Things To Remember When Applying for Jobs

Job hunting can be a full-time job. Between searching through job posting sites, applying to jobs, and interviewing, it doesn’t leave much time for anything else, especially if one is serious about finding a job. These days, there is so much competition for each and every job that it takes ingenuity and determination to even be noticed by potential employers.

I have more experience than I care to admit in job hunting. I have also been a hiring manager, and have taught several classes on resume writing. There is plenty of information available on the internet on this topic, but I have yet to see one article that covers all the basics.

This list is not meant to be a how-to on resume writing, but rather a reminder of the things that should be checked before you attach your files to an email or application and send them away. I don’t think this is a definitive list, but I do think it covers most of the things that people often forget:

1. Take the time to research every job that you apply for, BEFORE you submit an application. You should never submit a cover letter that says “To Whom it May Concern.” Believe me, “Dear Ms. Smith” is much, much better. There is no such thing as an employer who doesn’t appreciate the initiative that an applicant took in finding out to whom a cover letter should be addressed.
2. Never use a “generic” resume. Your resume will need to be changed, or at least tweaked, for each job that you apply for. If a job posting lists skills, especially soft skills, that you have, make sure those are included in your resume. Not all employers are looking for the same things, and the trick is to match the right skills to the right employers. Again, research will help with this process.
3. Use manners. This seems simple, but in my experience, most people forget this step. A simple “please” and “thank you” in your cover letter can help you get the positive attention you are looking for. Remember, a hiring manager is taking time out of his or her busy day to consider your application, and it never hurts to acknowledge that.
4. Don’t mention things in your cover letter that are already in your resume. Again, to me this seems simple, but most people do exactly that. Instead, use your cover letter to sell yourself, and talk about the things you don’t have in your resume, such as why you are interested in the position you are applying for. This is also a great place to sell some of your soft skills, like punctuality, dependability, and teamwork.
5. Don’t rely on your eyes and spell-check. Always have someone you trust read your resume and cover letter before you send them off. If possible, have several people read them. Even one typo makes you look negligent and irresponsible. Remember that this is your first introduction to the person reading your information, and you want to impress that person by how much you care about the details.
6. Be interesting. I know this sounds a bit strange when we’re discussing job applications, but you need to stand out. The chances are high that your resume is one in a fairly large stack that the manager needs to review, and you need to catch his or her attention. Make sure it’s professional and appropriate, but feel free to reflect your personality in your presentation.
7. If you have any doubts about the quality of your resume, hire a professional. Don’t be afraid of what employers will think of you for doing this – most times, an employer would rather know that you took the initiative to get it right (shameless plug: www.finelyworded.com is my business website, and I do provide resume services).
8. Make sure your contact information (including best times to contact) is mentioned in your cover letter. Most people have their contact info in their resumes, but often people forget to include it again in their cover letters. It’s also a good plan to mention the best way to reach you, and any times that you are likely to be unavailable. This prevents wasted time, and time is valuable. By including this information, you are proving to employers that you respect their time.

I hope this helps. Your future is potentially on the line every time you submit an application, and I believe that any time spent getting it right before you click send is time well spent. Good luck on your job hunt!