You find the job of your dreams but there’s a daunting online application you must complete with detailed information. It asks for your driver’s license number for whatever reason. By the time you find your wallet to retrieve the number and enter it, the company’s website has timed you out. You log back into the system to provide the needed number only to discover everything you wrote and entered before is gone. Three hours totally lost and now you must start over. Here’s a few tips to make it easier for you.
1. Read the job description carefully and use its keywords in the application
Read over the job description carefully, take notes and highlight keywords, as well as look for phrases, such as “project management skills.” Make sure you use these same keywords and phrases when describing your job responsibilities as you fill in the application.
2. Gather all information
To make the process easier, gather the information you will need before going online. Be prepared with your social security number, driver’s license number, schools attended with dates, past employer and supervisor names, addresses, starting and ending dates by month, day and year, and reference names with contact information. There’s nothing more frustrating than to almost be complete with the application and have to locate a piece of information only to return to discover your session terminated and you must start all over again.
3. Be prepared to spend time reformatting or cleaning up
Many online applications allow the option of importing a resume to autofill the application. Be aware often times there can be mistakes or entire pieces missing. You may discover all of your volunteer or organizational activity has been formatted into your previous employment. Dates may be jumbled, bullets turned into strange looking characters, and items placed where they should not be. Be ready to spend time reviewing to ensure you catch any strange formatting issues or typos.
The more complete you are by answering every question and filling out every field, you are demonstrating interest in the job and providing more keywords that could potentially be picked up. The more searchable your application, the more likelihood an HR manager or recruiter will read it. Some recruiters or HR managers will filter out those who do not fill out a particular field. Don’t provide the recruiter an excuse to ignore your application.
4. If there’s an option for loading up a cover letter, create an original
If the online application allows you to submit a cover letter, take the time to craft one specific to the job. Some companies will house your resume in their applicant tracking system, once submitted. You may or may not be able to delete or replace the one already in the company’s system so writing a cover letter might be the best way to tailor your response to the job description. Plus, it also expresses your enthusiasm for the position.
5. Take the time to update your online presence
Make sure your LinkedIn profile and all other social media footprints are up-to-date and match the information on your application. A certification or license mentioned on an application but not actively listed on the licensing organization’s verification online process might kick you out of the running. Take the time to check that your information is consistent and matches up.
6. Print out as you go or save as a PDF file for future reference
You have invested four hours filling out a lengthy application. Before you hit the submit button, make sure you print out a version for yourself. You may want to see if you can create PDFs as you go along in the process, so you don’t have to go back to previous screens, potentially losing information. By keeping copies of what you submitted, this not only helps you with filling out future applications, but also allows you to remember what you wrote in case you receive an interview. Again, highlight the keywords from the job description so you can mention them during the interview.