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Do’s and Don’ts When Applying for Jobs Online

So, you’ve found a temporary or direct job on a job board that sounds appealing. That’s great!

But if you simply click “Submit” and forget about it, you’re not doing much to set yourself apart.

Put yourself in a recruiter’s shoes for a moment. If you contacted a candidate about coming in for an interview, and that individual didn’t even remember the details about your available job, how impressed would you be with him?

To land the job you want, you need to be responsible. Proactive. And diligent. Today, A.R. Mazzotta is sharing our list of “Do’s & Don’ts” to help you stand out when pursuing jobs you’ve found online:

Don’t: Ask for basic job details.

If a recruiter calls you to schedule an interview, he expects you to know the information already provided online. If you respond like a “deer in the headlights” when you get the call, you create the impression that you’re either uninformed or uninterested (neither of which bodes well for your candidacy).

Do: Maintain a job log.

If you’re like most job seekers, you apply to a number of positions online. As your search progresses (and you apply to more jobs), those opportunities can easily start “running together” in your mind. Keep your memory fresh by maintaining a simple job log spreadsheet. Include:

  • The job title, company name and key contact (if provided).
  • The URL for the posting.
  • The date you applied.
  • A brief summary of the available position.

This way, when a recruiter contacts you about your application, you won’t be caught off guard. With the job details at your fingertips, you can speak intelligently about the opportunity and convey your interest.

Don’t: Submit a one-size-fits-all cover letter and resume.

A savvy recruiter can tell in an instant whether or not you’ve tailored your application to his position. If your submission doesn’t directly address his needs, he’s likely to pass you over in favor of a candidate who has clearly put more effort into his application.

Do: Customize your submission.

Your resume should clearly demonstrate how your value applies to a potential employer’s specific needs.  So go the extra mile! Adapt your resume and cover letter to show a recruiter what’s in it for him. Express in bullet points why you feel you’re the best person for the job.

Don’t: Expect a recruiter to “sell” you a temporary opportunity.

Asking a recruiter to email you job details (for an opportunity to which you’ve already applied) or to convince you why you should take the assignment sends the wrong message.

Do: Sell yourself!

Treat every opportunity as though you’re applying for a direct job. Even if a position is “temporary,” you never know where it may eventually lead. Often, employers wind up hiring people who start out as temporary employees.

No matter how many jobs you apply to online, put your best foot forward every time. The extra effort you put into distinguishing yourself and conveying your interest will help you stand out from other applicants – and land the interview!

Looking for your next job?

Work with an experienced recruiter in Connecticut. Whether you’re seeking an administrative, light industrial, executive management or technical position, A.R. Mazzotta can get you on the path to employment today. Go to work immediately on a temporary assignment in Connecticut, while we search for the right direct opportunity for you.

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