and the ACCA exam requirements.
Download our free ACCA samples now (using the above link), to see just how helpful these study tools will be for your ACCA studies.
Over the years I have listened to many grumbles about ACCA exam syllabuses and ACCA exam pass rates but few about how students prepare themselves for the exam. I have been teaching for some time now and I have a few grumbles which I wish to share with you so that you may reflect on your own style of learning. Dare I hope that my observations may help a few students to study more effectively and pass their exams?
The average student is a ‘coat of many colours’. So which type of student are YOU?
Could this be you ….?
The Mantra Chanter thinks that 'something memorised is something learned' and concentrates on memorising lists of facts, definitions, names (of famous authors), formulae and buzz words without enduring the intellectual puzzle of trying to understand what it all means. In the ACCA exam the Mantra Chanter becomes the Underliner who goes to town underlining every word or fact that has been carefully memorised and positioned in the answer - even if not in context.
So there it is. Here is one student caricature ( and others just as valid will be posted soon) which is somewhat common and dare I say may even be a version of your own behaviour. Quid rides? Mutato nomine de te fabula narratur. (Why do you laugh? With change of name the story is about you).
Prevent yourself from becoming simply a Mantra Chanter or Underliner by taking advantage of the tony.surridge.co.uk e-books. The series of Tony Surridge +AddVance E-books are specially designed for the ACCA exam syllabuses (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants). Our high quality ACCA study guide is structured around the core study text, with additional mnemonics and charts, supported by activities, as well as exam-status questions and answers for you to practice. Our comprehensive +AddVance electronic study tools provides an essential route-map through the ACCA syllabus and provides an expert interpretation of the subject and the ACCA exam requirements.
Download our free ACCA samples now (using the above link), to see just how helpful these study tools will be for your ACCA studies.
Saturday, 6 August 2011
Resign with panache
1. Resignation – is it the right decision?
2. Balance your options
3. Give notice
4. No obligation
5. What to say
6. Write a Resignation Letter
7. Ask for a reference
8. Don't forget to tie up the loose ends
9. Return company property
Handing in your resignation isn't always easy. Look at the circumstances. You hate your job, hate your boss and know you’re about to be fired. Or, perhaps you like your job and like your boss but you’ve found a new job and can't wait to start it. Whatever your circumstance, it can be difficult to resign tactfully, and with style. First of all, it’s sometimes difficult to be sure that you really do want to quit. Then, you need to manage your resignation as carefully as you would handle any other career event. It's always wise not to burn bridges - you never know when you will call on your present employer for a reference.
1. Resignation – is it the right decision?
Before you make the decision to resign, be absolutely sure that this is the right decision. There are lots of cases where people have left and then regretted it, sometimes only one day later. They quickly find that they hate the new job and want to go back to their old position. But usually the old position is quickly filled and the person is out of luck. If you're not sure about the position you’ve been offered, ask if you can spend a day or so in the new role, before you give a firm undertaking to accept it. The experience may bolster your decision to take the position or help you decide you don't want it. Also, consider very carefully the benefits of being in your present position.
2. Balance your options
Have you been offered another job? If so, weigh the ups and downs of the new job against your current position. Consider the work environment, the people you work with, flexibility, salary and benefits in addition to the job responsibilities and its career potential. If the new job comes out in front on all counts and you feel positive about this career change, then go for it.
No new job secured? Before you quit, consider a few basic facts. It may take any time between one month and six months, sometimes longer, to find a new position. Unless you quit for a valid cause, you may not be eligible for unemployment benefits. Do you have enough savings or other income to live on? Even if your employment situation is not a happy one, you might want to consider staying with the job you have, as well your pay cheque, and looking for a new job before you resign. The old adage that "it's easier to find a job, when you have a job" does ring true.
3. Give notice
If you have an employment contract that states an agreed period of notice, abide by it. Otherwise, it's usual to offer two weeks notice.
4. No obligation
If your employer asks you stay on beyond two weeks (or whatever the time period is in your contract) you have no obligation to stay. Your new employer will be expecting you to start as planned, at the agreed date. What you could do, is offer to help your previous employer, if asked, after hours and in your own time.
