You have probably received dozens, if not hundreds of applications for your open position. Now, you need to choose which ones to interview, and which to pass on to the next hiring group. It is highly unlikely that you will be able to assess each applicant’s qualifications in person; therefore, you must resort to various written materials to guide your decision.
The Basics Of A Job Application
You have essentially three components to work with when writing an application letter for a job: the letter itself, references, and sample work. The following will go through each one in detail.
The Letter
This is the first and most crucial piece of evidence that you will need to consider. You must choose an effective way to introduce yourself, your qualifications, and your interest in the position. Your objective is to convince the reader that you are the best fit for the job. To raise your odds of securing an interview, write a short and sweet letter that will make the interviewer want to learn more about you.
The References
A good reference is someone you can call upon to substantiate your claims. If you have previous work experience, you can provide some references from previous employers or educational institutions. If you don’t have any previous work experience, then you must rely upon your academic record to demonstrate your competence. You should include your academic record in your reference letter, as it makes up the majority of your application packages. Your academic record will determine your eligibility for a number of different scholarships and grants, so be sure to list them all in your application. If you are applying for a postgraduate position, then include your graduate reference letter in your application, as well. Remember, a good reference is worth many times its weight in gold, so don’t skimp out!
The Samples Of Work
If you’re applying for a job in a creative field, then you need to include some samples of your work. You don’t need to have a portfolio full of professional samples, but rather something that demonstrates your abilities in a way that is uniquely you. For example, if you are applying for a graphic design job and you have a Tumblr blog that you update regularly, then include copies of your blog posts in your application. Be sure to mention any relevant awards or competitions that you’ve won, as well as things that you’re particularly proud of.
Keep these three things in mind as you put together your application materials: the letter, the references, and the samples of work. Remember, employers and recruiters alike are inundated with applications, so make sure that you stand out from the crowd.