Graduate Application Advice

The job application process for graduates can be very daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Job applications are an important part of a graduate’s life once university is finished as they are necessary to achieve the main goal of a university education - obtaining a job. People are not taught how to undertake a job search, it is a life skill that once you dedicate some time and effort into perfecting, will be invaluable to you for the rest of your career and working life.

There are many different ways for a graduate to secure a job. Companies may use several recruiting methods in their search for the right applicant: direct recruiting via their company website, recruiting via a recruitment consultancy or recruitment agency, advertising on online jobboards or having a stand at a graduate recruitment fair. The more applications you make, the higher your chances are of getting an interview so below is some useful advice to get you started.

Cover Letter Tips

To introduce and set the tone for your application, a cover letter should always be sent with a CV.  The cover letter is your way to introduce yourself to a potential employer and to highlight your experience and skills relevant to the job specification. This is your chance to demonstrate to an employer why they should consider hiring you.

What you want the employer to know
You have excellent written communication skills.
You are of good character and have dedication.
That they want to talk to you!

Areas you need to cover

• Start off by directing your letter to the individual who was specified in the job advert – the letter should always be addressed to a named person.
• Introduce yourself – say who you are. 
• Mention the job you’re applying for, state any reference number and where you saw the advertisement.
• Explain why you are right for the position including briefly stating your skills, education and work experience.
• Explain why you want to work for their company and why you would be right for the position itself – let them know you have done your research on the company.
• Thank them for considering your application, tell them you’re looking forward to hearing from them and let them know you’re available for an interview.

Rules of the cover letter

• Be positive - using positive language will help you to come across as approachable and confident.
• Double-check your spacing, grammar and spelling.
• Make sure all names and titles are correctly spelled.
• Explain any personal situations or any inconsistencies in your application.
• Convey how you would be of benefit to the company rather than focusing on how the company could benefit you.
• Keep your letter to one page – this will encourage the employer to read and pay full attention to the entire letter.
• Make sure the cover letter matches your CV with regards to font, spacing, style, paper etc.

Remember a cover letter is particularly useful to highlight any work placements, internships or a gap year - this will make you stand out from the other graduates applying for the same position.  This information should also be on you CV but in much greater detail.