How to Apply for a Job

Decide on the type of job you want. To enhance the effectiveness of your job search, consider your needs and desires in a role. You can narrow your choices by thinking about the following:

• Consider the industry. Whether you're switching to a new field or making a lateral move, find a job that challenges you while providing personal fulfillment. Knowing what you don’t want to do is just as crucial as knowing what you do want to pursue.
• Think about the skills required for a specific position. Feeling that your skills are being utilized and recognized is key to job satisfaction. When you understand which skills you need to apply and which ones you can further develop, it will be easier to pinpoint a worthwhile job.
• Consider salary and benefits. Always be honest and realistic about your entitlements. If you require health insurance or a specific income each month, focus on jobs that can meet those needs.

Research. Before sending out a large number of job applications and cover letters, take the time to research the company you're applying to.

• Learn about the company’s culture and values by reading their mission statement. This information can be helpful when writing your cover letter and during the interview process.
• Look into the company’s new products or services. This information is usually found in the “news” section and may also include details on the company’s community engagement.
• Check the careers or recruitment section on the company’s website to learn about open positions. You may find more opportunities in different locations or departments.

Create your resume. Even if the job you’re applying for doesn’t require a traditional resume, it’s still a good idea to have an up-to-date personal profile. A resume not only summarizes your education and work experience but also highlights specific projects you've worked on or awards you've earned. The information you should include in your resume includes:

• Your current contact information, including your full name, phone number, home address, and email address.
• Your educational background. List the schools you’ve attended (starting with the most recent), courses you’ve taken, and the degrees you’ve obtained. You can also include any additional programs or certifications.
• Your work experience in recent years. An unwritten rule is: every 10 years of experience should be summarized in one page. Be sure to specify the dates of employment, company names, job titles, and a brief description of your responsibilities.
• Relevant skills. This is your chance to list the skills you’ve developed over the years. Include proficiency in office equipment, operating systems, software (like Microsoft Office Suite or Adobe Creative Suite), typing speed, database experience, and other relevant skills.

Contact the recruiter to inquire about the application process. You may be transferred to the HR manager. If they are hiring, they might invite you to fill out an application or send your resume and cover letter through mail or email. Make sure to note down their name and contact details for future reference.

Write a cover letter if necessary. Make sure the letter is tailored to the company and the specific position. If possible, address it to a specific person. This will show that you’ve taken the time to research the company, rather than just sending out mass emails to recruiters. You can cover topics such as:

• Does the company’s culture and mission align with your values?
• How your knowledge and experience make you a great fit for this role and the company.
• Your expectations from the role and the company.
• Any unique skills you can bring to the job.
• What excites you most about this position.

Ask for feedback. Have friends or family review your resume and cover letter to spot any spelling mistakes. They can also help identify missing or redundant information.

• If possible, seek advice from someone in the same field you’re applying to. Speaking with a recruiter or HR manager can also be beneficial, as they know what qualities and qualifications they are looking for in candidates.

List your references. Although you might not need to provide a list of references immediately, it’s wise to ask people early if they would be willing to act as your reference for the job.

• Make sure to have at least three references. At least two of them should have worked with you and can speak to your job performance.
• Ensure that you have up-to-date contact details for each reference, including their mailing address, email, phone number, job title, and current employer.

Apply for the job. Once your resume and cover letter are polished, it’s time to submit your application. There are three common ways to submit an application:

• In-person submission. Bring a portfolio with all the required documents to the hiring company. It’s a good idea to ask in advance about the best time to drop off your documents. When you arrive, ask to speak with the HR manager and hand your resume directly to them. This makes a lasting impression. Dress professionally and present yourself well.
• Online submission. This method varies. Some companies require you to fill out specific fields, while others may ask for your resume and cover letter in PDF format. Some companies may ask you to email your documents to their HR department. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully—if they ask for your resume in the body of the email, do not attach a file.
• Mail submission. If requested, address the envelope to the recruiter or HR manager. Ensure that you’ve paid the correct postage for the weight of your application package.

Follow-up after submitting your application. Checking the status of your application after submitting it shows your interest in the role and ensures that your application has reached the right person. Calling immediately may come off as demanding and intrusive. Here are some tips for reaching out:

• Be aware of the application deadline for the job. Most online listings provide an application deadline. Calling before this date may make you seem overly eager and impatient.
• If no deadline is provided, it’s best to follow up a week after submitting your application.
• When calling or emailing the recruiter or HR manager, maintain a friendly tone. Avoid making demands such as “I haven’t heard back from anyone.” Instead, you can ask, “Has a decision been made yet?” or “Could you provide me with a timeline for the hiring process?” Politely ask if you can follow up after a week if there’s no response; this shows initiative without being pushy.

Ensure your online presence is spotless. Employers often search for information about you online, and any negative content they find could hurt your chances of landing the job.

When invited to an interview, dress appropriately for the position you’re applying for. Wearing clothes that make you feel comfortable and confident will positively influence how you present yourself during the interview.

Be punctual. Arrive 10-15 minutes early for your interview to avoid traffic or transportation issues. You’ll also have a few minutes to mentally prepare and review any notes you’ve brought along.

Show enthusiasm and eagerness during the interview. Your positivity and knowledge about the job will demonstrate that you’ve done your homework, and this will earn you extra points.

Use notes. Ask the interviewer if it’s okay to take notes. Having a notebook can be a lifesaver, allowing you to jot down achievements and strengths that highlight your abilities.

Follow proper etiquette. Sending a thank-you note after an interview is a great way to show a positive attitude while leaving a lasting impression. Keep it concise and mention key takeaways from the interview.

• Always be honest when filling out your job application form.
• Make sure to thank the employer for their time and consideration.
• If you’re rejected, before thanking the interviewer, ask what you could improve on and whether there are similar opportunities elsewhere.
• If you get an interview, send a thank-you letter afterward.