5. What to say
Don't say much more than the fact that you are leaving. Highlight the positive and talk about how much you have benefited by your association with the company, but state that it's time to move on. Offer to help during the changeover and after it. Don't be negative. There's no reason - you're leaving and you want to leave on good terms.
6. Write a Resignation Letter
Even if you resign verbally, still write a resignation letter. A resignation letter can help you preserve a positive relationship with your old employer, while paving the way for you to separate from the company. You never know when you might need your current employer to give you a reference, so it makes sense to take the time to write a refined and professional resignation letter. Use the few sample resignation letters we provide, for suggestions on what to write.
7. Ask for a reference
Before you leave, ask for a letter of recommendation from your manager. As time progresses and people move on, it's easy to lose track of previous employers. With a letter available, you'll have written evidence of your credentials to submit to future recruiters.
8. Don't forget to tie up the loose ends
Find out about the benefits and salary you are entitled to receive upon leaving. Collect your P45 tax form.
9. Return company property
Return any company property you have - including documents, computers, keys, phones, and anything else that does not belong to you. The company does not want to chase you to get back their property, and you don't want to be held responsible if it's not returned and accounted for in a suitable manner.
For advice on how to improve your chances of obtaining a work position refer to the tonysurridge.co.uk/job-search/ ‘Boost Your Chances’ free guide.
2. Balance your options
3. Give notice
4. No obligation
5. What to say
6. Write a Resignation Letter
7. Ask for a reference
8. Don't forget to tie up the loose ends
9. Return company property
Handing in your resignation isn't always easy. Look at the circumstances. You hate your job, hate your boss and know you’re about to be fired. Or, perhaps you like your job and like your boss but you’ve found a new job and can't wait to start it. Whatever your circumstance, it can be difficult to resign tactfully, and with style. First of all, it’s sometimes difficult to be sure that you really do want to quit. Then, you need to manage your resignation as carefully as you would handle any other career event. It's always wise not to burn bridges - you never know when you will call on your present employer for a reference.
1. Resignation – is it the right decision?
Before you make the decision to resign, be absolutely sure that this is the right decision. There are lots of cases where people have left and then regretted it, sometimes only one day later. They quickly find that they hate the new job and want to go back to their old position. But usually the old position is quickly filled and the person is out of luck. If you're not sure about the position you’ve been offered, ask if you can spend a day or so in the new role, before you give a firm undertaking to accept it. The experience may bolster your decision to take the position or help you decide you don't want it. Also, consider very carefully the benefits of being in your present position.
2. Balance your options
Have you been offered another job? If so, weigh the ups and downs of the new job against your current position. Consider the work environment, the people you work with, flexibility, salary and benefits in addition to the job responsibilities and its career potential. If the new job comes out in front on all counts and you feel positive about this career change, then go for it.
No new job secured? Before you quit, consider a few basic facts. It may take any time between one month and six months, sometimes longer, to find a new position. Unless you quit for a valid cause, you may not be eligible for unemployment benefits. Do you have enough savings or other income to live on? Even if your employment situation is not a happy one, you might want to consider staying with the job you have, as well your pay cheque, and looking for a new job before you resign. The old adage that "it's easier to find a job, when you have a job" does ring true.
3. Give notice
If you have an employment contract that states an agreed period of notice, abide by it. Otherwise, it's usual to offer two weeks notice.
4. No obligation
If your employer asks you stay on beyond two weeks (or whatever the time period is in your contract) you have no obligation to stay. Your new employer will be expecting you to start as planned, at the agreed date. What you could do, is offer to help your previous employer, if asked, after hours and in your own time.
5. What to say
Don't say much more than the fact that you are leaving. Highlight the positive and talk about how much you have benefited by your association with the company, but state that it's time to move on. Offer to help during the changeover and after it. Don't be negative. There's no reason - you're leaving and you want to leave on good terms.
6. Write a Resignation Letter
Even if you resign verbally, still write a resignation letter. A resignation letter can help you preserve a positive relationship with your old employer, while paving the way for you to separate from the company. You never know when you might need your current employer to give you a reference, so it makes sense to take the time to write a refined and professional resignation letter. Use the few sample resignation letters we provide, for suggestions on what to write.
