Having spent the better part of the week sorting through literally hundreds of job applications, I feel compelled to share some quick hints for job seekers.
1. First of all, unless you are sending your application via SMS, use your words, people. Example of what not to do: “i want 2 apply 4 the position of…” . What is up with the continual use of “i” and “im” instead of “I” and “I’m” in resumes and cover letters? You are selling yourself to a potential employer, not chatting with friends on FaceBook.
2. For goodness sake, if you don’t have a decent hotmail address without an R-Rated username, get one now. Applications from emails like sexyhotbunnybabe258@gmail or psycho-axe-killer@msn just don’t set a professional tone. (Note: these are not actual addreses we received applications from, merely an example of the type of email address).
3. If you say you’ve attached your resume, remember to attach it.
4. Spell check, spell check and then SPELL CHECK again! Common errors in the I-didn’t bother-to spell-check basket included mentions of “exellent” skills in “communcation”, work “refrences” and “writting” letters. When you do spell-check, be sure the language settings are set for Australia. Having said that, don’t just rely on the spell-checker. Re-read several times yourself before submitting.
5. Don’t start out your cover letter with negatives such as “I don’t have any experience in…” or “I can’t work this day or that day…” Start with the positive if you want someone to read any further. Be excited about what you can bring to the table.
6. Sending a job application from your current work email address during business hours might not be the best idea. Potential employers might wonder if you are applying for a new job on your bosses time?
7. If you’re going to use common industry terms be sure you a) know what it means to use in context and b) can spell it. Common errors include references to “companys” ”debitors” “acounting” and “mortgatge”.
8. Don’t go nuts with the formatting! It’s great to stand out and do something a little different but try not to splatter your resume with 7 different colours, 14 alternative fonts and random font-size changes.
9. Try to address the position criteria. If you’re looking to change professions or are just starting out, at least give some indictation why you want to apply or think you’ll be suitable.
10. If you are using a template to create your resume, be sure to fill in all the fields or delete those areas you are not using. Being employed from [insert date] with [insert employer] isn’t very informative.
I said 10 tips but I can think of a few more are worth noting……
11. If you are actually given the name of the person to address your application to, it’s better to use their name instead of “To Whom it May Concern” or “Dear Sir/Madam”.
12. Potential employers WILL Google you and check your online profiles. What impression is Google going to give about you?
13. Don’t simply send a sentence with your name saying you want the job with a mobile number to call you on. If 400 others actually took the time to attach a resume and/or cover letter providing some details about themselves, the chance of any employer ringing to request these details from you is pretty slim.
14. Finally, do your homework. The job market is a competive place. You can gain an instant advantage by finding a bit out about the organisation (easily enough these days… just visit their website) and using this information to create a targeted pitch.
Article by Christie Lewis
Christie is Practice Manager at Alan Lewis Accountants . Besides accounting, her passion is for all things small business (and blogging, of course). You can contact Christie directly at christie@lewistaxation.com.au.
Christie has written 799 awesome articles for us at Alan Lewis Accountants – BLOG
Twitter: @christielewis
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