One thing to think about when apply for a job is...
- Will I be a problem to my new employer ?
- or will I solve his problems ?
An employer Takes you on, to be productive not add to his burden.
If you have to take a problem (above your pay grade) to an employer. you should also take the solution.
If you do not, he either finds out from someone else, or never even notices you solved the problem.
Bosses should always be kept in the loop, But never pester them.
The more often you can offer the solution, the better they regard you.
When you send your CV it should match the Job requirements point by point.. If it does not you don't get called. If you have other abilities or achievements, mention them, but don't boost them, or they might think you want a different job.
For the interview....
Find out every thing you can about the company, the job, products/ services and major company players and the same for competitors.
Work out what you can offer them ( mainly related to the job on offer, but also any appropriate extras you can bring to the table.)
Bring samples of your work, projects you have completed, and details of related studies.
Be Honest about what you expect from them...
Further study/training opportunities, Pay, benefits, vacation time.
If you do not settle these things at this time, you will start at the lowest scale for everything.
What ever the position, they are looking for self starters, not someone who has to be pushed. In degree level positions they want self starters who can think for themselves, and lead others.
In my last position I started at the highest point on offer. ( on review after six months the position was re-graded three steps higher.
Late in the interview for my previous position, I was asked why I wanted the Job... I said that I was no longer sure that I did, as it no longer seemed to match the profile in the advertisement.
We then got down to discussing the job, not me, which resulted in quite a few enhancements.
I was always called to interview after sending in my CV and application. I was only once not offered the position. (They gave that stupid reason, that I was too experienced and over qualified) But it was a job I wanted, and would have been a marvellous route to new opportunities.
Getting an interview or an offer is never just luck. It takes a lot of research and effort.
I am now well retired, such things are only memories.