What is it?

A written application refers to resume and application letter writing.
The resume is your own personal marketing document while the application letter is used to introduce your resume to the person at whom it is aimed and to highlight the most important things about yourself so far as the job is concerned, personalizing your resume to a particular job.

Why are they so important?

The purpose of written application is to get you an interview - the resume does not get you a job. It introduces your background and everything you consider important about yourself to the employer, to act as a basis for questions during the interview. It also helps the employer remember you after the interview is over.

How your resume and application letter are presented is as important as what information is in it. A poorly presented, overcrowded, verbose or messy resume/application letter, can destroy the credentials of even the most qualified student. Alternatively, average grades may get more attention from the employer if they are carefully presented.

How to prepare your written application?

To prepare your written application, please refer to the Career Development Track, Question 2, Stage 2.

You can get help for your written application by referring to the following recommended reading materials and websites:

Books

• Perfect CV, How to Get the Job You Really Want
• Write for the Job
• Resume Writing Workbook
• Resume Writing Worksheet Pack
• Writing Away: A Guide to Job Applications
• Resume Guide
• Making your job application work
• Successful CVs in a Week
• Successful English for Job Seekers
  

Videos

• Write, giving full details
• Application Letter in English
• Application Letter in Chinese
  

Websites

• Proven Resume http://www.provenresumes.com/
• Resume Writing Guide by Job Web http://www.jobweb.org/catapult/guenov/restips.html
• College Grad - how to post your resume on the Internet http://collegegrad.com/resumes/reslinks.shtml

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