How do you stand out from the crowd when applying for your first job? As an HR professional that is the number one question that I am asked when meeting students looking for that first break into the world of work.
It can be a daunting task and you often only have one chance to make a positive and professional impression.
Here are some top tips to help you through the application process:
CV and Cover Letter:
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Tailor your CV to each application and highlight relevant skills and experiences.
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Keep your CV to 2 pages maximum and visually appealing but keep it simple. Don’t be tempted to use a generic CV creator tool.
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Choose a good font, such as Arial.
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Address your cover letter to the correct person and adapt it to suit the job vacancy – demonstrate your enthusiasm for the position and the company.
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ALWAYS use spell check!
Showcase your Personality:
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Try to stand out as an individual. If you’re applying for a graduate role, remember that the recruiters will likely receive hundreds of applications.
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Highlight your hobbies, experiences and interests.
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Showcase any extra-curricular activities like playing team sport or volunteering for charity work or a gap year for travel – these sorts of things help give recruiters an insight into you and your personality.
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If you’ve no job or work experience talk about your educational experience and how the courses/activities/projects you’ve taken have helped you prepare.
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Shout about any successes or times where you excelled – showcase results on team projects or challenges at University/College.
Research the Company:
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Learn about the company’s mission, values, and culture.
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Understand the job requirements and how your skills align with them.
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Consider what support/training a prospective employer can offer. You’ll need support in your first role. A buddy or mentor scheme can be a great place to start.
Online Presence:
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Clean up your social media profiles and ensure they present a professional image.
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Create or update your LinkedIn profile to showcase your skills and experiences.
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Don’t be afraid to use LinkedIn to connect with the recruitment team and ask for advice on the application process.
Practice Interviewing:
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Prepare answers to common interview questions, such as describing your strengths, weaknesses, and relevant experiences.
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Practice with a friend or family member to improve your communication skills and build confidence.
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Research common behavioural interview questions and think of examples from your experiences that demonstrate relevant skills.
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Prepare some thoughtful questions to ask during the interview to show your interest. Some good examples are:
- What can the company offer me in terms of career development?
- What do you enjoy most about working here?
- How would you define success for someone in this role?
- What is the best thing about working for this company?
- Have I answered all of your questions?
Professional References:
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Seek permission in advance from individuals who can provide positive references – such as employers, coaches, lecturers / teachers or mentors.
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Inform your references about the jobs you’re applying for, so they can highlight relevant skills and experiences during the reference check.
Be Prepared and Punctual:
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Arrive early for your interview if it’s in person.
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If it’s virtual make sure your device is working and you have a good wi-fi signal. Check everything connects first time. Think about where you’re going to sit, you need to look professional and need to avoid noise/interruptions.
Work Experience and Continuous Learning:
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While you are looking for work, consider doing some work experience / volunteering to give you first-hand experience in a suitable/related field.
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Stay updated with industry trends, new technologies, and relevant skills through online courses, workshops, or certifications.
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Highlight your commitment to professional growth during the application process.
Network:
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Reach out to family, friends, or acquaintances who may have connections in your desired field.
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Attend job fairs, career events, and industry-specific gatherings to meet professionals and learn about potential opportunities.
Be Realistic and Flexible:
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Try and stay sensible – applying for a Head of or Director role is going to take some time.
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Be flexible – gaining your first role is all about getting onto the career ladder and taking that first initial step.
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Consider further training, an apprenticeship can be a good place to start.
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As your experience and skills grow, so should your salary. A graduate scheme often factors this in, but a good employer should recognise contribution and effort.
Follow-Up:
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Send a thank you email or note after the interview to express your appreciation for the opportunity.
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If you haven’t heard back within a reasonable time frame, consider calling to inquire about the status of your application and / or send a polite follow-up email.
Don’t Give Up:
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Remember, landing your first job may take time and persistence.
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Don’t get discouraged by rejection and use each experience as an opportunity to learn and improve your application skills.
Good luck with your job search!
If you liked this blog then you might also like to read Top Tips On How To Find A New Job
