How to Apply for a Job
The best time to apply for a job is when a company is actually hiring. Once you have found a position you are interested in, the application process will determine whether or not you get the job.
Applying
Once you have found a job you are interested in, the next step is to apply. Applications are typically done online, by mail, by email or in person. It is best to follow the application instructions exactly as stated in the job posting. Applications generally include your résumé, cover letter, and an application form.
Résumé
Once you have identified a position that interests you, you will need to apply by sending a résumé (also known as a “curriculum vitae” or a C.V.) and a cover letter. A résumé is a formal list of your qualifications and work experience. The goal is to highlight your education, skills and experience. It is important that your résumé is written clearly and professionally, and that the format is simple. It also needs to be up-to-date and error-free. There are a number of online tools to help you draft a good- looking résumé by providing résumé writing tips and layout options.
Information your résumé should have include your contact information, education, work experience, technical skills and other information like relevant awards, memberships, or volunteer experience.
Be sure not to include you age, place or date of birth, marital status or immigration status on your résumé.
You can visit JobZone d’Emploi for help in formatting your résumé and cover letter. The centre is located at 144 Pitt Street. You can also visit them online by clicking on the link below:
Interview
Based on your résumé and cover letter, the employer will decide whether to invite you for a job interview. A job interview gives the employer a chance to meet you and ask questions to see if you are right for the position. In addition to asking about your qualifications, an interview is an opportunity for employers to see how you communicate and present yourself.
Some common interview questions are:
- Tell me about yourself.
- Why do you want this job?
- Why should we hire you?
- What are your strengths?
- What do you know about our company?
During an interview, the employer cannot ask you any personal questions. These include questions about your age, citizenship, marital status, race and religion.
Preparing for Your Interview
How well the interview goes is an enormous factor in deciding whether or not you get the job. The interview is your opportunity to convince the employer that you will be an excellent fit with the company. To prepare for an interview, it’s important to research the company, dress appropriately and arrive early.
Research the Company
Before your interview, you should research the company or organization you are interviewing with. This way you will be able to show how your skills and experience can directly benefit the company. The company’s website is a good place to start. Be sure to understand the company’s history, their goals and what products and services they offer.
Dress Appropriately
Its important to dress professionally for an interview. Looking polished and professional shows respect for yourself, the interviewer and the company. Generally, you should wear a suit that is comfortable and fits well. For women, if you choose to wear a skirt, knee-length is suggested. Your suit should be simple and dark in colour. When in doubt be more conservative – avoid bright, flashy colours or anything lacy, sheer, or low-cut.
The morning of the interview, shower or bathe and apply deodorant, but avoid cologne or aftershave. Your breath should be fresh and your hair neat and clean.
Arrive Early
Arriving 10-15 minutes early for your interview is acceptable. Being late, even by five minutes, is a really bad first impression. Make sure to double-check the address and figure out how long it will take you to get there in advance.
Bring Your Résumé
Bring an extra copy of your résumé to the interview. Even if you have already given the interviewer a copy when you applied, it is a good idea to have an extra copy on hand.
References
The employer may also ask that references be brought to them during the interview. These references are from people who can discuss your suitability as an employee (such as a former boss, professor or instructor). References can be given in the form of a written letter or in a telephone conversation, so be prepared to provide telephone numbers for people that can give you a reference.
Hiring
After the process is complete, you will receive a formal job offer if the employer is interested in hiring you. It is common for people to send many résumés and cover letters to different places before being invited for a job interview. It may take many attempts before you get an actual job offer. Keep applying and try not to get discouraged!