Written For: Knoji
Job
hunters, keep this in mind: your application is your first contact with the
prospective employer. It is your opportunity to create the right impression.
The person who will be reading your application will look for competence,
confidence, enthusiasm and courtesy. If you keep it clear, relevant, concise
and bright, you can increase the chances of a favorable response to your
application through careful wording and by setting it out thoughtfully.
The first
rule is to always follow the instructions given in the advertisement. Supply
all the information and papers requested. Secondly, find out as much as
possible about the work involved and also about the company you are applying
to.
In most
cases, your initial application will consist of two elements: a covering
letter, in which you state why you are writing, and a curriculum vitae (also
known as a résumé), giving details of your education, training, and relevant
work experience. Keep the covering letter short and to the point. You can
elaborate more in your résumé.
Remember
to sell yourself when applying for a job. Emphasize your strong points: your
achievements, abilities, and potential, your interest in and suitability for
the job. On the other hand, don’t try to conceal any obvious shortcomings, such
as lack of experience or qualifications. Own up to these disadvantages, but
counterbalance them by stressing your adaptability and eagerness to learn.
Always
type your curriculum vitae. It should look welcoming to the reader. Make it
clear and neatly laid out. Importantly, make sure that the spelling, grammar
and punctuation are correct. Start off with your work experience. List the jobs
you have held and include a brief description of what the job entailed. It may
be wise to state the reason why you left your previous jobs, especially if you
did not hold them for long. It would be wiser though, not to mention that you
have been fired.
Next, give personal details such as your education, degrees,
achievements, when and where you were educated. List too any other relevant
skills and qualifications like knowledge of other languages and industrial or
office skills. As for other personal details, you do not have to mention
whether you are married or have children. But do specify your age or date of
birth.
For those who are applying for a first job, the employer cannot
expect much in the way of work experience – he or she will look for ability,
enthusiasm and readiness to learn. So think about any extra-curricular
activities or previous part-time work you have engaged in while in school.
Potential employers will be more impressed if you have shown initiative.