JOB APPLICATION TIPS

Applying for jobs can be overwhelming. We understand that, so we’ve put together some easy to follow tips to help you get you started:

Should I call?

If you find an advertised role that you think is perfect for you, be bold and pick up the phone! Especially if the advertisement includes contact information – it is important to make the employer aware of your application and separate yourself from the other applicants
If the advertisement specifically asks you to request a position description, you MUST do this. Not doing so will reflect negatively on your level of interest in the role
Sometimes it can take up to 2 or more weeks after the closing date for an employer to get back to you. If you do not hear back in this time frame, it can be a good idea to follow up to check on the progress of the recruitment process
Alternatively, you may decide to follow up with an email – you need to attempt to assess the situation as there is no golden rule

It is not necessary to include referee contact details with your initial application. If the employer would like to contact them, they can request these later
The employer will want to confirm the following information with your referee(s):
- How long you worked with the referee for
- What your responsibilities were when you worked with them and;
- Your general work performance (punctuality, attendance, attitude, etc)
Before providing your referee’s contact information, make sure you have asked the referee to speak on your behalf, this is very important
Inform the referee what role(s) you are applying for
Ensure the contact information is accurate
Ideal referees are people you have worked for or reported to (a manager, supervisor or business owner)

The purpose of addressing key selection criteria is to demonstrate relevant skills to the role. This is only required when the job advertisement requests a response to the key selection criteria
Responses to key selection criteria should be submitted as a separate document from the cover letter and resume
The key selection criteria will be listed in the position description. Copy these points to a word document and write maximum of 3 paragraphs for each criteria
The responses must include examples of when you have demonstrated the key selection criteria in a previous position. Key Selection are evidence based and provide you an opportunity to demonstrate specific examples of your capability, relevant to the role requirements
If there is a key selection you have not had experience with, acknowledge this and include a paragraph about how you would overcome this. You will be more likely to be successful in the position if you are honest and genuine about your experience

Tips once you have submitted an application

Make sure your phone message bank has an appropriate and clear voice message
Once you have submitted an application, the employer may call you to discuss your application. Be prepared for this – make sure you keep relevant information to the job as handy as possible so when they call you can quickly refer to it
If the employer calls you at an inconvenient time, you are better off not taking the call or letting them know it is inconvenient and arranging a mutually suitable time for them to call back
If you have applied for a role, regularly check your messages and respond promptly