According to branding expert Ricki Nielsen, a good solicited application generally consists of three sections: the motivation for applying for the job, examples of how one would approach the job and its tasks, and a description of who one is as a person.
The Motivation for Applying
Essentially, motivation can stem from either the company as a workplace or from the job and its advertised tasks for a candidate. When explaining why you're interested in the job and its tasks, avoid merely stating, "That sounds exciting."
Instead, articulate why it excites you and what aspects of the role appeal to you. Similarly, when expressing your desire to work for a particular company or institution, elaborate on why you're drawn to being part of that specific environment.
Examples of Your Work
Through your research, in addition to the job description itself, you've identified the tasks you can expect to tackle and the challenges the company faces. Be specific in your proposals for how you intend to approach the role.
Who You Are
Now, it's crucial to convey to the recipient who you are both professionally and personally. Describing yourself can be challenging, so it's beneficial to seek input from others instead. Ask a few former colleagues, for instance, to characterize you as both a person and a colleague. You can then utilize their descriptions to begin, for example:
"My former colleagues describe me as proactive, so you can expect to encounter someone who excels at initiating processes..."
What Should It Look Like?
- Company Name and Contact Person
Ensure you address the application to the designated contact person mentioned in the advertisement. - Heading
Give your application an attention-grabbing title. This helps the employer remember you and your message more easily. - Why You
Concisely and precisely state why you're applying for this job. What motivates you about the position, and why have you chosen this particular company? - Your Offer
Briefly outline what you can bring to the table in terms of fulfilling the advertised job and addressing the tasks it entails. - Addressing Requirements
Directly address the requirements listed in the advertisement and demonstrate how your professional skills align with them. - About Yourself
Provide a brief overview of yourself and your personal attributes, giving the reader insight into who you are as a person. - Conclusion
Conclude your application by expressing your interest in the further process and your commitment to actively following through with your application. - Remember..!
Include your signature, name, and reference to any attached annexes or additional documents. - Proofread
Take the time to thoroughly proofread your application. A surprising number of applications contain careless errors, which can signal to the employer that you haven't invested much effort into your application.