7. Ask for a reference
Before you leave, ask for a letter of recommendation from your manager. As time progresses and people move on, it's easy to lose track of previous employers. With a letter available, you'll have written evidence of your credentials to submit to future recruiters.
8. Don't forget to tie up the loose ends
Find out about the benefits and salary you are entitled to receive upon leaving. Collect your P45 tax form.
9. Return company property
Return any company property you have - including documents, computers, keys, phones, and anything else that does not belong to you. The company does not want to chase you to get back their property, and you don't want to be held responsible if it's not returned and accounted for in a suitable manner.
For advice on how to improve your chances of obtaining a work position refer to the tonysurridge.co.uk/job-search/ ‘Boost Your Chances’ free guide.
A Soft Skill You Must Have (Part 2 of 2)
In our last article we introduced the importance of presentation skills – here’s the continuation.
“Build your credibility fast with your audience by showing confidence and that you are in control of your subject presentation”, says Mr. Sadaqat, a local manager of a screening company.
The following presentation techniques gathered from various training seminars could help:
- Understand the audience’s background and their motivation to attend.
- Use the most effective audio and visual aids – but don’t overdo it!
- Define the objectives of your presentation.
- Organize the data to be presented in a clear sequence that is persuasive.
- Show confidence while presenting to the audience.
- Control your body language in its movements, gestures and other non-verbal
elements of communication.
- Handle questions and its responses in a professional manner.
- Grab the attention of the audience by delivering a unique presentation “opener”
such as a joke, interesting examples and anecdotes, etc.
The Presentation Design
Your design, and method will help you deliver an excellent presentation with great confidence.
Have a look at these step by step presentation suggestions:
Make a Creative Opening to your Presentation
You can always make your presentation opening unique and memorable. A good example sits with the presenter who was addressing the CEO of major airlines in the US. He was called upon by the organizer to take the floor. He did not. For 10 minutes or so all these CEOs and executives awaited his appearance. When they started to leave their seats, he suddenly shows up and made his opening speech: “Ladies and Gentlemen, sorry for being late – but this is how your airline passengers feel when your planes are late in departure”.
Begin with making sure that your audience is ready to receive the message. This is a milestone in your presentation design.
Then communicate the message. Make sure that the audience listens, receives and understand the message.
- Analogies related to the subject.
- A strong quote.
- Get the audience to do something – interactivity.
- Ask a Question – interactivity again.
- Use an imaginary situation.
- Use humor.
- Use a controversial opening and quickly qualify it.
Introductory Opening Remarks about the Subject
Your introductory opening is very important in the presentation design phase. Here are few advices from some experts we talked with:
- Welcome the people attending and introduce them if it’s a meeting.
- Indicate the time schedule and planned breaks.
- Go through any health and safety routines, such as fire alarm procedures.
- Check that everyone can see the visual aids.
- Acknowledge the start of presentation.
- Mention your name and preferred name.
Presentation skills are all about entertaining your audience and avoid boring them.
Its all about conveying your key message. You need to grab the attention of your audience
Written by Mr. Daniyal Hussain for TonySurridge.co.uk
“Build your credibility fast with your audience by showing confidence and that you are in control of your subject presentation”, says Mr. Sadaqat, a local manager of a screening company.
The following presentation techniques gathered from various training seminars could help:
- Understand the audience’s background and their motivation to attend.
- Use the most effective audio and visual aids – but don’t overdo it!
- Define the objectives of your presentation.
- Organize the data to be presented in a clear sequence that is persuasive.
- Show confidence while presenting to the audience.
- Control your body language in its movements, gestures and other non-verbal
elements of communication.
- Handle questions and its responses in a professional manner.
- Grab the attention of the audience by delivering a unique presentation “opener”
such as a joke, interesting examples and anecdotes, etc.
The Presentation Design
Your design, and method will help you deliver an excellent presentation with great confidence.
Have a look at these step by step presentation suggestions:
Make a Creative Opening to your Presentation
You can always make your presentation opening unique and memorable. A good example sits with the presenter who was addressing the CEO of major airlines in the US. He was called upon by the organizer to take the floor. He did not. For 10 minutes or so all these CEOs and executives awaited his appearance. When they started to leave their seats, he suddenly shows up and made his opening speech: “Ladies and Gentlemen, sorry for being late – but this is how your airline passengers feel when your planes are late in departure”.
