By Dorcas Karuana,
Last week I got an email from a reader, asking me for advice about how to elicit a response to his online job applications. “I have been actively applying to employment opportunities on numerous websites but I never get any type of feedback,” he wrote. He estimated he had pursued 80 openings in the last year, and received only two responses. Neither had led to a new job. This job seeker wanted my advice about making his online applications successful and in particular, how he could get employers to reply to his queries.
Before you start applying for jobs you need to make sure that you are ready. Do you have the needed documents? Are you organized? Are your social media sites such as Linked In updated? There are several things that you can do to increase your odds of being chosen for a position that fits you well. Here are top six suggestions for getting the most visibility out of your online application:
1.Thoroughly read job descriptions. Most recruiters will tell you a big challenge for them is having job seekers who apply even if they aren’t qualified for the job. Take the time to understand exactly what the company expects from applicants for jobs that interest you; do not ignore the detailed description of what the job entails. For the best response rates, make sure your content and experience match up accordingly
2. Your CV format –Have a ready CV and cover letter. Ensure that the CV is plain text, with the relevant information starting from the left margin, flowing downward, with headings at the top, then details below headings. Avoid using tables. You may choose to follow the good CV writing tips that you can gather from professional CV writers. Also ensure that your CV has job search key words.
3. Application by online forms – Several organizations may require you to fill out a form that gives them you basic details which may include; personal details, education, work experience, achievements, referees, as well as, name, job title, telephone number and email address of previous employers. Having this information on hand will help you be more organised and be able to focus better on filling the form.
4. Uploading your CV – When uploading your CV to a website you need to ensure it is a general CV that illustrates the key skills that you have that illustrate you have the experience needed to apply for the jobs you are interested in applying for.
5. Email applications – The subject line of the application should be as stated in the job advisements. You will need to adapt your cover letter for ever job. Make sure when you are sending an application online you do not use an email address that says, magamestight@gmail.com, not a very professional impression. Secondly make sure your CV and cover letter are well labelled. My CV or Ciks docx, not only give the recruiter more work as they need to label them for you but may also lead to confusion. Write Godfrey Ongweno CV or Godfrey Ongweno CL. Typically you can turn your CV into the application email tailoring the wording to suit the jobs application. Apply as soon as you see the opening and send only the documents requested.
6. Does the job sound to good to be true? – When applying for jobs online it is important that you ensure the jobs/ agents are credible. There are several trusted job sites. Again, before you apply you should use a bit of common sense. A credible employer will never ask you to pay for your own interview. Secondly find out where the offices are. Also remember a job of Kshs 15,000 cannot have a housing allowance of Kshs 30,000, Airtime, a secretary and a relocation fee. If you feel unsure about the job, check the internet for a website, phone directories, then contact the company about the position, or if you are nearby you can go to their office.
In conclusion, applying for jobs online does need some basic information, a strategy but most of all a method of working that can enable you to be successful in your job search.
Dorcas is the Head of Recruitment at Corporate Manpower East Africa.
Email: dorcas(at)corporatemanpower.co.ke