Ces Graduates

Applying for jobs

Careers and Employment Service

Graduates
Applying for jobs
When you see or hear about a job you would like to apply for, you will normally be asked to write, e-mail or telephone for further details. 

It is a good idea to request further details even if the advert does not request you to as the more information about the job and organisation you have, the easier it will be to make a good application.

You may be asked to complete an application form, either online or in writing, write a letter of application, submit a CV or call for an informal chat.

See:
Applying for a job:
  • always follow instructions carefully and check the deadline date for applications
  • use the job description and person specification to identify the skills and experience the employer is seeking
  • ask someone you know to read your application form, letter or CV to check for grammar and spelling mistakes
  • be sure to ask permission from the people you are using as referees
  • take a photocopy of your application form, letter or CV before you send them
  • remember; regardless of the way you apply, it's your chance to make a good impression so make sure you do some research and prepare well.
Completing an application form:
  • read the whole form before you fill it in
  • make a photocopy of the form and practise on the copy first or use a pencil and go over it with a black pen when you are sure everything is correctly filled in
  • try to answer all the questions;  if a question is not relevant, write 'not applicable' 
  • answer the questions on the application form by giving examples of how you meet the skills and experience.  Make sure that you illustrate your skills positively, remembering to write about your transferable skills such as IT, communication skills, negotiation skills, and any technical skills gained at university
  • write a short covering letter on good quality paper, and address it to the contact person in the advert.  Make sure you include the job reference and state the reasons why you are applying for the job
  • if applying online, beware of the formatting and make sure the layout is clear
  • if submitting as an e-mail attachment, include job reference and job description.
Writing a letter of application:
  • word process your letter unless the advert asks for a handwritten response
  • use good quality paper
  • describe why you are interested in the job
  • talk about the skills and experiences you have which would make you the ideal candidate
  • mention availability for interview 
  • include details of two referees (make sure you have their permission)
  • it is a good idea to attach a CV to provide the employer with further information.
Sending a CV:
  • make sure your CV is up-to-date and well-presented
  • check it is relevant to the job you are applying for
Download our CV booklet (pdf, 54 kb) for more information about completing CVs and application form.

Telephone interviews:
  • if you are interviewed over the telephone, make sure you have details of the job and your CV handy
  • choose a quiet place where you will not be disturbed
  • have a pen and notepaper handy
  • prepare some questions to ask beforehand.
Interview techniques

Employers will only offer interviews to those candidates whose written applications have sparked some interest.

An offer of an interview indicates that you have successfully completed the first stage of the Job Search 'game'.

Download our interview skills booklet (pdf, 123 kb) for helpful tips.

Assessment centres

Assessment centres are used by some employers to select new staff and develop existing employees. 

Assessment Centres are a means of helping an organisation to identify the strengths and potential development areas of applicants in relation to a particular job or role.

See assessment centres for more information about what to expect.

Psychometric testing

Increasingly employers are using a range of aptitude or personality tests to obtain more evidence of your skills and preferred ways of working.  

These are known collectively as psychometric tests.

See these psychometric testing websites for more information:

www.psychometric-success.com
Information on psychometric tests and practice tests

www.shl.com
Practice psychometric tests

www.markparkinson.co.uk/psychometric_links.htm
Lists practice psychometric test sites

www.wikijob.co.uk/wiki/psychometric-aptitude-tests
for free practice aptitude tests

www.jobtestprep.co.uk/
for free practice tests

Speculative applications

Many people are successful in getting jobs by applying speculatively.

If you are interested in working for a particular employer but have not seen a suitable job advertised, you can write to ask if the organisation plans to recruit staff in the near future:
  • address your letter to a named person, if possible, or to the Human Resources Manager if you are unable to get a contact name
  • finish your letter with 'yours sincerely' if you are writing to a named person and 'yours faithfully' if you are addressing your letter 'Dear Sir/Madam'
  • give the subject of your letter as 'Speculative Application for …' and add the type of role you are interested in
  • include a copy of your CV.