Intro
Placing your CV with PeopleBank is one of the most effective ways to actively seek employment. Registering for email alerts means that whenever a suitable position arises you'll be perfectly placed to apply for that job. But exactly how you apply for that job can make all the difference between being left in the cold or asked for interview. Human Resources departments are busy places so a correctly written covering letter and CV that project the right impression can make all the difference.
As with all stages of the recruitment process, there are certain unwritten rules that define a successful application. Here at PeopleBank we have compiled a complete guide to the 'do's and most definitely don'ts' of job applications.
It's good to talk - responding to adverts
Maybe you have seen a vacancy on PeopleBank that really catches your eye, what's the next step? First thing's first, re-read the ad and pick out the key points. If your skills match and the job seems exactly what you are looking for at this stage of your career, then you could be on to a winner. Have a look and see who is managing the position, is it the company itself or are a recruitment company dealing with it? Often, the advert will state who can be contacted for 'further information'. This can be a great way of sounding out the job before you apply. Drop the contact in question an email or give them a call if a telephone number is supplied. PeopleBank Consultants are only too happy to have a chat about the positions they are looking to fill.
Taking this approach has numerous hidden benefits. Firstly if you discuss the position with the recruiting party you may find that the job description was slightly misleading. Maybe there was a lot more to it than the advert suggested or maybe the job title has dressed the position up a little, or even specialist skills are needed and haven't been mentioned. If the salary isn't mentioned in the ad then it might be an idea to ask "what sort of salary does a position like this attract?" The salary could be well below what you are looking for and remember, even dream jobs have to pay the mortgage!
If you find that, for whatever reason that this is the case then you will save yourself a lot of time and effort and the possible disappointment of a rejection letter. On the bright side, by having a conversation with a consultant they will no doubt remember you for future positions.
On the other hand if everything sounds suitable so far, the consultant will discuss the type of person they are looking for, the ideal skills, attitude and personality that the ideal candidate will have. If you feel that you meet these requirements be sure to mention them in your application! By having a chat and getting to understand your requirements, your CV is more likely to end up in the right pile.
Something to remember is that when a consultant states how they would like to be contacted, or the best time to contact them, this is often gospel. Telephoning when they have requested an email might not be the best idea!
Your application
Letters of application can be a tricky business and first impressions count! The layout and tone of such a letter follows a certain format and once you've got the hang of writing them, it will be a doddle.
Part one - the introduction
In this section you need to mention when and where you heard about the position. This part is quite formal as it helps to identify exactly what you are applying for.
For example;
Part two - why the job is for you
A short paragraph detailing your suitability to the role is important. Read the advertisement and double check the selection criteria. In this section note important achievements, skills and try and suggest how excited you are about the position (within reason, you don't want to scare them!)
For example;
I believe I am ideally suited to this position as I have five years Sales Management experience with a leading communications company. Whilst working in this role I have increased team revenue by 75% which has led to the hiring of additional staff.
I believe that both my skills and personal attributes match the requirements of this role and that I would be able to effectively contribute to the team and the organisation.
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Part three - signing off
The final part of your letter should be short, contain your contact details and be optimistic.
For example;
I have attached my CV for your consideration. I can be contacted on 020- 8888-6666 during work hours and 020 8888-5555 at all other times. I look forward to discussing my application with you at your earliest convenience.
Kind regards
A. Candidate
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So there we have it. If you follow this guide to applying for jobs then you stand a great chance of bagging that dream job!
Good luck.
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