ctivnan
05/03/08, 10:07 AM
Applying Yourself to the Task
by Bob Dignen
For most people who are looking for a job, getting an interview is the biggest problem. And one of the main reasons why applicants don't get an interview -- apart from not being qualified for the job -- is that their applications are unprofessional and ineffective. In this article, we look in detail at the to key parts of a job application: the curriculum vitae or CV and the covering letter (US: cover letter). We will take the *advertisement on this page as our example, but the same principle applies to most positions.
Before you read on, think about the following questions, which we will be discussing in the article:
What jobs should you apply for?
What makes a good job application?
What structure should you use for your CV?
What information should be provided in a covering letter?
What differences are there if you send your application by e-mail?1. WHAT JOBS SHOULD YOU APPLY FOR?
The starting point of your job application will normally be a job advertisement, often called a "job ad" (US: also "want ad). [Model application -- covering letter (http://english-coffee.com/showthread.php?p=16821#post16821) and CV (attached) -- responding to the advertising]
Read the ad carefully to see what skills and experience the company is looking for. Your personal profile should fit well with that of the advertised position, but remember firms often have to make compromises, as the perfect candidate rarely exists. As in the ad here, companies will often state which skills are "essential," and which are "highly desirable," "desirable," or "preferred."
Note carefully how the firm would like to receive your application: in writing (by post), by e-mail, or through their website. In some cases, you may be asked to fill in an application form. If the position has not been advertised, you can send in a speculative application. However, before sending any application on spec, you should check whether the company you have in mind accepts such applications.
Source: Business Spotlight Magazine, July - September 2005
___________
* advertisement:
AXCOM
Human Resource Manager
London £40,000 - £45,000 per annum
AXCOM is a leading international software company and we are seeking a human resources manager to join our dynamic team.
The successful candidate will report directly to the director of HR and will be responsible for developing our European HR strategy.
You will have at least five years' relevant experience and a proven track record in developing HR strategies. Strong organizational, interpersonal, and computer skills essential. A second European language is highly desirable. Experience of the German and French markets preferred.Send your CV and covering letter in writing, stating your salary expectations to:
Kate Best (Ref 818/03), Human Resources, Axcom, 19 Cumberland Drive, London WC2 2EH
Closing date for applications: 5 August 2005.
Interviews will be held in the week beginning 22 August 2005.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
by Bob Dignen
For most people who are looking for a job, getting an interview is the biggest problem. And one of the main reasons why applicants don't get an interview -- apart from not being qualified for the job -- is that their applications are unprofessional and ineffective. In this article, we look in detail at the to key parts of a job application: the curriculum vitae or CV and the covering letter (US: cover letter). We will take the *advertisement on this page as our example, but the same principle applies to most positions.
Before you read on, think about the following questions, which we will be discussing in the article:
What jobs should you apply for?
What makes a good job application?
What structure should you use for your CV?
What information should be provided in a covering letter?
What differences are there if you send your application by e-mail?1. WHAT JOBS SHOULD YOU APPLY FOR?
The starting point of your job application will normally be a job advertisement, often called a "job ad" (US: also "want ad). [Model application -- covering letter (http://english-coffee.com/showthread.php?p=16821#post16821) and CV (attached) -- responding to the advertising]
Read the ad carefully to see what skills and experience the company is looking for. Your personal profile should fit well with that of the advertised position, but remember firms often have to make compromises, as the perfect candidate rarely exists. As in the ad here, companies will often state which skills are "essential," and which are "highly desirable," "desirable," or "preferred."
Note carefully how the firm would like to receive your application: in writing (by post), by e-mail, or through their website. In some cases, you may be asked to fill in an application form. If the position has not been advertised, you can send in a speculative application. However, before sending any application on spec, you should check whether the company you have in mind accepts such applications.
Source: Business Spotlight Magazine, July - September 2005
___________
* advertisement:
AXCOM
Human Resource Manager
London £40,000 - £45,000 per annum
AXCOM is a leading international software company and we are seeking a human resources manager to join our dynamic team.
The successful candidate will report directly to the director of HR and will be responsible for developing our European HR strategy.
You will have at least five years' relevant experience and a proven track record in developing HR strategies. Strong organizational, interpersonal, and computer skills essential. A second European language is highly desirable. Experience of the German and French markets preferred.Send your CV and covering letter in writing, stating your salary expectations to:
Kate Best (Ref 818/03), Human Resources, Axcom, 19 Cumberland Drive, London WC2 2EH
Closing date for applications: 5 August 2005.
Interviews will be held in the week beginning 22 August 2005.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.