Introduction

In the old days, a letter was the only way...
In the old days, a letter was the only way...
Cc George Hodan publicdomainpictures.net

So, you want to apply for a job? But how do you do it? One way is to read ads in a magazine and on the web. In both cases, you need to put a personal letter together, telling the employer why you are the best for the position.

Sometimes venues are organised, where employers and job seekers run a speed-date – that is, trying to get to know each other as quickly as possible, to see if they can have a future together. Sometimes it's even like an audition, where an employer ask potential applicants to show up and present themselves.

Another modern form is recruitment meetings, which sometime are held by Arbetsförmedlingen. They can either be open to anyone interested or for specially invited.

An older, more tried and tested method is to simply walk around and ask: at the supermarket, the store, dog kindergarten: Do you need someone?

Here you will find out how to succeed – no matter what job you are looking for and how you apply for it!

Task

I can do that!
I can do that!
cc Martin Burrow

How do you write an outstanding job application? The same trick applies regardless of whether you send it electronically or by snail mail. And you are sure your CV is up to date and flawless?

What should you think about if you simply go around to different places looking for a job? Or if you speed date different employers? Is there any recruitment meeting that suits you – and how do you act when you go there?

Where are the jobs? Maybe you should look into your networks, or try to find a hidden job?

Process

Exercise 1

Check out the links:

http://www.aftonbladet.se/jobbresan/article12284894.ab

http://www.metrojobb.se/artikel/7876-7-enkla-tips-f%C3%B6r-ett-perfekt-personligt-brev

Write a letter, where you apply for a job (which job you can decide yourself). Then change letters with a classmate, and give each other feedback – what was good, what do you need to improve?

Exercise 2

When it is a personal meeting, CV and merits are not the most important, but gut feeling. Here the attitude is the most important part.

Work in pairs, and take turns in applying for a job! Either you can decide which jobs you want to apply for, or the person acting as the employer decides. Prepare for fifteen minutes and then meet for 2 x ten minutes.

Give feedback. How was the attitude? What felt good? What could be even better?

Exercise 3

If you go around looking for a job, it's both your merits and the impression you make that counts. If you cannot meet the person in charge, or if they need to think about it, leave a "business card +" – one page with the essential you.

Do one! It should contain:

  • Name, phone number, email address
  • Picture (so they remember you)
  • What you have done before
  • What you can add to the company

Change cards with a classmate. Is there something that could be even better?

 

 

 

Conclusion

Now you are ready to apply for any job in any way!

Make sure to check out the CV and network section for more valuable advice.

Evaluation

  • To write an outstanding job application an presentation of you
  • Being able to present yourself live

Resources

Videos


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