Online Job Application

We all have been there. We apply for a job online, and million questions start crossing our minds. Questions like “Should I write something in the email body or just attach the CV?” OR “Who should I address the email to?”

• Always write a clear email subject.

The way you send an email says a lot about your professional skills. The email subject must be clear and concise. It needs to let the person know what you are discussing in the email, as well as your ability to highlight key information. Instead of having “CV” as your subject, write “Stephanie Sanders CV – Accountant”.

 

• A few sentences in the email body can go a long way.

Recruiters, HR teams, and employers receive dozens of emails a day. The way these emails are composed tells them about who the person is professionally and the goal of their email. Sending an empty email can suggest that you are not putting effort into this application and are just applying everywhere. Adding one or two sentences can show that you care about the vacancy and wish to find a success in this job application.

 

• Make sure you know to who you are addressing the email.

Sometimes when addressing someone in an email, we might not know who they are or what they do within the company. If we do not know their name, the safest way to start the email is “To whom it may concern” OR “Greetings” to remain neutral and professional, instead of “Dear Sirs” or “Dear Sir/Ma’am”.

 

• Make sure your document is properly named.

Your level of organization and professional computer skills can be translated from the way you name and save your documents, which can indicate your level of professionalism. Always include your name when saving your CV. Instead of “CV2020,” save it as “Layla Johnson – CV”.

 

• Know what you are applying for.

Sometimes, we bring our casual social media habits into the professional world without noticing. This includes, speed-reading and skipping necessary information, randomly applying to any job we see, and signing up for anything. When applying for a job online, make sure to read all the requirements and details before proceeding. This way, you are sure that you fit many of the requirements and that this job is for you.

 

• Remember, texting language is not professional language.

When composing an email or talking to any professional or work colleague, try to avoid using acronyms, even on WhatsApp. Instead of “ure,” type ” You are.” Instead of “thx,” type “Thanks” or “Thank you.” By doing this, you are maintaining the boundary between professionalism and casualness. If you felt that you do not have the time or energy to type, explore your phones keyboard settings. You can add keyboard shortcuts that automatically replace your acronyms with fully structured phrases.

 

We hope you find these tips and tricks beneficial and that you are able to apply them in your professional life from now on. Remember, it is all in the details! Small changes can have a huge impact.

Good luck!