Application Tips

by Chandra Drevjany, Principal and Co-Founder of eLoft Careers ​​​

Follow these application tips to support a successful job search.

• Referral by an existing employee
  • A referral by an existing employee will be the most effective way to get your resume noticed!
  • After applying to a job following the method outlined in the job ad (e.g. email, online), check your networks!
  • Many companies have referral bonuses to incent employees
  • Referrals by internal employees are more likely to be called for an interview over applicants who apply ‘cold’

• Online (e.g. Job Board or Company Website)
  • Typically go into a database or resume scanning technology like an ATS (Applicant Tracking System)
  • Keywords are paramount; minimize bolding, special bullets, characters and graphics
  • Keep pertinent details (i.e. contact information) out of the header/footer
  • Follow formatting and application instructions precisely!

• Email
  • Follow the instructions in the job ad
  • Assume it will be uploaded/scanned into an ATS
  • Create one document that includes your cover letter as page one and your resume on the following page(s)
  • Include a short introduction email OR paste your cover letter into the body of the email

• Hand Delivery (In Person)
  • Print your cover letter and resume on high quality paper and enclose in a letter size envelope
  • When possible, address the envelope to a specific person and ask for them directly
  • Dress to impress!
  • Be prepared for an impromptu interview!

• Regular (Snail) Mail
  • Less and less common in our digital world
  • If the job ad advises to apply via regular mail then it is acceptable to do so (otherwise apply via email)
  • To beat the competition and track delivery, consider paying for an express delivery option

​