Spam, spam, jobs and spam
The last decade has seen a dramatic shift in the way that we apply for jobs, as traditional careers pages give way to cheaper and more prolific online advertising.
Online jobs boards have perks for employers and jobseekers alike - they're cheaper, have a much faster turn around and, in theory at least, make it easier to track down roles that specifically suit your passion and particular skills.
But is there a the dark side to the rise of online careers sites?
Email and online application forms make it easy for applicants to try their luck by submitting scores of more or less identical applications with little regard to the requirements of specific roles.
As with the proverbial room full of monkeys and typewriters destined to reproduce the entire works of Shakespeare given enough time, the "spam, spam, jobs and spam" approach may eventually lead to employment.
But it's an approach unlikely to endear you to the HR officers forced to spend hours sorting the wheat from the chaff.
In tacit recognition of the inbox-choking effect of online application forms and electronic resumes, big jobs boards are increasingly charging their clients extra to include compulsory questionnaires designed to screen out candidates whose applications consist of little more than a cut and paste job.
So how can ethical jobseekers stand out from the spam? Here's a few tried and tested ideas based on our own experience, as well as feedback from HR types:
- Basic as it may seem, be sure to carefully read the instructions on how to apply. If there is an application pack or position description available, read it closely and always address any selection criteria listed.
- Never send a generic cover letter, and take the time to find out the name and title of the contact person so you can address your letter to them personally. Consider customising your resume to highlight skills and experience most relevant to the position.
- Use the phone! Frequently, the contact person listed in the ad will manage the successful candidate. Calling well in advance of the close date and asking some well considered questions not only helps you to tailor your written application, it can indicate your sincerity and genuine interest in the position.
- Where possible, apply directly to the employer rather than through the "apply now" buttons which appear by default on big generic jobs boards. Where you hang out says a lot - in real life, as well as online. Visit niche jobs boards, subscribe to email lists and ask your friends to send you jobs they think would suit you. If you found out about a job through a trade journal, obscure email list or niche jobs board like ours, be sure to say so!
Have we missed an award winning tip? If you've got any tried and tested techniques that have helped you land a job, then let us know!
