What should your approach to the job application process be?

Admittingly, creating job applications is very time-consuming, repetitive, and boring. And what’s worse, there are times when all you are getting for your diligent work is rejection letters. So, what can you do to make the best use of your limited job-searching time?

Here are five recommendations that could make a difference and improve your results.

• Be very clear on why you are leaving your present position and what type and level of new position you seek.  Maybe you are happy with your current role but unhappy with your current employer, then it is possible that you are not sure you must leave, and your search is a want, not a need.
  
• Don’t create “just in case” or exploratory applications. Your reason for leaving and the urgency to act will influence how you approach applying to jobs, which will influence the type of responses you receive. So be sure that you are genuinely job searching and not exploring your options.
  
• Research the job, compensation, and company before you apply. Then apply only to the requisitions that match your career goals. Do not create “why not or just incase case applications!” Try to ascertain whether the company’s expectations for success in the role align with your ability to deliver and be a success in the role based on your skills, career expectations, and personal strengths.
  
• Do not apply to jobs based on the job title alone. Job descriptions for positions with similar job titles can vary tremendously. So it is important that you read the entire job description carefully. Compare the jobs you are interested in with similar titles to decide on a proper match. Focus on companies and jobs where there is symmetry between your value system and the company’s values.

• Above all, create fewer applications and more complete applications. Creating an untidy or unfinished application can doom your applications at the company for the current job you are applying to and any other position you may apply for in the future.
  
• Job searching is very boring and time-consuming, too, so be prepared to spend considerable time doing it to achieve the desired outcome. Try to maintain a light, thoughtful approach throughout the process since job searching is probably the most un-fun thing you will do this year.