Jobfinder is teaming up with the Department for Employment and Learning to make sure job hunters have the best possible chance of securing that dream career.
Each week Mary McDermott from the Careers Service will be here with timely advice to help give our readers the edge. This week she’s looking at how to ensure your job application stands out for all the right reasons…
The application form
Many companies and recruitment agents will ask you to apply using a standard application form so that they can compare applicants on a like-with-like basis by considering their approach to the form and how they complete it. This will be your first introduction to the company so it’s down to you to make yourself stand out from the rest.
It’s useful to make a copy or download a few applications so you can practise. Keep copies of your applications for future reference, or to avoid making similar errors if an application is poorly received.
Qualifications
If there’s little space to list all your qualifications, it may be possible to summarise key results. You could refer to a fuller listing on a separate sheet or mark as ‘available upon request’. If in doubt, contact the employer to check they’re happy to with this approach.
Experience
When it comes to job experience, list your jobs in reverse chronological order, most recent one first by job title. If you did not have an official job title, try to think of one that describes your position well. Describe your responsibilities or achievements in your roles, bearing in mind the skills the employer is seeking.
If asked for interests and achievements, focus on key words that demonstrate evidence of your skills and abilities.
Personal statement
Some application forms may require you to complete a personal statement in support of your application. You might be asked to give your reasons for applying and other information relevant to the job specification, including your knowledge, skills and experience.
Your personal statement should relate directly to the specifications of the job or course you are applying for. It is essential to address all the points in the job specification in the order in which they appear – it could be used as a checklist by the person reviewing applications.
Check, double check and double check again
Before sending the form, always ask someone else to check through it as it’s all too easy to miss your own mistakes. We’d also recommend keeping a copy of your application and job advertisement details to review if you get an interview.
The most important thing to remember is that the Careers Service is ready, willing and able to help. We would urge anyone wanting help with job applications or completing a CV to call in to their nearest careers office. We can also offer help to anyone seeking information or making decisions on staying on at school, going to college, seeking employment or changing jobs.
For info you can contact nidirect.gov.uk/careers or call 0300 200 7820.