What’s your job application strategy?

Written by Kathryn Napier

What’s your on-line job application strategy? Did you even know you had one?

One of the easiest traps people fall into when searching for a new job is to apply for absolutely everything that comes up in their online job search. Depending on your location, chosen field and work-type, this could be anything from a few jobs per week to almost one hundred. And we’re all busy, so if you’re at the higher end of this scale, chances are you’re simply flicking off generic resumes and cover letters. At majer, we see these types of applications all the time and I can honestly say they rarely result in an interview. There are other ways for you to stand out from other applicants at this stage of the recruitment process. So, my initial advice to you is STOP the generic application now and START being selective. Spend the same amount of time applying for jobs, but do it smarter by submitting fewer applications of a higher quality.

Take the time to fully understand a job advertisement and consider the following:

1. Do you have the right skills/experience/education?

If not, can you gauge from the advertisement whether the employer is flexible around this? If not, don’t waste your time – spend it applying for a more suitable role instead.

2. Salary Requirements

If salary is mentioned, does it fit with your requirements? Would you be prepared to take a decrease in salary to gain different experience?

3. Work Type

Try considering all work-types because you may be up against fewer applicants. And don’t be put off by temporary or contract roles, as they often turn in to permanent positions for the right person.

Remember…be selective and use the same amount of time to have a greater chance at being selected for interview. In future articles, we will talk about other ways to make the most of your initial job applications…stay in touch!

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