How many applicants do you get for internships or entry-level jobs?

We don't generally offer internships, although it's something we will be reviewing in the future. We often receive 150+ applications for entry-level jobs and we normally interview six or seven, so competition is very tough.

Do you only want people who have worked for a charity before?

It isn't essential for applicants to have worked for a charity. Some experience of the charity or not-for-profit sector either in a paid or voluntary capacity can, however, be helpful.

It's quite common for people to move into working at CAFOD from different sectors. Usually, however, they have worked in a related field. These include trained teachers coming to work in our schools team and journalists joining our publications team. Other people have made a complete career change, including lawyers who are now working in office administration.

What skills are you looking for?

The skills we are looking for vary greatly between individual jobs but they generally include good communication skills (verbal and written) and the ability to work on your own initiative as well as part of a team. We also look for familiarity with computer packages (particularly Word, email, the internet and sometimes databases and spreadsheets). We also value the ability to think creatively, generate ideas, enthusiasm and being able to cope with lots of work and pressures, while staying good-humoured and highly motivated.

What errors do people commonly make in applications?

Spelling CAFOD wrong! This is particularly bad if they are applying for an editorial job, where proof-reading would be part of their responsibilities. In that instance, spelling mistakes would mean instant rejection whilst for other jobs, an occasional error can be overlooked. Other major mistakes include not reading carefully what they are being asked to do.

We stress that we cannot accept CVs on their own but people regularly send these, rather than completing the application form. You would also be amazed how many people do not read the person specification carefully. It's vital that you ensure you meet all the essential criteria before applying. For example, it's pointless applying for a job where fluent French is essential if you can't speak French!

How can someone maximise their chance of success?

Your application should clearly demonstrate how you meet each of the criteria and illustrate it using specific examples. It's vital that you really make the most of all the things you've done before, including voluntary work, holiday jobs, involvement in university societies and paid employment. Emphasise the skills you've gained and exactly what your role involved in each example.

Don't be tempted to write too much though

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