Winning Job Applications

Winning Job Applications

Agenda

Resumes Letters Online applications What employers look for How to make your application shine The recruitment process Questions

Resumes

Do:• Be punchy• Separate previous experience into “Responsibilities” and “Achievements” –

provide real, quantifiable examples (value saved, % improvement etc)• Provide examples of extra-curricular activities• Make sure your strengths shine• Use simple language• Leave white space

Do not:• Exaggerate, lie• Omit details• Criticise past employers or work colleagues.

LESS IS MORE

• You must have one. You never know what the employer is looking for.

• Demonstrate an understanding of the job/organisation

• Outline your strengths

• Ensure it is tailored

• Simple language, easy to read

Cover Letters

Online Applications

• Do not under-estimate their importance

• Carefully prepare your responses. Re-write them, and write them again.

• Get to the point

• What makes mine different from the other 10000?

• Do your research - read website/press. Know which area of the business you want to be in

Online Applications

• Check your spelling. Check your grammar.

• Get the company name right – it does happen

• Spend at least 45 minutes on application form

• Largest screening occurs on the basis of application forms

• A person – not just a set of results

• Well rounded– Community Involvement

• Sports Clubs• Theatre Groups• Volunteer Work

– Leadership Experience– Life Experience

• Part time work• Travel

• Excellent results

• Qualities – problem solvers, team players, resilient, results driven,good communicators

What employers look for

Make your application shine

• Clear, simple answers

• Well rounded candidate is evident

• No errors

• Well structured resume

The recruitment process

Online application

Psychometric Testing

Assessment Centres

Interview

Offers

Questions