By Kenechi Eziefula
1. Apply early
The earlier you apply, the earlier your application is seen, and the earlier you can apply for another role. Having your CV and covering letter at, or near, the top of the pile is a huge bonus, as employers receive thousands of applications and many become forgettable. Additionally, it shows that you were very pro-active in applying for the role.
2. Make a phone call if possible
When you call a prospective employer, you put a voice and a personality to your application. When previously, your application may have previously been just one of hundreds, now your employer knows to specifically look out for your CV. It also displays your confidence on the phone, alongside high desire for the job and willingness to follow up your application.
3. Tailor your covering letter to the person specification
When applying for several jobs, it is easy use a template CV or Covering Letter that you can send to many employers. However your chances will be immensely improved if you read the person specification, and use the points they are looking for as paragraph titles. Then, explain how you meet those specifications, along with examples. Employers are looking for applicants who meet their criteria and make it easy for that to be seen.
4. Check grammar and spelling
Ensuring that your application is easy to ready will take it a long way. Correct spelling, grammar and short, well structured paragraphs will ensure your CV is looked at longer than others. It’s as simple as that.
5. Include a recommendation from a previous employer, professor or teacher
Where possible, ask a person you trust, a friendly teacher or a kind former employer to write a person recommendation and a job recommendation for your to include on your social media profiles. Employers regularly search for applicants internet presence, including sites like LinkedIn. These recommendations go a long way, as they are a vote of confidence in your abilities. They are treated very seriously, and having a recommendation or two transform the way you are seen, and become the edge that makes you a cut above the rest.
