A job application usually entails a few bits of plain text on a page. But what if your application is so special that it deserves more detailed consideration?
What if you want to stand out from the crowd of other job seekers and show employers your unique expertise?
You may be tempted to write a novel about the virtues of your unique skill set or describe how you are the perfect fit for the job position. But, as we’ve discussed before, a novel is not an appropriate sample for a job application. Your goal should be to write a compelling summary of your life’s work that will convince employers to give you a chance.
Let’s explore how you can write a compelling summary for your job application that will leave an impression on your potential employers.
Pitch The Reason Why The Job Is Important to You
You’re applying for a job because you want to contribute to a cause greater than yourself. You believe in the mission of the organization and want to use your skills to help. As the employer, how can you convince the reader you’re making the right decision by hiring you?
The first thing you should do is highlight the reason why you are the best person for the job. Be specific and use statistics where relevant. For example, if you are applying for a writing job, you may want to refer to some of your published works. Or, if you have a background in sales, you can explain how you are the perfect fit for the position as it relates to your experience. Once you’ve established your credentials, you can move on to the next step.
List Your Strengths
Since you’re applying for a specific job, you need to convince the reader that you are the best choice for the position based on your qualifications. The best approach is to list your strengths. You don’t need to list your weaknesses because, ultimately, that’s what your resume is for. Your strengths should match the requirements of the job you’re applying for. Be specific and cite examples of your previous experience. If necessary, explain what you’ve learned from previous jobs. Finally, be confident but not arrogant. The person reading your application will likely be your future boss, so they must see you as credible but not overly self-assured.
Include Any Special Skills That Will Be Beneficial To The Position
There are several key skills required for the job you’ve applied for. If you’ve had experience in sales, you can cite your success in closing deals. If you’re an expert in copywriting, you can explain how you’ve used your skills to write award-winning advertising campaigns. Identify those skills that are necessary for the job and include any relevant training or seminars you’ve attended. Remember: the more you can show that you’re uniquely qualified, the better.
Writing a compelling job application is not as difficult as you’d think. All you need is a little creativity, research, and common sense. And, of course, a copywriter to polish your work. So, don’t be afraid to ask for help if you’re stuck. Just remember to be yourself and be confident.