Bentworth was recently proud to launch our graduate intern program. We have been humbled and overwhelmed by the amount of interest we have received to date.
As we have reviewed applications, it has lead us to consider a number of general tips for graduates, which may be helpful when putting together applications and moving into the job market.
When applying:
- Tailor your CV and covering letter. Every job has different requirements and your CV and covering letter should be written in such a way that you highlight the qualifications / skills that address these specific requirements.
- Take your time. Of course you need to get the application in before the closing date, but you should expect to take a day or two to redraft your CV and to complete the application form.
- If an application is requested online, draft the application first. Once you are happy with your application you can then move on to copying it into the online form.
- Make sure you read and understand the question being asked. If you are being asked about your skills, interests and abilities, your answer should be tailored to addresses the requirements of the position. For example, “I enjoy reading / going to the cinema” is not relevant when applying for a job as a petroleum engineer. Your interests should reference things that are directly relevant to the position you are applying for. If for some reason a question is not applicable to you then you can write “Not applicable”
- It’s not just about your qualifications. Be aware that future employers are looking to see that you have the soft skills to become a valuable member of the team. This means demonstrating that you can be a team player, that you are willing to work your way up the organisation as you learn and your experience grows. Write your responses in such a way that demonstrate you possess some of these softer skills.
- Don’t use slang or Sheng in your application or in the interview. If you are not comfortable speaking only in English during the interview, request that you be allowed to answer the questions in Swahili.
- Before you apply ensure that you understand the industry that you are applying to work in and that you really want to be there.
- Be prepared as a graduate to start small, work hard and trust the process. Employers like to feel like you are willing to contribute to something bigger than yourself. Most Chief Executives did not become so straight out of university.
- Apply for jobs that appeal to you for more than the pay cheque. Employers want to know that the learning you gain from a position is as important to you as the pay cheque.
- Spell check your application. An application that has bad spelling and grammar is likely to go to the bottom of the pile.
- Utilise the resources that are available to you. There are lots of free resources online that provide tips on writing CVs and putting together job applications which can help with making your application stand out.
Good luck!