Are you nearing the end of your studies? Then now is the time to start
preparing for the job application process. Thorough research and preparation
are key elements for your way to career success. Lay the groundwork now so you
can send out compelling job applications that will convince any company that
you are the right candidate for the job.
1. Do Your Research
Starting early and conducting regular research is the best way to figure
out what kind of jobs you may want to apply for. A job that excites your
classmate might not interest you at all. What field do you want to work in?
What companies do you know in this field? What other companies exist? And do
they offer a job you could see yourself in? Unfortunately, there is no easy
solution. It takes time and effort to find the right kind of job and a bit of
luck to find it at the right time. So remember: You cannot start researching
job opportunities too early!
2. Update Your CV
You finally found a job you like and now you are starting to prepare your
job application. Right? Wrong! In the time it takes you to prepare your
documents, all applicants who previously prepared theirs will already have an
advantage over you. Do you really want to get in line behind them? Regularly
update your CV and make sure you have a finished version before you even start
looking for a job. This way, once you see a job you like, you only need to add
some finishing touches before sending out your CV – and you will be one of the
first applicants.
3. Prepare Your Cover Letter
The same holds true for cover letters. While sending out a generic cover
letter for all kinds of jobs is not a good idea, you can definitely prepare a
general structure. This cover letter can then be individualized by changing it
slightly and stressing the skills that are important for each job. If you apply
in different fields, you can even prepare different versions that emphasize
your qualities in each field. Once you see a job you like, adjustments will be
fast and simple.
4. Update Your Social Media Profiles
Your party pictures may be a hit among your friends, but do you think your
future employer will think the same? Clean up your social media profiles and
fast. That doesn’t mean you have to delete everything. Many platforms offer
different privacy settings that still allow you to share certain content only
with your friends. In general, you may want to think about who you represent on
social media. Companies increasingly use social media in the hiring process and
go through applicant profiles. This can be a chance for your to shine. Make
sure to restrict the access to your personal profiles and that your LinkedIn or
Xing profile is up-to-date. And don’t forget to add your iversity certificates!
Additional qualifications like this can help you stand out.
5. Prepare A Work Sample
During the application process, some companies may ask you for a sample of
your work. For example, companies may ask for a short text to test your writing
skills or other work samples related to the job. Research your field and find
out what kind of material companies may ask for. It’s best to already prepare a
general work sample or two that you can send in immediately, should companies
request it. This way you can make sure you have enough time to prepare an
excellent work sample that will prove to the company that you are the best
person for the job.
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