Important key points when submitting electronic application

» Follow directions; be careful to enter the correct data in the correct field.

» Ask for advice from a company recruiter or alumni who may be working or have worked at the company.

» Tailor your information to the position, don't copy and paste text from your generic resume.

» Use key words, buzz words and industry verbiage.

» Use the verbiage in the Job Ad as your model. For specific positions employers search these key words.

» Create a skills-inventory section even if the application doesn't require it. You might use it in a comments section.

» Include numbers and statistics for accomplishments.

» Complete all fields, even those that are not required.

» If company offers optional assessment test on line, take it (automatically screened out).

» Make sure your resume can hold in a very simple format, fancy cosmetics may not be suitable.

» Spell check and grammar check first - error free, this is your first impression.

» Include a strong objective. Get a career counselor to help you.

» Another use for the comments section: demonstrate that you have done research on the company and industry.

» Use quotes from letters of recommendation in your resume or cover letter.

» Follow up your electronic application with a personal email to the recruiter.

» A follow up call too, is acceptable if the advertisement do note indicate No Phone Calls.

Most common mistakes

» Typographical & Grammatical Errors : 34%

» Including too much information : 22%

» Not listing achievements in former roles : 17%

» Poor layout and/or design : 7%

» Others/Don't Know : 3%

Source - Survey on 150 executives from 1000 companies by "National Association of Colleges and Employers USA"

Tips for online job application

The first time you apply for the job, you will automatically get hooked on to the many opportunities or job openings in your dream company.

Applying online can be easy but a good, tailored application requires the same advance preparation as a targeted CV or a hard copy form, although it is more forgiving for those with the handwriting of a drunken spider!

1. Entering and saving of data
You can interrupt the data entry process for your online application at any time and continue where you left off later on. This, of course, assumes that you have saved all entered data prior to quitting. You can complete the tabs in any order. If you happen to remember something later on, you can easily return to the corresponding tab. You also do not need to submit your application right after you complete it. If you like, you can save your data, revise it later on and then submit.

2. Accessing your Account
A registration password will allow repeated access to forms before it is completed and sent, Jobmarket.com.my do not require completion of form in one sitting. Have your relevant certificates on hand. Plan your answers in Microsoft Word (or similar) instead. Give yourself enough time in advance too Internet connections can fail at the last minute.

3. Style
Formality in your application is still a must. Make time to check it over, especially the descriptions and additional information which you have included into the form. Self-marketing: this will on the first line of your resume, just like a first-impression that you create with a new person you are meeting. Make sure the impact is effectively targeted to the position and employer. It is often possible to copy the questions into MS Word and get them checked over by a careers adviser in advance.

4. Accuracy
Grammar and spelling again! Even if you cannot access spell-check facilities on the site, you can download the text into MS Word and access it there.

5. Personality questions
This application forms include a set of multiple-choice questions about your likes, strengths and preferences. These can be used to identify whether your preferred style of working fits with the culture of the organisation and the skills they require. Try to be as honest as possible there can be repeats of questions to ensure your answers are consistent and some questions to check if you are trying to present a favourable impression of yourself. The enhanced features in Jobmarket.com.my makes sure you receive job alerts which matches the jobs specializations that you are interested in, hence, you should add in all that is relevant to your interested job functions.

Preparing for the interview

First Interview

The first interview is an exchange of information between the employer and the applicant. The employer's main purpose is to determine if your education, experience and personal attributes fit the organization's needs. Your main purpose is to emphasize your ability and interest in the job and the employer, and make it to the second round.

The typical first interview proceeds as follows:

1. Brief introduction and building rapport......3 minutes

2. Discussion of your qualifications.............15 minutes

3. Employer information and questions........5 minutes

4. Conclusion and follow-up steps................2 minutes

Tips:

1. Stay flexible and be prepared for different interview styles and time frames from the above model.

2. Most interviewers will take 5 minutes to fill out an evaluation and review the next candidate's resume.

3. Occasionally employers will set up 45-minute or 60-minute first interviews.

4. Most first interviews are conducted by a single interviewer, though team interviews are possible.

Before the interview:

1. Review your background, including work history, internships, coursework, activities, academic projects, interests and goals-particularly as they relate to the employer's needs.

2. Assess your skills and prepare concrete examples. Employers are looking for good oral and written communication skills, interpersonal skills, creative problem solving, the ability to handle stress, and evidence of teamwork.

