This is the first step before you start sending out applications. What is your dream job? And what position do you have the right degree for? These things need to be crystal clear from your CV and your motivation letter: an application that’s too vague won’t work.
Also, think about your ideal work environment. Do you want to work for a multinational corporation, or would you prefer a smaller company? Consider the advantages and disadvantages of evening or weekend work.
"}},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"2. Get to know the company culture"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"Make sure you visit any potential employer’s website and check out their LinkedIn, Facebook and other social media profiles. This will help you determine what’s important to the company and what they look for in applicants. Some companies want curious minds, while others place more emphasis on empathy and connection.
Make sure you use this knowledge in your CV and motivation letter. Always avoid sending the same letter to several companies: a good unsolicited application involves tailoring. That way the recruiter can see that you’ve put in time and effort.
"}},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"3. Let your CV shine"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"Cover letters are less likely to be read, so your CV needs to be your best advertisement. One page should be enough to show your worth, so keep it short and simple. Make sure the things that make you suitable for your dream job stand out immediately.
"}},{"componentType":"highlight","title":"Tip:","richBody":{"value":"Put a sentence at the top of your CV that really sums you up. A few words are enough to create an image. ‘Curious marketeer with a head for figures’, for example. A recruiter will instantly understand why you’re applying to them.
"}},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"4. Make a good first impression"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"Managed to get a first interview? Well done! Now it’s time for the next step in your application process. You need to ensure you come across as professional, this includes your hair and clothing. HR professionals are trained to look past your appearance, but they are also only human.
For example, imagine your application is for a customer-facing position. For this type of job, you must always answer with a smile, even if you’re being asked difficult questions. Bear in mind that an interview also tests your interpersonal skills.
"}},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"5. Focus on what’s most relevant"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"Highlight the skills presented in your CV. What makes you suitable for this employer? This is your main mission during your conversation with the recruiter. Don’t give them your entire life story, and don’t make it too complicated.
Focussing on relevant experience is one way to do this, but you can also convince them in other ways. Being well-informed lets them know that you are keen. The key is to convince them you have the right insight.
"}},{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"What now?"},{"componentType":"paragraph","richBody":{"value":"Looking for your first job? This is the perfect time to get a head start on some admin and consider which bank account you want to have your wages paid into.
"},"textLinks":[{"text":"Open your ING Lion Account current account now."}]}]},"complementaryZone":{"flexComponents":[{"componentType":"sectionTitle","title":"Also interesting!"},{"componentType":"cards","cards":[{"componentType":"articleCard","cardType":"article","cardSize":"medium","title":"A better LinkedIn profile","body":"7 tips","image":{"transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/053d722a-8e2f-4abf-be58-ff58a799fab6/youth-6-tips-to-optimise-your-linkedin-profile-1920","type":"image","width":1920,"original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/50ec288b80ab95a6/original/youth-6-tips-to-optimise-your-linkedin-profile-1920.jpg","extension":"jpg"},"date":"2022-02-10","link":{"url":"/en/individuals/my-life/studies-and-work/tips-graduates-create-optimise-best-linkedin-profile"}},{"componentType":"articleCard","cardType":"article","cardSize":"medium","title":"Your first wages","body":"How to negotiate them","image":{"transformBaseUrl":"https://assets.ing.com/transform/774d4be5-8130-40ef-8c43-426eafa05747/youth-negotiating-your-first-wages-1920","type":"image","width":1920,"original":"https://assets.ing.com/m/56112fa872c1dabe/original/youth-negotiating-your-first-wages-1920.jpg","extension":"jpg"},"date":"2022-02-02","link":{"url":"/en/individuals/my-life/studies-and-work/youth-graduates-negotiate-first-salary"}}]}]}}}