FOR APPLICANTS
Apply correctly with ACTIEF
Whether you are training, studying, taking up your first permanent position or changing jobs - sooner or later, everyone has to deal with the question "How do I apply correctly?". Applying doesn't have to be complicated - with our tips on cover letters, CVs and more, you can make a good first impression.
Application tips
At some point, everyone faces the challenge of writing a job application. A successful cover letter is particularly important. Your aim should therefore be to win over the recruiter the first time they read it.
Of course, the content of your cover letter is crucial, but as we all know, "the eye eats too". That's why you should also pay attention to the design of your application. Pay attention to a uniform, visually appealing layout that is not overdone.
Job advertisements often state the contact person, usually the recruiter responsible, to whom the application should be addressed. However, if this is not the case, avoid using the salutation "Dear Sir or Madam" and instead research the name of your contact person. This signals to those responsible that you are genuinely interested in the job. Alternatively, you are sure to find your contact person on the company's website or in social networks.
A cover letter should always have a common thread. Explain in the introduction why exactly you are interested in this company and this position. The CV is about your strengths and professional highlights. Describe here why you are the best possible candidate. Finally, you can thank them for their interest in you and say that you would be happy to be invited for an interview.
Many applicants make the mistake of using the same cover letter for several job vacancies. However, a standardized cover letter lacks the specific reference to the job advertisement. That's why you should definitely analyze it in advance. What qualifications and skills should I have? It is best to list these points and back them up with your own experience.
Try not to digress from the topic or get lost in details. As a general rule, the cover letter should not exceed one DIN A4 page.
The biggest no-go in an application is still spelling or grammatical errors. So before you send off your documents, you should definitely have someone else proofread them.
You will often be asked about your desired salary and possible starting date. You should not leave these questions unanswered.
Applications that do not contain all the necessary information are often rejected immediately.
This should not be missing from your CV
- Personal information: Name, place and date of birth, citizenship.
- Personal contact details: Address, telephone, e-mail.
- Career history: job position, employer, duration and tasks or areas of responsibility.
- Training, further education and certificates with content related to the position.
- Relevant hard skills for the position sought: knowledge, qualifications and languages.
This does not belong
in the CV
- Irrelevant work experience.
- Unprofessional e-mail address.
- Untruths about gaps in your CV, for example.
- Personal information (parents' occupation, social security number, name of children or partner).
- Excessive salary expectations.
This information "can, but does not have to" be
content of the CV
According to the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG), employers are generally not allowed to ask applicants for a photo. It is therefore not mandatory, but still recommended. It gives your CV a personal touch and can be a real plus point.
Hobbies are often used by recruiters as an indicator of soft skills. As a general rule, social, creative and active things usually go down well. However, hobbies that seem rather passive or could take up too much time and flexibility should not be your first choice for your CV.
