Applying is hard work. Prepare yourself with a good application that stand out from the crowd and be ready for the interview.
Everybody must seek work at least once in their lives. Since fixed-term contracts are increasing in number, you may have to look for work several times a year. For example in creative industries careers are often advanced project by project.
What documents do I need when applying for a job?
Job application
The job application should show that you have the qualities required in the job advertisement or that you want to develop your skills. You should emphasize those strengths that make you suitable for the position. If you don’t have all the required qualities, you can simply say so. In many jobs a young job-seeker can compensate for the lacking extensive work experience with the right attitude and eagerness to learn new things.
Write a new job application for each job, so you can emphasize exactly those qualities that are required for the job in question. You should not send the same application to many companies.
Explain in your application why you want to be the one chosen for the job. List your work and education history, the type of duties you enjoy and describe yourself as a worker. If you have no previous work experience, you can write about hobbies, positions of trust and other positions with responsibilities.
Don’t be too modest, yet stick to the truth. The recommended length for an application is one page (A4).
Video application
A video is a good way to bring out your personality, since your attitude is well conveyed to the employer via video. Video applications are becoming more common and sometimes employers can ask for a video application instead of a written application. You can also make a video in addition to the written application. It is a good way to stand out from the other applicants.
A good video application is compact. When preparing the video, emphasize the same things as in a conventional application. Also video applications should be made specifically for each job, so that you can effectively explain why you want the job in question.
Pay attention to lighting and the quality of sound on the video. You don’t need any particular equipment since a smart phone is enough for a high quality video. Make sure the video is shot in a light, quiet and peaceful space.
If you cannot shoot and edit the video yourself, ask for help. One of your friends or family is bound to be keen on making videos.
Resume or CV (curriculum vitae) complements the job application. It shows your competence, education and work experience. The information in the CV is presented in chronological order i.e. the most recent information first.
A good CV is flawless, clear and compact. It emphasizes relevant things for the position applied. The recommended length for a CV is not more than two pages (A4). If your work history is not long, it might be worthwhile to mention all possible work experience in the CV. In addition you can tell what else you have done, such as roles in students’ bodies or unions as well as voluntary work or participating in language courses. Download a free CV template! ( https://tyoelamaan.fi/blog/materiaali/ansioluettelomalli/ )
A conventional CV can get lost among other CVs if there are many applicants. You can use e.g. free Canva or Word/Pages templates to create a CV that stands out visually. Keep the job you are applying for in mind while compiling a CV and think what kind of CV would suit the style of that particular job.
Keep the portfolio constantly up to date, particularly in creative industries. Collect work samples and select the best for your portfolio. A portfolio is a good way to convince the employer of your competence already at the stage when you don’t have work experience. It allows you to present your competence and skills more freely.
References are often requested during the job-hunt process. You can ask e.g. your supervisor or teacher for references. Referees should have experience of working with you. Hence, do not ask anyone for references if they are your supervisor on paper only and have not actively monitored your work! Always remember to ask the referee for a permission in advance, before you enter him or her as a referee in the application.
