Job application tips
We offer to your attention a few job application tips, which have stood out in our practice:
Preliminary preparation
This might sound cliché, but to be prepared is half the victory when applying for a job. Take a look at your CV and focus on the type of experience which is relevant to the respective position. To what extent do your competencies correspond to what is sought in the job offer? Would your language skills or previous experience in a similar field be of importance in the choice? What is it exactly in your CV that makes you suitable for the job? Have the answers to these questions prepared in your head, so that you won't be intimidated by the situation during the interview and you will show the needed confidence.
After choosing a field or a specific company, study its activity. The employer will appreciate that you took the time to become acquainted with the position you are aiming at, or will assume that it is part of your common knowledge. In both cases, you will make a good impression. You can make use of the opportunities provided by social networks such as LinkedIn but remember to customize your profile in a way that corresponds to your career interests. Do not forget that this is a two-way process – the employer may also take a look at your public presentation on the network.
Take some time to rehearse the interview – when the time comes, this will help you to provide answers in a swift, precise and confident manner. Of course, it is impossible to foresee all of the questions you will be asked, but you can say over your strengths, skills and knowledge.
Documents for application
Very often applicants underestimate the cover letter and have a ready-made text, which they attach to each application. The truth is that in many cases, out of two candidates the employers choose the one that has taken an in-depth approach to their presentation in the cover letter, pointing out those skills which are required for the job and emphasizing the experience relevant to the positon they are applying for. The purpose of the letter is to convince the employer of your serious attitude to the offer.
The CV is a kind of handshake with the employer – the moment of introduction, in which you don't get a second chance to make a good impression. Therefore, take some time and make your CV as useful as possible for you and for the others. Let it be short and clear – this is me, these are my strengths, my knowledge and my experience. Short means no more than 2-3 pages, clear – the steps of your education and your professional path should be presented in a concise chronological way. Spelling errors are, of course, out of the question, and CV samples can be found freely on the Internet.
The standard CV begins with your personal information – name, address, telephone, e-mail, next you add your professional experience from the last position you occupied and the CV ends with details about completed education. You can add information about courses and additional qualifications if they are relevant to the position you are applying for.
According to psychologists, if the photo is not explicitly required by the employer, it is not necessary to include it in the autobiography, as it is a subjective factor in the choice. Yet, you make the final judgement – if you want to always have a photo in the CV, then take one specifically for that purpose.
Invitation to an interview
It is customary to give an answer to the interview invitation within one or two days. If you receive it by phone, it means that this is the preferred communication channel. If it is by e-mail, answer in the same way. It is important that you arrange the interview for a date and time truly convenient for you, and not to assess this post-factum. It creates a bad impression, if you call to reschedule the meeting. And if you still have to do so, contact the company in due time and confirm that you are interested in the job, but you need to schedule a new date and time due to an urgent engagement.
At the interview
The higher the position you are applying for is in the hierarchy the more strictly official you need to be dressed at the job interview. In any case, regardless of the level, you need to be dressed formally, without flashy colors or accessories that may distract the attention from the purpose of your visit. You will never go wrong by wearing a shirt and pants/skirt.
It is very important to be punctual. This will show your future employer whether you will observe the working hours and whether you are disciplined. Take a look at the address beforehand, and even go to the place if you can, so that you will know how much time it takes to get there. See where the public transportation stops or parking lots are situated.
The job interview is, without doubt, a stressful moment, but if you are well prepared, you will minimize the unease. You have submitted a carefully prepared CV, you are dressed appropriately, and you have arrived on time – what is left is to act naturally and calmly, with the appropriate confidence in your voice and gestures without exaggerating. Speak to the point and ask if something is not clear. Taking notes won't be a mistake. Finally, ask when to expect an answer, show your interest and satisfaction with the interview.