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So... you've seen your dream job in the paper
or online.

Now's the time to start thinking about what you can offer and how to put it into words... positively! 

Whether you are applying with a CV or application form, the links below will help you to put together your application and research the job and the sector effectively:

• Download our guide to CVs, Covering letters and Application forms

How to target your CV and covering letter to meet employer requirements.

• Compiling your CV - points to consider, what to include, what not to include
• Compiling your covering letter - points to consider, what you need to say
• Different types of CV - there's not just one type, choose the right layout for the role you are applying for
• Top tips for applications via CV/Covering letter
• Where to get more help with your CV/Covering letter
• Hidden Jobs - find out more about using your CV more proactively to find those jobs that never get advertised.
• Improving your English - a guide to sources of help for those who may need to improve upon their written English.

How to complete an application form effectively to maximise your chances of being invited for interview.

• Make several copies of the application form so that you can draft a rough copy first and keep one for the interview.

• Read it through and work out exactly what evidence the employer is asking for in each part.

• Look at the person specification for the job, pick out the essential and desirable criteria, and provide evidence for all criteria.

• Ask yourself, 'What evidence can I put down to demonstrate that I am competent in this?'

• Don't just focus on your degree. All graduates have degrees. What else do you have to offer?

• Prove yourself a more rounded individual by drawing on your experiences outside of academia too: community work, sport, faith groups, music, positions of responsibility you've held.

• Example questions and answers - examples of the questions you can expect to be asked and the type of answer you might give
• Tips for Online applications
• Applications but no interviews - where might you have gone wrong?
• Applications for postgraduate study - useful tips
• Watch the "Your Job's Online" video

Showing an awareness of the job you are applying for and the sector you will be working in, as well as showing evidence of having researched the company you will be working for can make the difference between a successful application and a failed application. Use the resources below to help you to find out more about the job and the sector:

• 'Your course - what next' - for targeted application advice for your sector. 
• Online Occupational Files - links to information and organisations for your sector of interest.

The library subscribes to a number of business databases that can help you in your job search. Thorough research will ensure your personal statement stands out and matches the needs of the company you are applying to. It may also prompt questions for you to ask at interview. Databases you can use for job seeking include:

Factiva - full text database of both global newspapers and company reports, includes the Financial Times and Wall Street Journal

Business Source Complete - full text database containing over 3,000 business journals, includes company profiles, SWOT analyses and market research reports

Mintel – UK market research reports, useful for overviews of sectors

Find these using Library Search or contact your Academic Liaison Librarians for an introductory session.

Updated: 8/3/2011 By: John McMenamin