There are many things to remember when you want to write an application that catches people’s interest and doesn’t go to the bottom of the pile. But never fear, it doesn’t have to be as hard as all that. We have gathered together our eight best tips for writing a good, eye-catching application which you are sure will be read.
1. It pays off to be thorough
Companies often have a long list of ‘must-haves’ and ‘nice-to-haves’ for a new employee. So start by reading the job ad carefully – both what it says and what may be between the lines.
Think about the skills you bring to the table and why you are the right person for the job. You should always acquaint yourself with the company’s specific needs and issues, so you can describe how you can meet them.
2. You can always ask questions – if you have something to ask about
In some cases, it may be a good idea to phone the company and ask to know more about the job. Remember to prepare a few good and relevant questions before you call, so you are ready to ask penetrating and well thought-out questions and get some good answers that you can use in your application.
3. Use episodes from real life
When you use concrete examples from your work or private life, you show a future employer who you are and that you have the skills they are looking for. So by all means use examples from your previous jobs, leisure interests or education.
4. Drop the clichés and be creative
It is much nicer and more helpful to the recipient to read an application where someone has thought about their writing style. Drop the tedious clichés and find alternative ways of expressing yourself. For example, what does it mean to say you can “have a lot on your plate”? It could mean that you are good at handling several tasks at the same time, and that you get them all done without missing important deadlines.
5. A standard application, will give you a standard rejection
The company you are applying for a job with should feel that you are talking specifically to them. It is easy to see when you choose to send a standard application which could have been sent to just anyone. They will see through you faster than you can say “but...”. So take pains to show that you have made an active choice in applying for a job specifically with them.
6. Less is more
An employer often has to read through a big pile of applications and CVs. So try to keep your applications short and to the point. It is a good idea to use headings that catch the reader’s eye, and short paragraphs that say something relevant about you in relation to the job.
As a rule of thumb, your application should not exceed one A4 page. But it could be shorter.
7. Remebmer to proofraed what you have writen
Of course you are keen to send off your application the moment you finish writing it. But make sure you read it through once more – better safe than sorry. You could also get a friend or a family member to read through both the job ad and your application, to be sure you have covered the most important points and there are no irritating typos and spelling mistakes.
8. A strong overall impression
When your application and your CV match each other graphically, they will leave a smart overall impression of you as an employee. You don’t need to be a whizz with InDesign and graphic design, but you will do well to use the same font and layout. For example, if you use a colour in your CV, make sure the same colour appears in your application.
A well-structured application
A good structure makes it easier for the reader to follow the flow of the application and ensures that you don’t leave anything important out.
The heading is the first thing that catches the eye when anyone reads your application. So take care to find an arresting and descriptive heading.
Example: “Energetic and IT-savvy customer consultant” or “Committed forklift driver with x years’ experience”.
The first lines of your application help to set the scene. Here you should focus on describing what you can bring to the job/company, and what drives you.
Concentrate on what is relevant to the particular job.
The body text is where you can expand on the relevant skills and expertise that make you right for the job. Use concrete examples from real life, as describe in the guide above.
Wrap up your application by highlighting your personal strengths, so your potential employer can see how you would fit into the team and/or the organisation on a social level.
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