How do I create a good application?
As you embark on the next steps in your career journey, it’s essential to focus not only on finding roles that resonate with your aspirations but also on crafting applications that effectively showcase your strengths and potential.
Here's how you can embark on this exploration using the services and programs offered at U of T and beyond.
1. Research the organization - Informational Interviews
2. Consider your skills and what you bring to the role
3. Tailor your resume and cover letter
Want to dig deeper? Try this activity:
1. Research the organization
Before you send your resume and cover letter, do some homework on the company you are applying to. Visit its website, social media pages, and news articles to learn about its mission, vision, values, products, services, culture, and achievements. This will help you tailor your application to its specific needs and goals and show it that you genuinely want to work for it.
If you know someone who works there, consider reaching out to ask them some questions about the organization and their experience working there. Do you need some tips on how to approach an informational interview?
Learn more here about informational interviews.
2. Consider your skills and what you bring to the job
During the job search process, it is important to reflect on your unique skills a nd how they align with the requirements for of the jobs you are looking for. Review the module on Identifying Your Skills to Build Your Resume: By matching the skills the employer is seeking, you can clearly link them with your skills.
Take a look at the job you are interested in and ask yourself:
- What are the employer's needs?
- What skills do you have in relation that match that need?
- What were the related specific work experiences that can show that?
Want to dive deeper?
Try this activity with a fillable to help you connect your skills and competencies to the jobs you are applying to.
Activity: Connect what employers require to your skills and experiences (T-Chart)
3. Tailor a resume and cover letter
Make a Resume & Cover Letter to Fit Each Role You Are Applying to - Tailor your resume and cover letter for each application to highlight your most relevant experiences and skills. Customized applications stand out more and show the employer that you have a specific interest in their organization, rather than sending generic applications to multiple employers.
Use our Resume and Cover Letter Module as a resource to help you write a great application!
Searching for more resources to support your job search?
Check out these Career Start links about the job search & interviews: