Unlocking Success: Make your Application Stand Out!

Starting the adventure of a new job search often sparks a blend of excitement and apprehension - trust me, having worked as a Recruiter both externally and internally for over 14 years, I have spoken to many candidates at various stages of their career journey and have often felt this myself when it comes to making this important decision.

But you are here, at the very beginning of this exciting journey and now you have made the first step into finding something new - what next? What steps do you take now and more importantly, how can make sure your application stands out in a competitive market?

That is where I am here to help, by using my experience to hopefully share some tips and guidance so that this next step of your journey is as smooth as possible and a lot of this can be easily transferred to any industry and position from those early on in their career, through to seasoned professionals.

So sit back, grab a coffee and maybe a biscuit or two and take a read of the below:

Highlight your Specific Experiences

I could go on here about making sure your CV is updated, correct contact information etc. but let's face it, there are loads of advice out there on CV's so let me be a bit more specific and talk about specifics.

Especially within External Audit, here is the chance to really shout about your experience. We expect that experienced Auditors will have done the usual duties that come with working within this role such as testing controls, reviewing statements etc. but it will be the specifics that we won't know.

As an example, think about including some of the following on your CV:

• Sector exposure - have you specialised in a particular sector, have you had exposure to any listed engagements, what size clients have you had the opportunity to work with?
• Technical Standards - We know that in the past few years, the introduction of IFRS 9, IFRS 15 and IFRS 16 have likely been the main areas for most Auditors but what about the rest? Is there a particular standard you are most proficient in?
• Client Relationships - what has been your involvement with building these relationships? Have you had any involvement with identifying new business opportunities?
• Side Projects - absolutely include details of any side projects or extra duties you have been involved with as you never know if this experience could be the deciding factor between yourself and another candidate

The above is more aimed at those working in, and applying for, External Audit roles but the theory can be easily applied to any role, in any industry - it is just adding in that little bit extra that you think would make your CV stand out to your future employer.

Showcase your Research

As a Recruiter, there is nothing that makes me happier than when I receive an application for a candidate with a supporting cover letter highlighting why they want to apply for this particular role, and what research they have done on our company.

Being honest, I have worked on many roles over the years where we have had an incredible response with a high volume of applications and there have been occasions where the deciding factor from the hiring manager has been which of those candidates took the time to write a dedicated cover letter. So something worth thinking about.

The Power of Resilience

It is normal to experience rejection and setbacks during your job search, perhaps you won't be shortlisted for what you believe is your "dream job" or you don't pass the first round of interviews but remember this: every set back is an opportunity to learn and every rejection is a redirection to the right path.

If you are given feedback, take it on board. If recruiters and hiring managers have gone out of their way to provide you with feedback, this is because we want to help guide you so use this in your next application or interview and hopefully that will have more of a successful outcome.

Connect, Connect, Connect!

Finally, utilise and build your connections. If there is a particular company that you would like to work for, then make sure you are following them and keep an eye on their latest news and developments and reach out to connect with people that currently work there.

The more connections and relationships you build, not only will you learn more about the company and it's culture, but you never know if one of the people you reach out to could be the hiring manager and the fact you have shown an interest and taken the step to reach out, could do wonders for your application if they are then presented with your CV and cover letter.

So here you go, just a small selection of tips and guidance that I do hope you find useful, wherever you are in your journey!

It is over to you now, best of luck with you job seeking journey - you've got this!

Keen to learn more?

Then feel free to connect with me, I love hearing feedback and sharing tips and advice when it comes to recruitment and will be sharing much more content on different areas so if there is anything in particular you would like to hear about - let me know!

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