It can be tempting to create a draft job application and send it in – as is – to all job adverts you see on job boards, but the repercussions of that quick and careless application can be widespread. The importance of a properly put-together job application is vastly underrated.
First impressions always last, and you definitely want your application to fall into the better category when it’s make-or-break time, and the decision has to be made between shortlisted candidates and CV’s that get chucked in the bin.
Did you know that some CV’s get thrown out because they resemble bibliographies? So, just how much detail about yourself should you be sharing when applying for a job? Which documents need to accompany your CV when applying for a vacant position? Adzuna shares some insights!
Job application checklist
Here’s what to include in your application:
Your CV
Forgetting to attach your CV to an email job application seems silly, but it happens all the time. There’s nothing that can leave your “excellent eye for detail” disputed quite like this can. Title your CV appropriately as well, titling it something like John Doe applying for Sales Manager at XYZ Holdings.
Cover letter
Not all companies request a cover letter to accompany a job application. But there are some companies who want and need to see this with all serious applicants for vacant positions. In your cover letter’s subject line, remember to add your name and surname, which position you’re applying for, and at which company you’re applying for a job. If the job advertisement has a specific reference number that should be used in applications, use that instead. Prospective employers are counting on the fact that serious applicants will adhere to special instructions, and failing to do so could easily see your application being chucked in the bin.
A sample portfolio (if applicable)
Some companies want to see a portfolio of previous work that a candidate has done. Depending on the industry you’re in, there might be various sizes and formats with which the portfolio has to be created. And there might also be a few different samples you’ll need to submit. Remember that if you’re required to submit a portfolio, quality almost always trumps quality, so only include the samples of work that you’re most proud of.
Here’s what not to send along with your job application:
Proof of qualifications
Unless the recruiter has any reason to suspect that you might be lying on your CV, they have enough proof of your educational background, and copies of your qualifications will only be requested if and when you’re shortlisted for the position.
Academic results
Unless you’re applying for your first job, it’s not necessary to include your matric or university marks in your CV. Sure, recruiters welcome the idea of matriculants attaching their reports to their CV’s, but if you’ve been in the workforce for a year or longer, your academic results aren’t relevant anymore.
References from previous employers
Clients, mentors, and former employers might have had something to say about you and your abilities. But you do not have to include it in your CV. This information can be added to your portfolio, as long as it is presented in a neat and attractive manner.
Final Thoughts
Applying for a job?, Keep in mind that the most important thing to do is to follow the ad’s specifics down to a Tee. You can include and attach all the documents in the world. But not adhering to an HR manager or recruiter’s specific requests can leave your CV overlooked because you neglected to follow the simple instructions.