Begin with making sure that your audience is ready to receive the message. This is a milestone in your presentation design.
Then communicate the message. Make sure that the audience listens, receives and understand the message.
- Analogies related to the subject.
- A strong quote.
- Get the audience to do something – interactivity.
- Ask a Question – interactivity again.
- Use an imaginary situation.
- Use humor.
- Use a controversial opening and quickly qualify it.
Introductory Opening Remarks about the Subject
Your introductory opening is very important in the presentation design phase. Here are few advices from some experts we talked with:
- Welcome the people attending and introduce them if it’s a meeting.
- Indicate the time schedule and planned breaks.
- Go through any health and safety routines, such as fire alarm procedures.
- Check that everyone can see the visual aids.
- Acknowledge the start of presentation.
- Mention your name and preferred name.
Presentation skills are all about entertaining your audience and avoid boring them.
Its all about conveying your key message. You need to grab the attention of your audience
Written by Mr. Daniyal Hussain for TonySurridge.co.uk
Are you a ‘Clairvoyant’ or ‘Tautologist’?
Over the years I have listened to many grumbles about ACCA exam syllabuses and ACCA exam pass rates but few about how students prepare themselves for the exam. I have been teaching for some time now and I have a few grumbles which I wish to share with you so that you may reflect on your own style of learning. Dare I hope that my observations may help a few students to study more effectively and pass their exams?
The average student is a ‘coat of many colours’. So which type of student are YOU?
Could this be you ….?
The Clairvoyant is extraordinarily proficient at visualising the syllabus without becoming involved in the unwelcome menial and mental work of actual study. Often spotted at the back of class staring out of windows, this student has a deep if obscure devotion to "the easy life". In the exam the 'Clairvoyant' turns into the Tautologist who unable to reason or explain rational facts and figures, simply reiterates each question without embellishment - rather a waste of time because the examiner also has the exam paper!
So there it is. Here is one student caricature ( and others just as valid will be posted soon) which is somewhat common and dare I say may even be a version of your own behaviour. Quid rides? Mutato nomine de te fabula narratur. (Why do you laugh? With change of name the story is about you).
Prevent yourself from becoming simply a Clairvoyant or Tautologist by taking advantage of the tony.surridge.co.uk e-books. The series of Tony Surridge +AddVance E-books are specially designed for the ACCA exam syllabuses (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants). Our high quality ACCA study guide is structured around the core study text, with additional mnemonics and charts, supported by activities, as well as exam-status questions and answers for you to practice. Our comprehensive +AddVance electronic study tools provides an essential route-map through the ACCA syllabus and provides an expert interpretation of the subject and the ACCA exam requirements.
Download our free ACCA samples now (using the above link), to see just how helpful these study tools will be for your ACCA studies.
The average student is a ‘coat of many colours’. So which type of student are YOU?
Could this be you ….?
The Clairvoyant is extraordinarily proficient at visualising the syllabus without becoming involved in the unwelcome menial and mental work of actual study. Often spotted at the back of class staring out of windows, this student has a deep if obscure devotion to "the easy life". In the exam the 'Clairvoyant' turns into the Tautologist who unable to reason or explain rational facts and figures, simply reiterates each question without embellishment - rather a waste of time because the examiner also has the exam paper!
So there it is. Here is one student caricature ( and others just as valid will be posted soon) which is somewhat common and dare I say may even be a version of your own behaviour. Quid rides? Mutato nomine de te fabula narratur. (Why do you laugh? With change of name the story is about you).
Prevent yourself from becoming simply a Clairvoyant or Tautologist by taking advantage of the tony.surridge.co.uk e-books. The series of Tony Surridge +AddVance E-books are specially designed for the ACCA exam syllabuses (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants). Our high quality ACCA study guide is structured around the core study text, with additional mnemonics and charts, supported by activities, as well as exam-status questions and answers for you to practice. Our comprehensive +AddVance electronic study tools provides an essential route-map through the ACCA syllabus and provides an expert interpretation of the subject and the ACCA exam requirements.
Download our free ACCA samples now (using the above link), to see just how helpful these study tools will be for your ACCA studies.
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