On average, around 90 graduates apply for every graduate position advertised. How do you stand out from the other 89? From a recruiter’s perspective, there are a few ways to get your application noticed amongst the competition. Here are some tips from those who assess the applications at Enterprise.
Detail
If we receive an application that hardly has any information on it, the chances are it’ll go straight into the reject pile. We won’t know that you interned in New York as a sales executive in between semesters unless you mention it. Go into detail about the skills you learnt in your previous roles, and include information about specific achievements.
Don’t waffle
Go in to detail, but don’t include things just for the sake of it. We don’t need to know about the two week holiday to Thailand a couple of years ago where you ‘found yourself’ – keep it relevant and professional. There is nothing worse than an application form that is never ending and chances are the person reading it won’t finish it. There is a happy medium: you need to include enough to pique interest and show you’re appropriate for the role.
Relevant experience
Research the job you’re applying for. If it’s a position that entails customer service, include any past employment that highlights these skills. It’s great if you’ve had a lot of work experience in the past, but if you’re applying for a management role there’s no need to mention that you used to babysit your neighbour’s children. Matching your experience to the job specification shows the employer that you have put thought into your application.
Grammar and spelling
Mistakes will instantly put us off when we’re reading an application. Look over the form once it’s complete and get someone else to double check that it makes sense. A fresh pair of eyes is never a bad thing when it comes to grammar and typos. Be consistent with the formatting as well. Is half of it presented in bullet point form and the other half in prose? Either is fine, but you need to pick a style and stick to it.
Be honest
It’s true what they say, honesty is the best policy. Don’t state on your application form that you gained a first in your business studies degree when you actually got a 2:2. You’ll eventually need to provide evidence to prove this. Needless to say if you are found to be dishonest on an application form you could be rejected from the process.
Specifics
When we are reviewing applications at Enterprise we look for certain ‘buzzwords’ that confirm the candidate has the skills required to be a management trainee. We’re keen on those with customer service and sales experience as well as leadership qualities. Teamwork, flexibility and initiative are also important. If you have this experience be sure to emphasise it, it’s your best chance of getting through to the next stage of the interview process.
If you think you’d be a great addition to our team then take a look at our graduate management trainee opportunities and apply.
