Ask first for the named contact you have been given, then give your name and say that you are interested in the position advertised in the Student JobShop at the University of Essex. If you find yourself at the end of an answering machine you can follow the same procedure, but remember to leave a telephone number where you can be contacted. Should the named person be unavailable then ask if there is anyone else who could help you or whether you should ring back at a specified time. Do make notes during your conversation so that you remember times, addresses etc. Please let the JobShop know if the employer says the job has been filled, you are asked for interview or you are successful in getting the job.
Application forms Many employers prefer to use their own applications.
This standardises the information they receive from applications and makes comparison consistent. If you are asked to complete an application form please think carefully about what you will put in each section before starting to fill it in. It is often a good idea to have a copy of your CV at hand when completing such a form because many of the items can be quickly copied across. If the form asks you if you have any other experience or qualifications, which may be useful in a job do not leave this section blank, but use as you would a covering letter to highlight some of the skills that you think would be particularly relevant. Likewise if a form leaves a space for any other information you wish to give in support of your application think carefully about the skills requested in the job and make a relevant comparison to your own transferable skills.