The application
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Life at ABL
The application
Below is some helpful advice for preparing an application for any position at Arnold Bloch Leibler.
Self-analysis
A vital first step in getting 'that' job is an honest self-analysis of academic, social and personal achievements. Identifying key strengths and weaknesses will help candidates tailor their CV and covering letter to suit the requirements of the position. Such self-analysis is also critical interview preparation, as the interview process is designed to objectively measure the candidate’s skills against the requirements of the position.
Some key areas to consider include:
- school and university achievements;
- work achievements;
- academic achievements;
- non-academic and social achievements;
- special skills;
- work experience;
- responsibilities and successes;
- career and personal goals;
- strengths; and
- weaknesses.
The purpose of a covering letter is to encourage the reader to take the next step and review the candidate's CV. The covering letter should reflect the contents of the CV and highlight how the candidate's attributes match the requirements of the position.
Candidates should keep the following tips in mind when preparing a covering letter:
- address it to the correct person – make sure the name and title are correct;
- identify the position, using the title as specified in the position description;
- summarise relevant experiences, skills and strengths;
- express capabilities with confidence, but avoid exaggeration;
- ensure the letter has a strong closing that welcomes the opportunity for an interview;
- ensure the letter is signed;
- keep the letter to one page in length with three or four well constructed, concise paragraphs;
- check and recheck the letter for correctness with regard to spelling, punctuation and sentence structure; and
- ensure the final letter has a professional appearance.
Writing a CV
CVs are generally accepted in a variety of formats. The most important thing to remember is that the objective is to attract the attention of a potential employer. When preparing a CV:
- be positive and use action words and phrases;
- submit a CV that is word processed or typed, preferably with plenty of white space and large margins (such attention to formatting detail is not necessary if submitting an application on-line);
- use headings and bullet points;
- be clear and concise, using correct English expression;
- be honest;
- omit needless information;
- ask a trusted friend to review the CV; and
- proofread the CV again and again.
- personal details;
- a brief history of education, including qualifications and achievements;
- a history of work experience (unpaid and voluntary work is also important);
- special skills (such as other languages spoken);
- outside interests;
- names and details of referees; and
- copies of academic transcripts with numeric grade conversions.
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