The usual questions

• How do I prepare an application and CV for that dream job that is advertised?
• When there is an Email address – what is relevant to say? – What isn’t?
• How long should the cover letter be, do I need to re-do the CV?
• How do you ensure that your details gain the attention they need, in the swamp of applications?

We find a lot of candidates have difficulty knowing what the guidelines are when preparing to apply for new job roles. Graduates being new to employment have many questions as do experienced candidates that have been with their place of work between 2-10 years. Finding out what the standards are when job hunting is a tricky business, aside from website information there is little practical help available for people when they have specific questions to ask.

If you are currently in the job market and you have seen an advert that attracts your attention, then there are certain steps to follow that will ensure your presentation gains that professional edge that will make your application stand out from the pile.

Preparing your CV for the position you are applying for

It is a misconception that once a CV is prepared it can be sent off to a multitude of employers.
Taking the time to adjust your objective statement is a winner.  It is often clear that candidates have one general objective that is being used for every job application; this can make employers feel that there is not passion for the job they have applied for.  Candidates that tailor make each statement go a long way in assisting their chances of success to the next level.

Applying for a job is a distinct process and not everybody will get through the initial screening of CV’s. For example, when applying for a retail fashion management position, emphasis placed on the relevant courses, experience and interests that relate to this specific role should be a priority.

Attention to detail – it’s not just a catch phrase but a priority to ensure a successful Job Application……

Categorizing your CV is a great way for employers to see your relevant work history. Have your Fashion and management experience listed first as this would be the most relevant to the position in this example. Your CV is also an opportunity to stand out. Look at options like having a photo of your self on your CV or a format or style that indicates your interests. Making your CV a personalised document that is functional and targeted toward the position, indicates that you are serious about your job search and your career. 

Writing a cover letter    

Clearly candidates that use their spell check have a better chance of being impressive!
As Email has become so popular this is a convenient way to apply for positions. However there is also an attitude of casualness with some applications when using this format. A quick cover letter sent as an attachment or contained in the body of the Email sets the tone for your application. Grammar errors, spelling mistakes, or confusing sentences, certainly stalls progress for a candidate before they have even spoken to anyone.
Formal introductions when applying for positions stand out. Introduce yourself, explain which position you are applying for and let the employer know what interested you in applying (i.e.: Branding, position, growth opportunities, change of industry etc) This should not be a lengthy self promotion exercise, but a succinct and punchy letter whose aim is to entice the reader to want to know more about you.

A cover letter is also an opportunity to stand out amongst other applicants. If you are a regular computer user, why not think about the presentation of your document in relation to the role you are applying for. Attention to colour, font and format may just help you to stand out and give you the edge.

So attention to detail is the key in a nutshell when it comes to the first initial stages of applying for a job. Taking the time to get it right on paper will only improve your chances of success to the next level. Employers will get a good feel for who you are by the way in which you present yourself on paper.  It is important to invest the time to getting the details right and this is the issue that concerns most job seekers. If you are in full time employment there is precious little time left after family or other commitments to devote to the exercise of job seeking. The important lesson to learn is that this process will need to be a priority and getting the details right now will only assist you in being more productive in your applications.

Remember our team is a phone call away if you have specific questions about the industry.