February Tip 6 - Filling out Online Applications - Black Hole?

Do you spend alot of time applying for jobs online? That's the new recruiting model right?
Yes and No. Similar to my last post about 80% of jobs not ever being advertised, being a candidate for the 20% that do get posted, can mean a very low yield for most applicants.

Applying online alone will not be enough. Try to identify someone within the hiring organization to refer / recommend you as a candidate. While this may not always be possible, research using LINKED IN and people research databases like Zoominfo.com, can help identify contacts. That said, you will likely have to fill out the online application at some point in the process. Always prepare your cover letter and resume before you got started is because you don't want to time out of the system before you complete your application

Getting Started

Create your account on the company's website. If possible, create a free email account that contains your full name, or something “branded” to you. Stay away from “cute” email address and don't use your work email address. Most online applications require personal information, such as name, address, telephone numbers and reference contacts. One of the keys to improving your chances of getting called for an interview includes completing all the application fields.

Keywords

Most Companies utilize Applicant Tracking systems to screen resumes and select candidates with the right keywords in their resume. It can be a bit of a guessing game but safe to start with the job description and make sure you have addressed the stated requirements within your documents. Keywords to focus on are typically job titles, business functions, responsibilities, required strengths, degrees or diplomas, and computer applications.

Salary

If the application allows you to write in any response, we recommend leaving an open ended response such as “to be discussed” or “negotiable” In the case where the form forces you to put in a response you can handle it in a few different ways, all of which can pose a problem. You can write $0 and the screener will know you are avoiding the issue and may screen you out based on that. You could try and inputting a range that includes your bottom line number and hope that the position is within those parameters. Here you run the risk of underselling yourself. You can write in what you were or are making currently, especially if you have insight from someone inside the company or significant research gives you confidence that the number you are entering is in their target range. None of these options is ideal, and all have the risk of screening you out. In a perfect world we suggest avoiding the “black hole” of the online application and instead find internal contacts to refer you directly to the hiring manager.

Attaching Resume and Cover Letter

Many online application processes allow you to upload attachments. Use your formatted resume for uploading here, as well as your cover letter. In most cases, you can attach documents in Microsoft Word format or in PDF format. Consider using PDF format if you have formatting that you want to preserve in your documents. Always attach a cover letter, even if the application says it's optional. Recruiters prefer to see a cover letter and your cover letter gives you another chance to use key words and phrases that match the job description as well as another chance to brand yourself.

Including Links to your Online Profile

Most Recruiters are going to look for you on LINKED IN, so it is recommended that you have a strong online profile. This is another opportunity to highlight keywords. Make it easy for them to find you by providing a link directly to your profile. It goes without saying, but make sure your resume and LINKED IN profile are consistent. If you have been published or have had any positive media attention, include links to those in your resume and/or cover letter.

Confirmation and Follow Up

Once you complete your application, double check your email to ensure you receive a confirmation email that your application is accepted by the system. If you don't get a confirmation email and the application process says you should have received one, contact the employer's help desk. Mark your calendar to follow up on your application within the week. When you contact the company, refer to your application number or an identifying number for your job submission.