Creating an Outstanding Job Application as an Experienced Professional

If you've been looking to make a career move but haven't had much luck in your job applications, it's probably because you haven't been memorable enough in your application. It's easy enough to send out hundreds of applications with a one-size-fits-all cover letter and resume. But guess what? That's exactly what 90% of the other candidates are doing too.

Recruiters will be able to tell at a glance if your application is customised to that particular role, or whether it's a template format with their company name and address pasted on the address line. If it's the latter, chances are they'll dismiss it with the other nondescript applications, particularly if it's a highly coveted position or organisation.

So how do you create a job application that stands out from the crowd?

Rule #1: Make It Personal

Recruiters are human beings, just like you and I. Most of us respond when we feel a personal connection. It's your task to establish a connection with the recruiter when they're reading your cover letter and resume. Share some personal insights into who you are as a person, not just who you are as a potential employee.

What this means is, rather than using the run-of-the-mill corporate jargon, use simple, everyday language that shows you're an approachable, friendly person. You can still be professional without using complex business lingo. While it's important to show your past achievements and track record, it's even more important to shed light into your values as a person and potential employee.

Here's where adding a personal statement at the top of your resume will help you stand out. Use this paragraph to highlight your "why" — what drives you, your philosophy in life and work, and most importantly, what you will bring to the table if you get the job.

Rule #2: Do Your Research

Nothing says you want the job more than doing your due diligence to understand the company. Take time to study their vision, goals and challenges. Better yet, if you have contacts working in the company, buy them coffee and get the inside scoop from them. You can also find out more by reading company reviews by employees. JobStreet's online reviews of companies in Singapore might be a good place to start.

Process the information and think about what you would do to contribute to those goals or overcome those challenges. Then include those thoughts in your cover letter. Your initiative and effort will score bonus points for your application.

Rule #3: Keep It Relevant

Just because you have 10 years of work experience doesn't mean the recruiter wants (or needs) to know it all. Keeping your resume short, concise and relevant is key to standing out. That means not exceeding 2 pages for your resume, regardless of how much experience you have.

Only highlight key achievements that are relevant to the position you're applying for. A brief mention of the rest of your experience will suffice — as long as the recruiter has an overview of your workhistory, the only details that matter are your direct skills and experience that will contribute to the position and company.

Rule #4: Put Yourself in the Recruiter's Shoes

After you've drafted your cover letter and resume, look at them from the recruiter's perspective. If it's too hard for you to be objective, get a few neutral parties to review them and ask them for their honest opinion, if they were considering your application. It's not about what you think; it's about the impression you make on someone who doesn't know you.

Rule #5: Focus on Quality, Not Quantity

Yes, customising each application is tedious and time-consuming, and you will end up with far fewer applications compared to copying and pasting from a template cover letter and resume. That said, if you're serious about getting a job with good prospects, at a prestigious company that everyone else wants to work in, you've got to put in the hours. Why else is it so difficult to get a job at Google? Everyone wants to work there, so they get to be as selective as they want to be.

For more helpful tips and how-to's to aid your job application process and enhance your career growth prospects, check out our career resource page. Bookmark this page to get more updated tips.