If you are currently in the market for a new job then
the chances are you will find out about newly available roles through
mediums like newspapers, magazines and websites - once you have
received the particulars of the job, employers will most likely be
rather specific when asking people to apply.
We wrote this brief
piece about responding to job adverts to help you get that application
to your potential future employer just right.
Before You Apply
Make
sure that you have read fully the advert, and that you meet any
'required' criteria - employers ensure they put this in job adverts so
that they don't receive applications from unsuitable applicants - and
to save you time.
If you do not read the job advert fully, you
may be missing key instructions that the employer wants you to do - for
instance including a reference number or writing in black ink. Some
employers want you specifically exclude things from your application -
for instance they may not want to see a CV that accompanies your
application, they prefer you to complete their application and send
that in on it's own.
Completing your Application
- Write as neatly as you can - always include a covering letter unless the job specification tells you not to.
- Write N/A (not applicable) instead of leaving any sections or boxes blank but do not abbreviate or shorten any other words
- Tailor
your application to the skills and experience outlined in the job
specification - if you are sending in your CV, change it slightly to
highlight relevant points by subtly changing words or sentences
- Include
full address and contact details - it is not good manners to accept
calls regarding applications at work, so include your mobile number and
email address
- The education sections should always begin
with your secondary school and results there, you do not need to
include primary school details
- If you are currently
studying, then include details in the education section, explaining
clearly that you have not yet completed the course
- Always list your past roles with most recent first, and be sure to list voluntary jobs too
Even
if you are confident everything (spelling, grammar) is correct, we
would always recommending reading it over and having someone else check
it for you before sending.
Some people choose to take a copy of
the application or CV with them to the interview though this is not
always required. If you do take one ensure that it is printed nicely
and in good condition (holding a scruffy looking CV will not do you
application any good). Also, if you use customised CVs - as we would
recommend - you should remind yourself of the examples you have used in
the CV so that you can mention them in the interview but also add some
new ones in your answers.
Keep a copy of your application, and
refer to it again if you are called for interview. If your application
is one you are very pleased with, you may wish to use it to help you
the next time you write a job application and covering letter.