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Scoring the interview for the job that you want shouldn’t have to be rocket science. Sometimes you can score that interview by making a simple phone call. There are several ways that people go about trying to get an interview. The methods of achieving one may vary by company. It’s best to know what the company’s application process is before taking your first step.
In general, when a company is hiring they post an ad in the newspaper or on an online job bank. How you may contact them is usually included in the ad as well. You don’t want to email a resume to a company that’s requesting that you walk in with your resume. You also don’t want to call a company that requires a faxed resume etc. Ignoring their initial contacting information will guarantee that you will not get that interview because you have already proven that you cannot follow simple directions.
Sometimes, you may get a job lead from a friend before the job has actually been posted. If that is the case, you can either ask the friend to give the employer your resume and cover letter. If your friend does not actually work where the lead came from, you can try calling about the position and ask what the application procedure is.
There are four general methods of applying for a job, and they include the following basic methods:
Sending Your Resume & Cover Letter
Some companies prefer that you mail them your resume. For this type of approach, it’s best to include a cover letter with your resume.
The cover is a basic letter that describes the position that you’re interested in and a few details of your qualifications and skills. It’s basically your lead in to your resume.
Before writing the cover letter, you should know to whom the letter is to be addressed.
You don’t want to begin a cover letter with “Dear Sir or Madam” or "To whom it may concern". It shows that you’re not prepared, and that you’re not looking for a specific position with their company, but any job that you can get your hands on. Basically, it’s disrespectful to your prospective employer.
Emailing Your Resume
Emailing resumes is becoming a common way for recruiters to get resumes. Most companies offer this method as an alternative to others. However, there are a few tips on how you should go about it.
Attach your resume as a 'Word' (.doc) document or .PDF file. These are the most common formats and what most companies will accept.
The subject line should read like the following: Smith, John (clerical position). This will make it easy for the recruiter to know who the email is from, and what it pertains to. It also ensures that your email will actually be read.
Sometimes there are some specific methods for addressing an emailed resume. Some companies have certain subject line requirements so be sure to follow them. If your company wants you to paste your resume, do not send attachments because your email will be deleted right away.
Faxing Your Resume
Again, you’ll need to include a cover letter when you fax in your resume.
If you are not using your own fax machine, be sure to include your proper contact information. The rules for your cover letter are exactly the same as for mailing your resume. More about cover letters will be provided a later in this guide.
Now read more about Getting Your Job Interview
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