Applications

Job applications vary widely depending on the job title, industry, and company. Some job openings simply ask for your contact information, work history, and availability, while others require you to complete an application form and send professional documents like a resume, cover letter, writing sample, and a list of references.

Submitting applications can be time-consuming and feel repetitive, so we recommend identifying the jobs you really want and putting your best effort into those. If you’re filling out an online application form, it would be helpful to have copies of your general resume and cover letter open where you can copy and paste information into the appropriate fields.

Customizing Resumes and Cover Letters for Each Job

Submitting applications can be a job in itself, but it’s important to customize each resume and cover letter to the job. As much as you want the job, the employer also wants to find the right person for the position. 

Hiring staff will review applications individually, but many also use computer software like Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to weed out generic applications that don’t include specific keywords from the job description. One trick that helps is using word-cloud generators to identify which words are most important in job postings or the company’s “about us” page.

Tailoring your Cover letter

• Address the hiring manager (by name if possible)
• Include the job title and name of the company from the job posting
• State how you found out about the position and why you’re interested in it
• Mention some of the skills and experience wanted in the job posting

Tailoring your Resume

• Tie your experience and qualifications into those wanted in the job posting
• Use some of the keywords and language from the job posting

Employer-Led Searches

Once you submit applications, employers interested in you may look you up through search engines and social media. According to various surveys, nearly 3 out of 4 employers admit they use social media to evaluate candidates and almost 8 out of 10 employers have rejected a candidate because of their social media activity.

There might not be much you can do about your search engine results, but when getting into the job hunt, take inventory of your social media profiles and what you’ve shared through pictures, videos, comments, and links. Use your discretion and consider the following:

• Be mindful of your username and how it can reflect on you
• Update your profile picture to appear professional or sharing public content that relates to your professional interests or background
• Go private on accounts that are intended only for family and close friends
• Remove pictures, inflammatory language, or content that could raise eyebrows or red flags

Social media platforms serve different purposes, but LinkedIn was designed specifically for professional networking and resources. If you have a LinkedIn account, update your profile to show who you are and what you’ve done as if it’s your second resume.

Receiving Phone Calls and Emails

In addition to getting more views on your social media accounts, you will also be receiving phone calls and emails from employers. The phone number and email address listed on your resume, cover letter, and application forms should be current and accessible so you don’t miss any messages. Here are some quick tips:

• Do not use work phone numbers or work email addresses
• Use a professional email address and create a signature block that includes your name and contact info
• Answer incoming calls professionally by stating your name
• Try to take calls when you can speak without distractions or current coworkers nearby
• Record a professional voicemail greeting that asks callers to leave a message so you can respond as soon as possible
• When you respond to a message, try to do so during respectful business hours

Attending Networking Events or Sitting in on Webinars

When you’re not filling out forms or sending emails, you’ll have opportunities to attend in-person and virtual events to connect with other job seekers, learn best practices for job hunting, and meet with employers looking to hire. Look into resources from Next Steps Idaho, the Idaho Department of Labor, community colleges, local libraries, and employers to access job-related events that match your interest and goals like

• Job fairs
• Conferences
• Professional mixers
• Speed networking
• Webinars
• Workshops

Getting comfortable enough to participate in social events takes time for some of us, but talking about yourself is great practice for an interview and may even lead to your next job.

Working with a Recruiter vs. Going Solo

Sometimes people choose to use professional help in their job hunt by using recruiters. Recruiters serve as a middle-person between an employee and employer, essentially like a matchmaker. Their goal is to understand the goals and capabilities of both parties to relieve the stress of job hunting and recruiting while increasing efficiency. If you choose to go the recruiting route, do your research before working with them, and if you’re unsure about their integrity or reputation, walk away. Note that recruiting services should also be free for job seekers since employers cover the cost of finding the right people. 

How to Turn Down Job Offers

At some point along the job hunt, you will hopefully begin to receive invitations to interview and offer letters for a job—in that case, congratulations! You might also decide that those opportunities are for positions you no longer want. If that’s the case, you should inform the employer to remove your name from consideration so they can pursue other candidates, and don’t forget to thank them for their time. As both a job seeker and a professional, you will want to be respectful and keep positive relationships with employers who may one day be your customer, refer you to others, help you grow your business, or keep your application on file for the future. 

The Uncertain Length of the Job Hiring Process

A few things are certain in the job hunt, but there’s also uncertainty in how long it will take and how it will look. Everyone’s process is different and influenced by factors within and outside of our control. Unfortunately, that means days or months could go by without a response from employers, affecting your personal and professional decision-making. Here are some tips to help with managing the uncertainties of the job hunt:

• If at least a week has passed after submitting your application or last hearing from the employer, reach out to ask if there’s anything you can provide to help answer questions about your application or if they know when you can expect an update
• Attend events or webinars that can help you with job hunting opportunities and improving your approach
• Revisit your resume and online social accounts to check for areas to edit or update
• You may never hear back from some employers, but don’t take it personally; employers have their own factors like staff turnover, industry changes, or economic constraints
• Don’t put all your eggs in one basket; Continue to search for other jobs that interest you and submit applications
• For tips on staying confident and avoiding burnout, check out our other resources here