3. Assess your technical skills, such as computer usage and math competency.

4. Develop a list of “sell" points that highlight your marketable skills and relevant accomplishments.

5. Research the employer through their website.

6. Practice interviewing. Attend a Career Services interview seminar or mock interview session.

7. Attend employer information sessions, especially if you are a pre-selected candidate or have a strong interest in the employer.

On the day of interview:

1. Check your appearance and grooming. Your appearance makes the first critical impression. Business attire is appropriate for almost all interviews, even for education or government positions.

2. Make sure you have ample copies of your resume. Take them to the interview in a slim portfolio.

3. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to be on the safe side.

4. Relax and collect your thoughts.

5. Review your notes. Do not bring out a note pad during the interview.

6. Practice interviewing. Attend a Career Services interview seminar or mock interview session.

With the proper preparation, you will be on the way to getting a building a good rapport with the potential employer.

Second Interview

When an appointment is made for an interview, it is imperative for you to be fully prepared.

Before the interview:

1. Obtain an Itinerary In Advance
It is important to know the schedule of the day's activities, including names and titles of the interviewers. If possible, obtain biographical information about the person who will be interviewing you. For large organizations, brief biographical sketches are available in Who's Who in Business, Who's Who in Government. Some organizations post staff profiles on their Web site. This will give you the opportunity to think about the goals of the interviewers in relationship to their responsibilities and allow you to respond accordingly to their questions.

2. Research the Employer for Relevant Information
Ask the first round interviewer to send you any additional information that you should know about the job, the organization, the department you would work for, or anything else they think is important to review before your visit. Use articles and other information to review the organization’s operations, products or services, and management structure.

Interviewees who are prepared for the upcoming schedule, who understand what to expect, and have knowledge of the workings of the organization and its industry, stand a greater chance of success compare to candidates who do not care enough to do the necessary research.

3. Prepare Questions to Ask Your Interviewers
Your questions will show enthusiasm about working for the employer. Remember you are also interviewing to see if this is the position you want. What would you like to learn about the organization? Below are some topics you may want to cover:
Ask to see a job description.
Ask about the philosophy and/or management style of the organization.
Find out who will supervise you.
Ask what you will be expected to accomplish in the first six months.
Ask about support for professional development.
Ask about the performance appraisal system.
Ask about employee turnover and/or how economic conditions have affected the organization.

4. Other checklist (For outstation interview arrangements):

o » Travel Arrangements: Your travel plans can be handled in a number of ways. You may be asked to make your own arrangements or the organization may coordinate your travel arrangements.

o » Lodging: If you are arriving the day before your interview and staying at a hotel, ask if the organization will be making arrangements for your lodging. Ask the Human Resources representative what expenses are prepaid and what expenses will be reimbursed. Make sure you have clear directions from your place of lodging to the organization. Check on parking options if you are driving to the interview.

o » Miscellaneous Expenses: Take a major credit card to handle unexpected expenses and cash for incidentals (tips, cab, etc.).

o » Reimbursement for Expenses: Large employers will reimburse you by mailing you a check. Smaller employers and government agencies often do not pay travel expenses. If the organization has not stated whether or not they will be paying your expenses, ask them in advance so you know what to expect.
On your trip, be sure to maintain a complete and accurate record of all expenses, including meals, tips, hotels, taxis, buses, etc. Obtain receipts to turn in to the employer for hotel, car rental, bus, and related expenses.

Writing Dynamic Cover Letters

1. Marketing Preparation

o » Determine your strength and weaknesses (who you are)

o » Determine your job and career interests (what you want)

o » Determine the career path you are taking (where do you want to go)

o » Determine potential employers (where do you want to work)

o » Get your tools ready - resumes, cover letters, portfolios (market yourself)

o » Update your database for new job leads from network (contacts)

2. Keys To Successful Cover Letters

o » First point of contact - good first impression

o » Basics in letter writing - open with a topic sentence and followed by its embodiments.

o » Use action verbs and not more than two pages.

o » Get the addressee's name, position, department, and organisation right.

o » A powerful first paragraph - briefly and concisely explain what you want.

o » Relate an objective stating clearly role play in job applied.

o » Respond to the requirements promptly and directly by explaining how you meet up to the job expectations and why you are suitable to the job.

o » Introduction of yourself, simple and to the point not complicated or sophisticated sentences.

o » Focus on key accomplishments derived from knowledge, skills and attributes.

o » Should not be too full of facts that should have been covered by the resume.

o » Incorporate an excellent resume to it.

o » End with a request for an appointment (interview), at time convenient to the interviewer.

