Landing your first job is exciting, but the application process can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re applying for a part-time role while studying or looking for your first full-time position, we’ve put together this guide to help you craft a job application that will catch an employer’s eye.
Before you start
Take some time to check if the job is right for you. Ask yourself:
- Can you commit to the hours they’re asking for?
- Do you have most of the skills they’re looking for?
- Is the location somewhere you can get to easily?
- Does the role interest you?
If you’ve answered yes to these questions, then it’s time to get started on your application.
Steps to craft the perfect job application
Once you’ve found the right job, it’s time to submit an application. Here are some tips that can help you land that all-important interview.
Read everything carefully
The number one rule of job applications? Read the instructions thoroughly! Pay attention to:
- The closing date and time
- What documents they need from you
- How they want you to submit your application
- Any specific requirements they mention
Missing even small details could mean your application gets overlooked, so take your time with this step.
Research the company
Employers love candidates who show genuine interest in their organisation. Here’s what to look for:
- What does the company do?
- What are their values?
- What makes them different from similar companies?
- What’s their work environment like?
Pro tip: Use the company’s official website and their social media accounts to find the most up-to-date information.
Create a standout resume
Your resume is often your first impression, so make it count:
- Keep it truthful – never lie about your experience or skills
- Use keywords from the job description
- Highlight relevant experience, even if it’s from school or volunteering
- Keep it neat and easy to read
- Check for spelling mistakes and typos
Need help with your resume? Check out our guide to resume basics to get started.
Get your documents ready
Many jobs ask for supporting documents. Common ones include:
- Proof of identity (like your birth certificate or passport)
- Qualifications or certificates
- References from teachers or previous employers
- Working with children checks (if required)
Keep these documents organised in a folder on your computer so you can find them easily.
Clean up your online presence
This step is often overlooked, but before you apply, do a quick social media audit:
- Set your personal accounts to private
- Remove any inappropriate content
- Create a professional email address (firstname.lastname@email.com looks much better than coolkid123@email.com)
- If you have a LinkedIn profile, make sure it’s up to date
Final checks
Before you hit submit, run through this checklist:
- Have you followed all the application guidelines?
- Are all required documents attached?
- Have you checked for spelling and grammar mistakes?
- Are your contact details correct?
- Is everything saved in the right format?
Take your time with these checks – it’s better to take a bit of extra time to submit a polished application than a rushed one with mistakes.
After you apply
Once you’ve submitted your application:
- Save a copy for your records
- Keep track of where and when you applied
- Look out for confirmation emails
- Check your spam folder regularly
- Be patient – it can take time to hear back
Want more help?
Remember, practice makes perfect. Each application you submit helps you get better at the process, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t succeed right away. Keep trying, and you’ll land that job before you know it!
Looking for more tips on landing your dream job? Check out our other career resources here.