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Applying for a job

Let’s focus: Applying for jobs online & application form

Undoubtedly, the advent of internet has paved the introduction of numerous digital job board platforms. Thanks to such technological simplification, finding jobs online seems an easier task than preparing lunch. Many recruiters thus post their jobs online with the aim to procure fresh talents and/or candidates that are more qualified. While fundamentally remaining the same in concept, the process of each online job application differs from another. Therefore, it is highly beneficial that you know how to apply and where to search for a job. This will help you find the right role that matches your qualifications.

How it works:

You can apply to jobs through an online job portal or from the company’s website. Such professional platforms hold various jobs from thousands of companies. Note that an employer sifts through hundreds of job applications a day. So prior to setting up an online profile, keep your CV and resume up to date alongside a cover letter. Now, once you discover the role you are interested in, research about the specific position and the company. Understand the job description and requirements. Find out whether it matches with your skillsets and qualifications in accordance to what the employer is seeking. Gather enough details about different parts of the organisation such as their aim, the industry and their competitors. You can start learning and gain an insight about the company from studying their website and social media channels. Aside from helping you make a better impression, this can also aid in making your application stand out from the rest. Finally, know when the deadline is set. Remain vigilant while filling in the online (or printed) application form. Verify the information with the relevant particulars and make sure you complete the correct sections of the form. More than simply an application form: Certain employers look for a different type of job application. While one job may seek a resume and cover letter from the candidate, other employers simply demand more from the candidate. Instead, they will ask the candidate to fill in an application form.

Moreover, there is no ‘right’ job application per se. Some companies will necessitate filling in the application from their website while alternatively, other companies will source their application forms to job portals. In practice, job application forms are merely a pathway to get the employer to set up an appointment and meet you. Consequently, your job application should hit the bullseye; it should be catchy and distinct. What an ideal job application contains are your personal and contact information, academic achievements, skills and experience. In addition to such necessary details, the form may require you to provide few examples demonstrating how you maximised a relevant skill (or skills) in a specific situation. This will enable the companies to check whether you are a suitable employee for their workplace. Furthermore, it may also consist of asking the candidate to pen down a personal statement. While composing the statement, write a well-presented, greatly structured and comprehensive case explaining why you are the right candidate for the specific role. Your application form is solely for representational purpose, giving a fraction of who you are as an individual. If selected for the interview round, the actual face-to-face meeting with your potential employer forms a hugely influential factor as well in deciding your application. Hence, in this era of digital job portals, it may seem easy to bag a new job but it certainly could take a while to find the right one. So look forward to this challenge. Take this journey as an adventure. On your path, you will undeniably uncover novel ways to tread across uncertainties and manage to achieve your dreams!

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