In this first episode, Victoria and Mary discuss essential tips for job applications, helping candidates avoid common mistakes and improve their chances of standing out. From tailoring applications to focusing on key details, they cover best practices and share their recruitment insights.
Victoria Walker, Sales Director at CK Group. Victoria holds an MChem in Chemistry and has worked in scientific recruitment since 2010. A multiple award-winning recruiter, she brings over a decade of expertise in the STEM job market.
She’s joined by Mary Bolt, who has a wealth of experience in life science recruitment. Mary has been with CK Group since 2015 and previously worked in the lab at Teva Pharmaceuticals, giving her a strong understanding of both the industry and what employers are looking for.
Key Topics Discussed:
Targeted Applications:
- The importance of focusing on roles that align with your experience and career goals.
- Avoiding the “panic apply” mentality, where candidates apply to any job without a clear sense of direction.
Personalising Your Applications:
- How to explain your qualifications and career transitions when applying for roles outside your usual scope.
- The value of making clear any relocation or commuting considerations in your application to avoid being discounted.
Understanding Job Requirements:
- Pay attention to key details such as working hours, shift patterns, location, and company expectations.
- If you’re applying for a role that involves shift work or a challenging commute, make sure to mention how you can manage those aspects.
Log Your Applications:
- Keeping track of your applications using a simple spreadsheet or tracker to avoid duplicate submissions and ensure your CV is represented properly.
Following Up:
- The benefits of following up after submitting an application to show your interest and initiative. This can make you stand out, particularly if there are multiple candidates for the same position.
Cover Letters and Application Forms:
- The importance of providing a tailored cover letter when required and paying close attention to application form fields.
- Filling out application forms completely, even when some information overlaps with your CV, shows attention to detail and increases your chances.
Attention to Detail:
- Double-checking for any spelling or grammatical mistakes, especially in your CV, job titles, or contact information.
- Ensuring your email address and job titles reflect professionalism, as small errors can easily turn off a recruiter.
Takeaway Tips:
- Tailor each application to the specific role and highlight why you’re the right fit for it.
- Track your applications to avoid duplications and confusion.
- Always follow up and be proactive if you’re genuinely interested in a role.
- Pay attention to the job ad’s specific requirements (location, working hours, etc.) and mention if there are any logistical concerns you’ve already addressed.
This podcast is part of our series Your Job Search Series – more podcasts coming soon
