The famous tale goes, make some small changes and see some bug results. Start to make some small changes to your job application that will have a MAJOR impact on how successful you are. Even if they are minor details, it is easy to overlook them when you are in the last stretch and have been stressing over something for a while. Here is our short checklist of questions that you should consider before hitting that ‘Submit’ button!
1. Have you triple-checked your spelling and grammar?
Did you check spelling and grammar multiple times? Or better yet, has someone else reviewed it? This is VERY significant. Employers frequently receive a big number of applications, so when they make their first roundup, they are looking for reasons to reject you from the process rather than reasons to hire you. Whether you are an internal or external candidate, your familiarity with the company is not an excuse for being careless on an application. Avoid using any slang, language, or acronyms. Even better, you can run it through Grammarly (yes, there is an app for that).
2. Have you researched the organisation?
It's critical to demonstrate in your cover letter that you are aware of their mission, goals, and ways in which you can support them. Having a knowledge of what they do in the industry means you care about their cause.
3. Have you found out who to address your cover letter to?
"Dear Sir/Madam" might be the standard, but it can also indicate that you haven't done your homework. A name is a great addition. At the very least, make sure you get their address right.
4. Have you condensed your CV to two pages (three pages at the maximum)?
Generally speaking, long CVs are not a good idea. Employers frequently scan through a large number of applications and they do not have a lot of time to read an essay, not matter how good it is. Make sure to highlight what’s relevant to the company you are applying for. Format your CV according to what works for your job hunt. It could be a Functional CV, Chronological CV, Combined CV or a Creative CV.
5. Have you addressed everything they mentioned in the job ad/description and related your experience to it?
Craft your application materials for the specific role. This demonstrates your understanding of their needs and how you can meet them, as well as ensuring that you cover all the topics they want to know about. There is no such a thing as a generic cover letter. So you'll need to customise it for each application you submit. While you can use a few snippets for each letter, it's ideal to start from scratch so you can concentrate on your audience and market your skills. The same is true of your CV. Make an effort to include achievements that seem pertinent to the job and will grab the hiring manager's attention.
6. Do your referees know you are looking for a job?
Have you asked them to be a referee for you? Asking your referees if they are willing to serve as your referees is the decent thing to do, plus it’s professional. Additionally, it gives them more time to prepare on how to vouch for you before they receive the email.
7. Is your email address appropriate?
skatergirl2010@yahoo.com probably doesn't look too professional. Even though this is the account you may use frequently, you might create a new one using your real name and forward emails to it so you don't miss them. Gmail is said to be a good server for employment queries.
8. Are you on LinkedIn?
If you are, update your latest job information on LinkedIn and try to get an endorsement or two from people. It's time to shake off the cobwebs gathering on your LinkedIn profile. Make sure you’ve detailed your responsibilities and accomplishments at previous positions, and that all of your information is accurate and up to date.If not, set a profile up. If you were looking to hire people and you had the internet at your fingertips, where would you look for a background check?
9. Have you applied the way they asked you to?
Read the entire job posting and make sure you are submitting it in the format they want. Did you receive precise instructions on how to name your resume and other application materials? Download and complete the application form if it is available on their website. Did the job description specify a timeframe for when you should expect a response or when you can follow up? Be alert for any specific instructions at all times. Provide thoughtful and thorough responses because hiring managers want to whittle down the applicant pool by asking questions that are detail-oriented.
10. Lastly, did you attach your CV and cover letter to your email?
Yes, seems obvious, but in the heat of the moment, think before you hit submit. Don’t forget to add a (digital signature) on your cover letter. It is also highly recommended to create a PDF of your CV and cover letter to protect your lovely fonts and formatting.
We hope this list will help you. You only get one chance to apply for a job and present your best self. Before clicking the submit button, carefully review your application to be sure you've followed all of the instructions in the job description.
Good luck! You got this!
Fempire Finance