For young applicants

Tips for your application

Your application should include the following:

1. Cover letter

The cover letter is about the length of one A4 page and is written in a commonly used font, e.g. Arial or Times New Roman, size 11. It should be neat and should not have any stains. The following is essential:
- Complete information about the sender (name, address, phone number, email address if necessary)
- Complete and correct information of the recipient (company address).

Be precise with your writing and include the information you want to convey! In a logical and structured way, explain what qualifies you for the open role. Back up your points with results and events from your career. Describe the ways in which the role and the company that you are applying to are suited to you. Ideally, you should also include some information about your volunteering activities or hobbies. Do your best to write in good German, with correct spelling and grammar. Formulate your ideas in short main clauses, so that the person receiving your application can read your cover letter easily and without the need for questions. If you are unsure, have your application read by someone that you trust.

2. CV

In a table, describe your working history in terms of timing and content, without any gaps. All information included must be true. Your CV and cover letter are the first samples of your work, so they should be convincing both in terms of content and form. So make sure to work carefully. Nowadays, the most common way to format the table in your CV is with the current or most recent educational or working role at the top. A picture of you in portrait orientation, approx. 4.5 x 6 cm is the perfect addition to the personal information in your CV.

3. References

References are "evidence" of your previous responsibilities, services, practical experiences and qualifications. They should be part of any application. They are very important for the person receiving your application. For this person, an application without references is an issue. If you are missing any references, explain why.

The references in your application are part of your application documents. They come after the cover letter and CV. In the same way that you presented the roles in your CV in chronological order, you should also make sure your references are in the correct chronological order. As well as educational and professional references, you can include internship certificates and all other qualification documents.

 

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