Job application advice from Careers Service

IN today's challenging economic times, competition for jobs is tougher than ever, but Joanne McKinney, Careers Manager for Coleraine, Limavady and Ballymoney in the Department for Employment and Learning's Careers Service NI offers job seekers the following tips when it comes to job applications.

“Many companies and recruitment agents will ask you to apply using a standard application form so that they can compare applicants on a like-with-like basis by considering their approach to the form and how they complete it. This will be your first introduction to the company so it’s down to you to make yourself stand out from the rest.

“It’s useful to make a copy or download a few applications so you can practise. Keep copies of your applications for future reference, or to avoid making similar errors if an application is poorly received.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“If there’s little space to list all your qualifications, it may be possible to summarise key results. You could refer to a fuller listing on a separate sheet or mark as ‘available upon request’. If in doubt, contact the employer to check they’re happy to with this approach.

“When it comes to job experience, list your jobs in reverse chronological order, most recent one first by job title. If you did not have an official job title, try to think of one that describes your position well. Describe your responsibilities or achievements in your roles, bearing in mind the skills the employer is seeking.

“If asked for interests and achievements, focus on key words that demonstrate evidence of your skills and abilities.

“Some application forms may require you to complete a personal statement in support of your application. You might be asked to give your reasons for applying’ and other information relevant to the job specification, including your knowledge, skills and experience.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“Your personal statement should relate directly to the specifications of the job or course you are applying for. It is essential to address all the points in the job specification in the order in which they appear – it could be used as a checklist by the person reviewing applications.

“Before sending the form, always ask someone else to check through it as it’s all too easy to miss your own mistakes. We’d also recommend keeping a copy of your application and job advertisement details to review if you get an interview.

Joanne sums it all up by saying: "The most important thing to remember is that we’re ready, willing and able to help. We would urge anyone wanting help with job applications or completing a CV to call in to their nearest careers office. We can also offer help to anyone seeking information or making decisions on staying on at school, going to college, seeking employment or changing jobs.

“The bottom line is that if you’re seeking careers information, advice or guidance you should contact your local careers office, go to Careers Service website www.careersserviceni.com, call us on 028 9044 1781 or visit the employment section on www.nidirect.gov.uk.”

Related topics: