Some employers require you to complete a written application form as the first step in the selection process.
If they don’t, you’ll have to write an application and send it to the employer. A written job application includes:
- a covering letter
- a response to the job specifications or selection criteria, if one is required. Attach this after the covering letter.
- a resume.
Keep the following in mind when responding to a job in writing:
Apply on time
Most advertisements list a closing date for applications. That date might be in a week or two, but it’s good to send your application two or three working days after the advertisement appears.
If there is no closing date on the advertisement, respond immediately.
Address the requirements in the ad
Your covering letter should refer to all the skills—both hard and soft—listed in the advertisement.
If you meet the main hard qualifications the ad asks for, state this in the opening sentences of the letter, or during your initial contact with the employer. You should describe how, when and where you developed or refined the hard requirements or skills. For example:
My two years as a snack bar attendant, combined with one year as a supervisor in the supermarket industry, have equipped me well for the position of Customer Service Consultant.
Next, talk about the soft requirements. Don’t just quote these requirements word for word—describe how you meet them; for example, describe briefly instances where you’ve shown initiative or attention to detail.
Emphasise what you can do; don’t draw attention to what you can’t.
Check your application carefully
If you are using a computer, use the word processing program’s spelling checker—but don’t rely on that alone. Read your written job application slowly and closely before you send it. Correct all spelling or grammatical errors.
Get someone else to read the application, too. Another person will often pick up errors you missed, suggest ways to make your words clearer or even suggest past jobs or talents that you’ve forgotten to mention.
What to include; what to leave out
Send exactly the number of copies of the application the advertisement asks for.
Don’t include copies of certificates or references unless the ad requests them—but do take these along to the interview.
Don’t put the application in any kind of folder or plastic envelope. This kind of presentation is annoying when employers or recruiters have a lot of applications to sort through.