Most MBA and Masters graduates who apply for a new position have to submit at least two out of three basic documents: the application form, the CV and cover letter. First impressions matter, so it is important that you use this opportunity to a make a positive impact and stand out from the rest. There are a few very important elements to consider when preparing your application material, and although they might seem obvious, it is worth keeping some basic rules in mind:

1. Job application forms

Employers often use the job application form to shortlist those candidates that meet the requirements for the position most closely. It is important to analyze the given requirements carefully and match the required skills- set and expectations. Highlight your strengths relevant to the position and explain briefly how your experience matches the requirements. It is also always helpful to emphasise your proactive approach and self-motivating capacities. Never be too vague in answering a section on the application form or leave any questions unanswered. The HR manager will notice any inconsistencies and they are generally well versed in spotting insincerities in an applicant’s answers. Always keep a copy of the job application form for your files so you can refresh your memory if you get invited to attend a job interview.

When sending the job application form electronically, make sure the formatting is correct so that it arrives in a complete manner. Make sure you have enough time to fill in all sections with diligence and care- if you are rushed, mistakes are bound to happen. Last but not least: don’t forget the attachment when sending the application form in an email. It happens more often that you’d think.

2. CV

Your CV is your best chance to highlight your strengths, your experience and your achievements. This document showcases you as an employee, and so it is important that it is correct and complete. A CV should generally not exceed two pages in length and should contain you personal details, details on your education, work experience, specific skills and achievements. It should also include either the contact details of your referees or a note indicating that references are available upon request. Your CV should give the reader a good impression of what your strengths are, what you can bring to the table as an employee and what skills set you have to offer, without being boastful or overly hyperbolic, as your experience and achievements will speak for themselves. Ensure that your CV is always up to date and prioritize information that is relevant, current and unique. Outdated or irrelevant information should be removed. It is also not necessary to include: your marital status, your age or your gender. And again: if you send your job application by email, don’t forget to attach all relevant documents.

3. Cover Letter

The cover letter is the first impression your potential new employer will have of you. Just like all other application documents it needs to be correct and written with care. Whether you apply for a job via email or by hard-copy, the cover letter is your formal introduction to the HR manager and it should contain brief information on yourself, the job your are applying for, a concise overview of your relevant skills and experience, why you are interested in working in the respective field and why the company interests you. Not every employer will read the cover letter as the first document they receive, but every employer will read it at some stage in the selection process and if your letter is riddled with mistakes or is too vague in its contents, it will make a negative impression and overshadow even the most brilliant of CV’s. Allow enough time to proof-read all of your documents before you send them and make sure that the formatting for all documents is consistent from sender to receiver when sending them electronically. Converting Word documents into a PDF documents format can often avoid ugly formatting errors in the transfer process.