The Dos and Don’ts of Submitting a Job Application

Applying for a job can be a daunting task for anyone. From crafting the perfect resume, to writing a cover letter that stands out among the competition, to navigating online application systems – there are a lot of elements to consider when submitting a job application. To help job seekers navigate the process, we’ve compiled a list of dos and don’ts to ensure that your job application stands out and gets noticed by potential employers.

DO: Tailor your application to the position and company

One of the biggest mistakes job seekers make is sending out generic resumes and cover letters for every job they apply for. While this approach may save time, it won’t make you stand out among the competition. Instead, take the time to customize your application materials to fit the specific position and company you’re applying to. Research the company and its mission, and make sure that your application reflects how you can contribute to their goals.

DON’T: Copy and paste from your resume into your cover letter

While it’s important to tailor your application to the specific job and company, it’s also important not to copy and paste the same information from your resume into your cover letter. The cover letter is your opportunity to showcase your personality, skills, and accomplishments in a way that complements your resume. Use the cover letter to tell a story and explain how your experiences have prepared you for the position you’re applying for.

DO: Proofread your application for errors

Nothing screams “lack of attention to detail” like a typo or grammatical error in your job application. Make sure to proofread your resume, cover letter, and any other application materials before submitting them. It’s also a good idea to have a friend or mentor review your application to catch any errors you may have missed.

DON’T: Submit an incomplete application

Employers receive hundreds of job applications for each opening, so it’s important to make sure that your application is complete before submitting it. Double-check that you’ve included all of the required materials, such as your resume, cover letter, and any relevant work samples, and that you’ve filled out all of the required fields in the online application portal.

DO: Highlight your accomplishments

When crafting your resume and cover letter, focus on your accomplishments rather than just listing your job duties. Use numbers and metrics to quantify your successes and showcase how you’ve made a positive impact in previous roles. For example, instead of saying you “managed a team,” say that you “led a team of five sales reps that increased revenue by 30% in six months.”

DON’T: Lie on your resume or cover letter

It may be tempting to exaggerate your accomplishments or qualifications to make yourself look better to potential employers, but it’s not worth the risk. If you’re caught in a lie, it could not only cost you the job – it could also damage your professional reputation. Stick to the truth and focus on highlighting your actual accomplishments and qualifications.

DO: Follow up after submitting your application

After you’ve submitted your application, it’s a good idea to follow up with the employer to express your continued interest in the position. Send a polite and professional email thanking the employer for their time and reiterating your qualifications and interest in the position. This can help you stand out among the competition and show the employer that you’re proactive and committed to the job search process.

DON’T: Be too pushy or aggressive in your follow-up

While following up after submitting your application can be a helpful way to stay top-of-mind with employers, it’s important not to be too pushy or aggressive. Wait at least a week after submitting your application before following up, and don’t send more than two or three follow-up emails. Be respectful of the employer’s time and decision-making process, and don’t take it personally if you don’t hear back right away.

DO: Be honest about your salary expectations

When applying for a job, it’s important to consider your salary expectations and how they align with the position and company you’re applying to. Be honest about your salary expectations and open to negotiation if the employer makes an offer that’s below what you were hoping for. It’s also helpful to do research on average salaries for similar positions in your industry to make sure that your expectations are reasonable.

DON’T: Focus solely on salary in your application

While salary is an important consideration when applying for a job, it shouldn’t be the only factor you focus on in your application. Make sure to highlight other aspects of the job that are important to you, such as company culture, professional development opportunities, and work-life balance. This can help the employer see that you’re looking for a long-term fit rather than just a paycheck.

In conclusion, submitting a job application can be a stressful experience, but by following these dos and don’ts, you can increase your chances of getting noticed by potential employers. Customizing your application to fit the specific position and company, highlighting your accomplishments, and following up in a professional manner can all help you stand out among the competition and make a positive impression on potential employers.

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