Once you've got a resumé and cover letter, and you know what your options are, you're ready to take the next step — actually going out and applying for the jobs you want.
The job application process doesn't end with responding to want ads and delivering your resumé to companies of interest. You may still have to keep the ball rolling by following up on previous contacts, filling out application forms and — if all goes well — going in for interviews.Even the way you deliver your resumé can affect an employer's reaction to your application. Here are some key things to keep in mind:
- Drop your resumé and cover letter off in person — unless the employer has specified otherwise — preferably to the person who does the hiring.
- Tell the employer who you are and what kind of work you want. Be ready for anything — even an on-the-spot interview. (Have your SIN card and list of references handy… and review the Tips for Successful Interviews section before leaving… just in case!)
- Fill out an application form, if you're asked to do so.
- Thank the employer and ask if you can call back in a few days.
If you don't hear back within a week, call to make sure they received your resumé — reminding them who you are and what job you applied for. If they tell you that the job is filled or that no jobs are available, politely thank them for considering you and say that you will stay in touch with the company to learn about future job openings.When you apply for a job, you are often asked to complete an application form. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Read the entire document first and follow directions carefully.
- Print or write as neatly as possible.
- Be honest. Remember that you will have to sign your name to the information you provide.
- Include all paid and unpaid (e.g., volunteer) work.
- Answer every question. Write "N/A" (not applicable) if a question doesn't apply to you.
- Complete areas that ask for "Additional Information". This helps employers learn more about you.
- Attach your cover letter and resumé to your application form.
You never get a second chance to make a good first impression.
If you do hear back from potential employers, they'll probably ask you to come in for an interview. You'll have only a short period of time to demonstrate that you are the person to hire. If you're nervous, try practising for the interview. That way, you'll feel more confident and be better prepared to answer the interviewer's questions.
Here are a few tips to help you succeed in an interview:
- Learn as much as you can about the job and the company before you go for the interview.
- Think of some of the reasons why the employer would benefit from hiring you.
- Prepare questions that you think the employer might ask, then practise the answers with your friends or family.
- Market yourself. Don't exaggerate your abilities, but don't sell yourself short either.
Commonly Asked Questions Include…
- What can you tell me about yourself?
(Expand on the information in your resumé.)
- Why are you interested in this job?
(Know what the company does and explain your interest in doing it.)
- What are your strengths and weaknesses?
(Be honest about your good qualities — without bragging — and don't dwell on your bad habits.)
- What skills can you bring to the job?
(Market yourself! Think about the personal skills inventory you developed earlier.)
- Do you have any questions about the job?
(Think of some questions to ask to show that you're interested and have been paying attention.)
Don't be surprised if your interviewer takes notes during the interview. You should also bring a pen and paper so that you can take notes too.
Interview Checklist Make sure you remember to bring:
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Today's employers often ask for resumés to be submitted by e-mail. Often, you can send it as a regular attachment (e.g., saved in Word, WordPerfect or other software). Sometimes employers will want you to submit resumés using ASCII text only.
If you have no idea what this means or how to send an electronic resumé, check out the Canadian Careers Web page on electronic resumés.Interview DOs
- Dress more formally than you would normally dress for the job.
- Introduce yourself. Don't wait for someone else to make the first move.
- Be ready to shake hands. Do it firmly.
- Show your energy and enthusiasm for the job.
- Listen closely to the interviewer.
- Make eye contact. (If you don't, you'll come across as either lacking confidence or having something to hide.)
- Answer all questions carefully and honestly. Take the time to think over your answer when you need to.
- Close the interview by restating your interest in the job and summarizing your good points.
- Arrange to call back in a few days.
Interview DON'Ts
- Don't be late. If you're going to be late, or if you can't make it to the interview, call the employer as soon as possible and explain why.
- Ask if you can arrange a new interview time.
- Don't come across as too shy or too aggressive.
- Don't answer questions with merely "yes" or "no" responses — elaborate... sell yourself by giving concrete examples.
- Don't say anything negative about other people or past employers.
- Don't lie or exaggerate your abilities.
- Don't be overly familiar with the interviewer.
- Don't chew gum, interrupt or use slang during the interview — even if the interviewer does.
Just before the interview, take deep breaths and relax your muscles. This will help you relax physically and mentally. Don't try too hard to impress the interviewer — just be yourself.If you get a job offer, don't be afraid to discuss the terms and conditions before accepting. Find out — or confirm — things like what you'll be doing, the hours you'll be working and whether there's an orientation procedure for new staff. If you have any concerns, don't hesitate to share them with someone whose opinion you respect before committing yourself.
Aside from breathing a sigh of relief, there are two things you should do right after your interview:
- Go over the details of the interview and consider what worked and what didn't. What would you say or do differently the next time you're in an interview?
- Write a thank-you letter to the interviewers thanking them for their time, restating your interest in the job and subtly reminding them of your qualifications.
The first task will help you make sure you learn from each interview experience. The second gives you yet another opportunity to sell yourself and make a good impression.
If You Don't Get the Job…
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