60 likes | 77 Views
Learn how to tailor your application by highlighting your qualifications and skills to match the specific position you are applying for. Be honest, prepare well, and showcase your relevant experience. Avoid common mistakes and increase your chances of success.
E N D
Tailoring The Application for the PositionJay E. NoelDirector, California Institute for the Study of Specialty CropAgribusiness DepartmentCalifornia Polytechnic State UniversityPresented atAmerican Agricultural Economics Association Annual MeetingJuly 24, 2006
Tailoring the Position • “Tailor” means to highlight your education, training, and experience to the specific qualifications of the position to which you are applying. • Always be honest, when you tailor your application, do not claim skills or experience you do not have. Unless the vacancy announcement lists “preferred, desired, or helpful” the qualifications listed are required
Preparation is a Key to Success • The job market is very competitive and you probably will not be the only qualified candidate for a position. The deciding factor may simply be the way you present your skills and qualifications relevant to the position • Are You Right For the position? Evaluate yourself-Don’t apply for a position thinking if you get it, you will change it into what you’d like it to be. • What are your strengths? What are your weaknesses? • What are your short-term and long-term goals? • Formulate responses by asking the question: "Why should they hire me?" • Concentrate your search on positions for which you are competitive.
Tailor your Application to the Organization • Is there a good fit between you and the organization? • Visit the organization’s website • Make an effort to understand more about the focus of the organization: Its culture, vision, and mission. • Good idea to visit with someone, if possible, who works in the organization. • Once you know what is important to the organization emphasize any experiences that would be compatible with the organizations values.
Tailor the Application to the Specific Position • Some general principles: 1. Your application is YOU. 2. Use the position description as your guide- respond to it. 3. Showcase your skills relative to the position description. 4. Communication and Interpersonal skills are important to every organization
Some Don’ts • Ignore Instructions • Guesstimating dates and such • Failure to Provide References • Submitting Incomplete Applications • Embellishing or Lying