A job application is usually sent with the resume when applying for a job. The resume contains all the quantitative information of the academics and work-related achievements. However, the Job application is meant to persuade the hiring manager as to why you, specifically, deserve to get the job above every other candidate. In essence, this is a sales pitch to the company.
The primary focus of the hiring manager is to scan the job application and determine if the candidate is a good fit. Studies suggest that this process stops at the end of the introduction. If you haven’t impressed by then, you are gone. Needless to say, writing an effective job application is challenging, but knowing a few tips can help you significantly. So, how to write an application for a job?
Start the application for a job by first noting the key requirements of the position you’re applying for. This will help you visualize what is required of you, and more importantly, how can you help the organization achieve its goals. Once you start writing be sure to mention all the relevant qualifications, skills, and experience to highlight your expertise. If you take the time to check the recommended structure, look at a couple of examples, and put in the work, you’ll end up with a good looking application.
Here is the best package to know how to write the best job application. It covers all the little the details and offers tips to make your job application stand out from the crowd.
Mark Key starting Points
A well-written introduction is a key to an effective job application. So, give the job ad a thorough reading and know what the employer needs before you put pen on the paper (or fingers on the keyboard, whichever you fancy).
Start with a brief paragraph that outlines your value to the company. Don’t brag or be pushy, but also be aware of your qualification, skills, and experience, and sell yourself as a valuable asset. Understand that the hiring manager only looks at every application for about 5 seconds. You NEED to capture their attention. If you are not Charles Dickens or Mark Twain, let your skills do the talking.
Don’t bullet point anything. Write in full paragraphs. Every paragraph ought to be dedicated to a single topic. It is always better to start with factual information than empty phrases and platitudes.
Additionally, write very precisely and concisely. Don’t try to overwrite, don’t write novels, or essays about your summer jobs. Be precise and on point. Know what the company needs, and make them believe you’re it.
Effective Writing Guidelines For a Job Application
Employers and interviewers always have high expectations from job applications. So, here are a few writing guidelines that you must follow.
Length of Job application Content
The length of your job application must not be more than one page. Be mindful, you need to put your entire life’s work into a single sheet of paper. That is not easy to do, so focus on the big things. Writing a lengthy application will only get you in the recycle bin faster. Consider the fact that hiring managers have to look over hundreds of applications. Long applications may appear as pleading whereas employers prefer appealing.
Format
The format is an essential thing to focus on as it is crucial for that first glance. A suitable format is as follow,
Font
Choose any of the three, Times New Roman, Calibri, or Arial, and keep the font size between 10 to 12. It is a professional style that will never let you down.
Space and Margins
Make it single-spaced with 6 inch space between the paragraphs. The margins must be 1″ across the entire document.
Header and footer
Do not include a header or a footer. Be mindful to follow professional writing standards when addressing the letter. Upper left corner, name, title, address, date. Start the application with Dear Mr./Mrs. (name).
Rules for Writing Job Application Sections:
To make your job application effective, be very careful with the rules for each section. Some hiring managers see faults in style as a clear sign you’re not that interested and might reject any application outright.
Here is a list that you must follow,
Subject
The subject must not exceed a single line. It would be best if you chose catchy and precise words to make the subject relevant and simple.
It must include the job you are applying for and the name of the company.
Salutation
It would be a bonus if you knew the employer’s name to address them directly in the salutation. It will make a strong impression on the employer that how much inclined you are towards this employment.
If you don’t know the name, then address them by using Sir or Madam/Mr. or Mrs.
Main Body
The main body of the application must comprise three parts, the introduction, the body, and the conclusion. Write one paragraph in each section.
First Paragraph
In the first paragraph, give reference to the job you are applying for and add the information about how you reached this advertisement. If you get it through a reference, then mention the name of the person.
Start listing down your qualification, experience, and skills most relevant to the job and mentioning additional information about why you are fit for this job. Emphasis should be on your fit and value to the organization.
Second Paragraph
In this part, write in detail. Mention all your skills, achievements, and hobbies. Make sure you explain everything well, and there must be no confusion in the employer’s mind while reading.
Don’t copy-paste your CV here; try to mention different things which make your application attractive and impressive. You can list down your interests, too, even if they are not relevant to the job role. It will give an insight into your personality and might attract the employer.
Third Paragraph
It is the last or closing paragraph. Sum up all your ideas mentioned in the first two paragraphs. Write about how much you are enthusiastic about discussing the further details of the job.
In the end, write a complimentary note and mention your contact details with your full name below. Do mention your email and make sure your email must be professional that includes your real name.
Some Additional Tips to Make the Job Application More Accurate:
Here are a few extra tips to make your job application more effective,
Use Keywords
Using keywords makes your application very effective. It gives the impression of how much effort you put into writing it. You can search for the keywords in the job description, try to emphasize them throughout your application but make sure you don’t stuff it. Use the keywords where they fit the best.
Proofread
Proofreading is a vital step in writing a job application. Try to do it two or three times, use good vocabulary, search for synonyms, and correct any mistakes you find.
Use Grammarly check
After writing your job application, check out the grammar mistakes. Make sure you pay attention while correcting the errors. Using a tool such as Grammarly or ProWritingAid may help.
Final Verdict
Following the right way would make your job application very effective, and you are more likely to get the desired job. Make your job application impressive by following the rules for each section, using the extra tips, and following the correct format. Be brief and use adequate and relevant vocabulary.
