Crafting a Winning Job Application: The Essentials

This comprehensive course on Job Applications is designed to equip job seekers with the essential knowledge and practical skills required to create impactful and professional applications that stand out to potential employers. We will begin by thoroughly defining what a job application entails, understanding its crucial role in the hiring process, and highlighting the undeniable need for a well-crafted submission.

The course will delve into the practicalities of application format, discussing whether job applications should be handwritten or typed, and outlining the special considerations job seekers must keep in mind. A key focus will be on distinguishing a formal job application from an informal letter, emphasizing the appropriate tone, brevity, and precision required. We will explicitly address what is permissible and what is not in terms of language, such as the use of slang or contractions, and the necessity of signing applications when submitting by post.

A significant portion of the course will cover the critical importance of reviewing and proofreading, explaining why taking a printout to check for errors is a recommended practice. We will provide a wealth of important tips for writing effective job applications and break down the two main components of a job application: the covering letter and the resume.

The course will meticulously detail the proper format of a covering letter, clarifying its similarity to a formal letter. We will discuss the ideal number of paragraphs in the body of the covering letter and provide guidance on word count. The necessity and appropriate length of a subject line will be covered, along with the purpose of the salutation. Furthermore, we will identify the common documents or papers that should be attached, specify where to include the applicant's name and address, and explain where to mention enclosures. The course will also address the generally accepted salutations and the appropriate ink for signing. Finally, we will conclude by defining what should be included in the opening paragraph of a covering letter and clarifying whether personal details belong in the cover letter or resume. This course aims to empower you to present yourself professionally and effectively in your job search.