Get a Job, Get a Career
Applying for Jobs
The job application process is the first step to landing the job you desire. Several key components make an application appealing to employers. A great way to start the application process is to develop a resume.
A résumé will include your basic contact information as well as your educational and occupational history. Your skills and references should be listed, as well as volunteer activity and awards if relevant to the position you are seeking.
A simple format is the best option as it increases an applicant’s chance of being noticed and converts easily if the employer chooses to scan the resume onto file and search for keywords.
Some keywords or action words earn attention for your resume, ensuring that you will be noticed. You will want to use words that stand out and convey a sense of success. Words such as confident, proficient and outstanding.
You will also want to list any skills pertinent to the job for which you are applying. Do not forget to list any software programs you are familiar with as well as typing skills and any other distinguishing abilities.
Your employment history should include the name, supervisor and contact information of previous employers. A job description should o be listed, citing duties and accomplishments that you were responsible for while employed with this organization. It is best no to leave any time gaps when it comes to your employment history; this is a big red flag for employers.
References should be included, listing at least two professional and two personal references. Be sure to notify the people you have used as references, informing them that you have done so.
If you have any samples of work that you have completed, include this with your resume. This is especially helpful if you are applying for a position where you will be producing documents or graphics.
Occasionally a photograph of yourself will be requested as a part of the application process. Make sure it is a good one! A snapshot of yourself taken by a photographer friend is generally adequate, but you should strongly consider having it enhanced by a photo retouching service to minimize the slight facial flaws that we all possess. A low-cost outfit that does quality work is 399retouch.com.
Now that you have all of your information gathered, it would be much easier to complete an application if necessary.
Do not forget the most important aspect of developing a resume, distributing it. Make sure to get it out to as many people as possible. Even if there is not a position that you qualify for, there is a chance that they could have another opening that would be ideal for someone with your experience.
When submitting resumes, include a cover letter addressed to the hiring manager. The cover letter should explain your goal and motive for applying for a job with the company at hand. It should also summarize why you are the perfect candidate and include your salary requirements and availability date.
Another important step in the application process is the last, the follow-up. About a week after you submit your resume, call or write to confirm that it was received and reviewed. This step often opens a dialogue between the employer and potential employees that would not necessary take place if the follow- up was not completed.
Be sure to thank the contact for their time and consideration of your resume. Often this is the pivotal factor in getting an interview.