Tips for writing a good application

You're applying for a job but don't know where to start or how to change the way you're doing things that just isn't getting you noticed. Don't worry - the application is a process that you can take into your own hands and control. Follow these tips to increase your chances of landing an interview.

1. Take your time

Rushed applications that are not tailored to your personality are immediately noticed by employers and can give the impression that you are not putting effort into the position. It makes more sense to submit five tailored, specific, well-thought-out applications that will get noticed by employers than ten general applications that are significantly less likely to get noticed. Taking your time will also allow you to double-check details like the name of the company and the name of the person you're contacting, making sure you catch any spelling or grammatical errors that you might have otherwise missed. Make sure your LinkedIn profile, if you have one, matches the experience you're highlighting.

2. Speak their language

Use our job ad glossary to make sure you know what the employer is asking for and respond to it so that the person reading the ad can clearly see how your skills and experience match. There are certain words and phrases that describe the ideal candidate that you should refer to in your application.

3. Sell yourself

Write your application in such a way that the focus is on the positive effects of your daily work. Verbs like “transformed,” “delivered,” “produced,” and “organized” help make your activity and its impact clear. Here you will find a sample CV with detailed tips.

4. Keep it relevant

Even if you want to list every little experience, it's important to catch the employer's attention, which means you should focus on skills and experience that are relevant to the job. Anything in your application that does not meet the requirements stated in the advertisement should either be left out or only mentioned briefly at the end of the application. When you're done, check the length. HR managers read a lot of applications, so you should use the length of the text sparingly. If you are unsure how to shorten your application, ask someone you trust for help.

5. Include a cover letter

A cover letter is a document that you submit along with your resume. It introduces you to the employer and gives you the opportunity to speak to them directly and emphasize your enthusiasm for the company and the position. If you have the opportunity to submit a cover letter, you should do so (even if it's not mandatory) as it increases your chances of getting noticed. Read more about cover letters here.

Your application is the perfect opportunity to showcase yourself, so take advantage of it. You can get tips on how to prepare your application from the application experts at “ The application writers “.