How to write a good application...
Text: Stein Tore Nybrodahl ©
Here are some tips & tricks for how
to write a good application. This is taken from a course
I've used several times for internal de-recruitment in
down-sizing processes.
Writing an
application is not easy. Here are som steps to structure an
application to a new employer:
1. Name and adress on top: In the upper left
corner you start with your name and adress with the date and
place on the right side of the paper one line below.
2. Some line breaks below you write the name and adress of
the employeer - Name of the company if no contact person is
stated. Then the top of the application would look like
this:
Stein Tore Nybrodahl
Sandmarkveien 8A
7550 Hommelvik
Trondheim, 11th of June 2016.
Company ABC
DE Road 123
Dymmytown 456
3. In the next header line you state your
application for the position (in bold): Application for
position as HR Manager in Company ABC.
4. In the first text line you address where or from who you got information
about the position. Mention job title, any reference number
and where and when you saw it. Then make a line saying that
you're applying for the position.
5. Briefly
outline your current situation and why you are seeking the
job/ change. Do a short summary of your current or last job. Be honest!
6. Tell
the potential employer why you are interested in the job and
why you think you could do a good job in the actual
position. Be short!
7.
Next chapter is about yourself and
what value-add will you give to the new position and why
should the employer choose you. Read the job
description, talk to people who works in/ knows about
simelar positions, and consider to take a phone call to the
contact person in the job ad to get as much information as
possible. Make a personal list of the 3-5 most important
things you consider to be the most valuable work experience/
other things for the employer. ? Try to be crystal clear
without overselling yourself. This section should be max.
3-4 sentences. Describe your strengths and possible
contribution to the new employer. What will be your
contributions in a new job? Stay on a high level, and do not
go into details. This could be related too:
- Your
education
- Transferable
skills and work experience
- Achievements
and personal results (describe your contribution)
- Personality
traits relevant to the role applied for
- Do
not appear to be too positive or subjective… (Balanced and
trustworthy)
- Your take on this should be: I got something you need =
meet me for an interview!
11. Remember
to sign your letter (Yours sincerely/ Yours Faithfully).
12. Check
that things mentioned in the CV are not duplicated in the
application.
13. Proofread your
letter very carefully for any errors.
14, And don't forget to upload the expected
documents (like CV and application) if the employer make
use of a recruitment system!