Job Application Advice

[Puppetmaster]

Hello

Few things, I am applying for a job which is described as IT Helpdesk Support/Administrator providing technical support to all departments within X. First and Second line support L1/L2 to X staff for IT issues.

There is no salary listed for this position. Having a look at similiar jobs advertised around the south east, the pay seems to range from around 18k to 25k. When should I bring this up? Should I leave it until the interview or wait for them to ask.

Secondly, I have a good friend who has been working for this company for around 3 - 4 years. Should I mention that I know him (he was the one that told me about the job)

 

[HangTime]

Should I leave it until the interview or wait for them to ask.

Depends on your minimum (and I mean genuine minimum, not what you tell them) salary requirements. If they are fairly high then you may want to try and ascertain an approximate salary range from the agent/HR person to avoid wasting everyone's time in the event they have a much lower figure in mind. If your requirements are fairly modest, then leave it until it gets brought up.

As for mentioning a colleague I'd say that's fine but don't phrase it the way you have there "he was the one that told me about the job" as rightly or wrongly some might interpret that to mean you aren't really that keen on the company/job, you are just casually following up the lead your friend gave you (versus actively seeking out a position there).

 

[Puppetmaster]

Depends on your minimum (and I mean genuine minimum, not what you tell them) salary requirements. If they are fairly high then you may want to try and ascertain an approximate salary range from the agent/HR person to avoid wasting everyone's time in the event they have a much lower figure in mind. If your requirements are fairly modest, then leave it until it gets brought up.

As for mentioning a colleague I'd say that's fine but don't phrase it the way you have there "he was the one that told me about the job" as rightly or wrongly some might interpret that to mean you aren't really that keen on the company/job, you are just casually following up the lead your friend gave you (versus actively seeking out a position there).

Regarding salary, my aim is not that high realistically as I currently work in a small retail shop where salary is fairly limited although I do posses the majority of what they are asking for the job. I was thinking if asked of saying something along the lines "Based on my experience, skills and what this type of employment pays, I would accept / expecting a salary in the region of X" which would probably be in the region of 18 - 20k.

RE my friend, Should I say something along the lines of that he has given me a positive view on the company or something similiar to that, to give the idea that the company is a great place to work etc.

 

[HangTime]

Yep. Just make sure:

1) Your friend will back you up if asked about you [to be honest I have no idea if prospective employers can solicit unofficial references this way, but it makes sense to me!]
2) You have researched the company well (either through him or otherwise) so that you can demonstrate how those positive views have rubbed off on you.