READ THE ADVERTISEMENT CAREFULLY
Job advertisements vary greatly in their detail, the information provided about the company and the job, and the skills, experience and characteristics required. They are generally written for the right candidate to read the advertisement and say “That describes me.”
While generic skills are important and are transferable, some advertisers tend to over emphasise generic factors which can be taken as given requirements for a role (for example, “excellent communication skills” or “polished presentation” or “dynamic”). While these generic descriptions indicate the ideal candidate, focus on the description of the company, the job, the industry knowledge and the specific skills and experience required. In most instances, it is industry knowledge, technical knowledge and related experience the advertiser is seeking.
If you are uncertain about your suitability for the position, or you want to know more about the position before submitting an application, phone the advertiser and clarify within reason (ask only a few key questions which will help you make a decision to apply or not) whether the opportunity is appropriate for you and whether you would be considered for the role if you submitted your resume.
If the advertisement is written by a recruiter:
Don’t ask to be told the name of the client company. Many companies use recruitment consultants to ensure initial confidentiality in the market place. However you should expect the courtesy of being told the client’s name at the first interview;
Make sure you have read the full advertisement and ask only questions about points not covered in the advertisement. Nothing irritates advertisers more than being asked questions which are answered in the advertisement;
Make sure you finish the call with a clear decision from the recruiter as to whether you should submit your resume or not. At times you will be told that your background and experience is not the right fit for the position, but you will be invited to submit your resume for registration on the database for future opportunities;
With the additional information you now have on the position requirements, write a more incisive application letter than would have been possible before you made the call.
If the advertisement has the employing company’s logo on it:
Briefly research the company or division of the company and the industry before making the call;
Assess how relevant your background is for the company, its industry and the role;
Make sure you have read the full advertisement and ask only questions about points not covered in the advertisement;
Make sure you finish the call with a clear decision from the company contact as to whether you should submit your resume or not;
With the additional information you now have on the position requirements, write a more incisive application letter than would have been possible before you made the call.
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