The job application process can be long and hard. Especially if you are a graduating senior like me, this is crunch time for us. Here is a compilation of a few tips I’ve learned throughout my time speaking to senior executives and professionals from the success center.
1. Prepare a killer resume
- Pay attention to the layout!
- If you’re interviewing for a creative design job opp for a layout that is less traditional and shows your creative ability.
- If you’re applying for a business administration or management job opp for a more traditional layout.
- Use clean and concise phrases – Employers only look at resumes for an average of 6 SECONDS! – Use the exact words from the job description!
- Make sure you are using the words presented in the job description. This is especially important if you are uploading your resume to an online website. Most likely it will be going through an internet scan looking for very specific words.
- Try and use fancy words and phrases like “developer of innovative resolutions”, “results based performer”, and “global thinker”
- Only add relevant job experience to the position you are applying for.
- Don’t add every job you ever had since middle school to your resume. Focus on the experiences that apply and make you stand out for the specific job you are applying for.
2. Follow it up with a strong cover letter
This is where you can elaborate on what you are looking for out of this position, why you want to work for the company, all of the experiences you have learned, and ultimately what you can bring to the table. Try to write in ways that will add value to yourself. The cover letter is also where you can use specific words and qualifications they’re looking for in the job description.
The most basic structure for a cover letter includes:
- Intro paragraph: introduce yourself with a unique opening line, describe the role you’re applying for, and why you are interested in the job and the company. Lastly, briefly explain what makes you the perfect fit.
- Body paragraph(s): Talk about the responsibilities in your current/ past positions, the projects you participated in, skills you gained, and the impact you had.
- Closing paragraph: Explain in more detail why you’re interested in the position, why you’re passionate about the company, and why you’re a good fit. Talk about ways you would contribute to the company and their success.
- End with a “call to action”: Invite the reader to move forward with the application by asking them to follow up with you, or ask them to talk about more ways you could add value to the company. Lastly, don’t forget to thank them for reviewing your cover letter.