3. Common Mistakes To Avoid

o » Ensure objective is clearly stated - do not fail.

o » Emphasize more on achievements and qualify - do not functionalise by duties and responsibilities

o » Forego lengthy and use of big words - two page simple texts will do.

o » Do not submit cluttered accompanying resume - have a structured, easy to read format.

o » First time right, every time right on grammars and spellings - edit and proofread before submission.

Three Basic Types of Cover Letters

1. Specific Reply
There are 5 (five) key elements in the specific reply to an advertisement:

a. Position Applying For

· » Indicate keenness to get the job

· » Show enthusiasm

· Example

I have always wanted to be able to finally expose myself to a full set of accounts practice. The brief position description that was aired/that was advertised came as a tremendous surprise. It was all that I was looking for, couple with the fact that it will report directly to the Accounts & Administration Manager. I am sure being a fast learner and given the opportunity with the right guidance from the superior, I would be able to excel further.

b. Interest in the Job

· » Quote the position as subject header.

· » Quote the reference, if there is one in the advertisement.

· » Mention where you saw the job advertised (newspaper and date)

· » If through some other ways i.e. other Medias, cite them.

· Example

Your advertisement aired over the local radio / in The Star dated January 23rd, 2001, pertaining to the vacancy for a Sales Executive, refers. It really caught my interest when I heard / read the specific requirements mentioned. I believe that it augurs well with what I am having and would appreciate if I can be considered for it.

c. Suitability for the Job

· » Reasons why you are suitable for the job.

· » In particular give a very brief summary of the most important details form your resume.

· » Make sure some cross-referencing is identified so reader would not overlook.

· » Your task is to work out what employer is looking for and to immediately convince that you are right for the job.

· » Here decide on most impressive points and concentrate on them

Is it your experience?

Your potential?

Other factors

· Example

You ask for someone with initiative. I think my current employer would agree that increasing sales by 35% in three years is enough initiative! I firmly believe that I could perform better in larger company with a more varied range of products and wider markets.

d. Availability for Interview

· » Statement on when for both parties.

· » Willingness to provide references upon request.

· Example

Finally, I shall be available for an interview every Wednesday from 9.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. morning. However, if that timing is inconvenient I leave it up to your organisation to decide. I shall provide two referees prior to or after the interview upon request.

e. Any Other Requirements from Advertisement.

· » Job specification / man specification - tailor your letter to its requirements

· Example

a. Good general background and supervisory experience - Production Manager

b. Communicative abilities and self confidence - Sales Manager

2. General Vacancy
Whenever recruiting is being done or qualities which company are looking for is not known.

First step :

· » Do research on company's area of specialization (well-known for)

· » Tailor your letter accordingly

Second step :

· » Suggest you are interested in the company

· » With background suitable for it

Third step :

· » Stand out in the crowd and persuade company's interest in you

Fourth step :

· » Address to HR Manager or highest position in the organization

Checklist :

1) » Have enclosed all necessary components, specimens of previous work if called for

2) » Double check names / titles and advertisement again

3) » Spelling, details, dates, typing and grammar must be accurate

4) » Covering letter and enclosures are kept in right-sized enveloped

§ » Appears clean

§ » References cited on envelope as advertised

§ » Photographs to be attached

3. Electronic Means

• » Refer to screen shot of jobmarket.com.my portal, log on cover letter
• » Follow specific reply cover letter

10 most coveted transferable job skills

1. Budget Management Skills
People who can handle money, make sound financial decisions and analyze numerical data are in great demand.

2. Supervisory Skills
People who can interact with superiors, subordinates and peers. Gives clear orders and instructions. Listen effectively and demonstrate respect and receptivity to others may discover many doors to opportunity.

3. Public Relations Skills
People who can use speaking and writing abilities to deal with the public will find that few companies have enough of this talent.

4. Time Management Skills
People who can cope with deadlines, handle stress and beat the clock are valuable much sought after companies.

5. Negotiation-Arbitration Skills
People who are objective, stable, problem solvers should have little difficulty marketing themselves.

6. Speaking Skills
People who can speak effectively with individuals and groups, listen carefully and empathically, portray good ideas clearly and imaginatively are not only employable but will find many opportunities to advance.

7. Writing Skills
People who can write reports, memos, letters and essays � in plain language � have a competitive edge.

8. Organisation and Management Skills
People who can define problems clearly, evaluate alternative courses of action critically and those who can select and effectively implement solutions are in very short supply.

9. Interviewing Skills
People who can acquire information and make good judgments are vital to the success of most companies. A demonstrated ability to ask good questions during job interviews and critically evaluate responses will impress most prospective employers.

10. Teaching Skills
People who can impart knowledge, develop skills in others and motivate them are needed by employers.