THE SUCCESSFUL JOB APPLICATION

When searching for the perfect job, it makes sense to match your skills to the vacancy. To obtain a selection of offerings consistent to your wishes, a comprehensive research is needed. Various ways and sources are at your disposal for this. For example, for your own research, you can use

• print media and specialist magazines,
• online job portals,
• Leuphana’s Job Exchange "Current Jobs & Internships"
• specialised job boards,
• company job boards and
• the websites of companies or professional associations.

You can also use your social network, job fairs or recruiting events and communicate your job search. The following yearly events, organised by the Careers Service, provide an opportunity to study corporate contacts:

• The FOR YOUR CAREER Job fair
• Leuphana Recruiting Dinner

The written application documents form the basis for an employer’s decision to invite you to a job interview. A written application usually comprises the following components:

• Covering letter
• curriculum vitae
• Cover and photo (optional)
• Enclosures (such as certificates)

The creation of your written application documents is a time-consuming process. Therefore, you should allow plenty of time for planning. Even the timing of your application should be carefully chosen. Some companies take their time before making a decision. Therefore, you should send your application to the company on time and enquire in advance which positions are vacant, and when. Also, an unsolicited application may be useful if no positions are advertised. The following pages provide information on the important aspects in creating your application file.

Receiving an invitation to a job interview means you have reached the first goal. In the second step, you must now make a good impression in a face-to-face conversation. Here, you can find out more about which parts play a central role in the preparation and during the job interview.