1. Spend time on it.
When applying for a job, make sure to spend some time creating and making your application. Take your time, think through the questions presented, and do your homework in advance. As a recruiter, it is easy to see which applicants have spent quality time on their applications and those who filled out and submitted their applications quickly. All the time you set aside to put into your applications makes a difference and showcases that you are genuinely interested in the role and passionate about the work on offer. Consider working on job applications like a short Uni assignment, the more work and research you put in, the better the outcomes. Make sure your answers are detailed and well-thought-out and answer the questions presented.
2. Make it authentic and meaningful
Following on from the first point, recruiters read through hundreds if not thousands of applications every day. Companies even have bots to screen out applications before a person even sees them! Make sure yours isn't one to be screened out. While you might be tempted to use generic words to describe your work ethic, spend some more time developing what your work ethic entails and how you have implemented that in your work. Employers don't just want to know that you are a "Team-player" or a "determined" worker. They want to know the HOW. How do you work as a team player? What actions did you take? How are you a determined worker? What challenges have you faced, and how did you approach them? Think beyond the generic "labels" and find statements and personal experiences that sum you and your work ethic up for employers.
3. Aesthetics are everything
Another way to make your application stand out is to make it look different to all rest. Once you've got all the information in your covering letter and CV, see how you can adjust the styles, layout and knowledge in a more eye-catching way. Keep it relevant to the role you are applying for, and see what adjustments you can make to make your application more visually appealing. When a recruiter sees your application, you want them to be curious and read more about you. Do some research and play around with styles until you find your best fit. Check with your friends and family and see if your messaging and tone align well with the role you are applying for. Keep in mind that all your information should be readable, make sense, and is directly applicable to the position.
4. Utilise all your experiences
Entering the workforce, you might not have much relevant work experience or any work experience at all. If you have a few gaps in your CV, consider sharing more details about the other roles and responsibilities you have taken on. If you are active in different sports groups or clubs, do some volunteering, or have active hobbies and side-projects, this can be valuable in your job application. Showcasing and highlighting all of your skills, show the type of person you are and highlight your personality. When employers recruit new team members, they are also looking for people that are an excellent cultural fit for their existing team. Highlighting your extra circular experiences can make your application stand out and put you one step closer to securing that role.
5. Proofread!
Like Uni assignments, it's essential to check and proofread your job applications before submitting them. Check that all your details are correct, there are no spelling errors, and all the formatting and layouts are clear and consistent to read and understand. If there are specific questions that you have to answer, make sure you have addressed all the points and that your answers are concise and insightful.
Proofreading and making these corrections are critical and can be the difference between getting an interview and not. The work produced in your job application reflects and portrays your personality and work ethic. So, present your best self and showcase all your skills and strengths. Your first impression should be your best impression!
Uni Grads, it's time to stand out, get noticed, and get hired! Use these five tips to improve your job application and put your best foot forward. Make your job application look good and sound good, and you'll be well on your way to making a lasting first impression. Try out some of these ideas, level up your job applications, and you'll be getting a call-back in no time!