Ready to apply

When you have found the role that you are looking for, it is time to make an application. Depending on the application process, you might need to complete a CV, cover letter, application form and/or psychometric tests.

If you have questions about equality matters relating to your work experience applications, the careers and employability service guidance can help you through the recruitment process.

Don’t forget you can always pop into the employability hub in the Management School building and speak to one of our dedicated team if you would like support or have any questions.

Using AI in applications

Using AI to assist with job applications can streamline the process, tailoring your resume, and optimising cover letters for specific roles. AI tools can help identify key skills employers are looking for, suggest improvements, and even provide feedback on the clarity and impact of your writing.

However, it’s important to use these tools wisely—over-reliance on AI might result in generic applications or miss the nuanced personal touch that employers value. Always review AI-generated content to ensure it accurately reflects your unique strengths and experiences.

Your CV

Having a strong CV is really important in a competitive market.

• A CV is your personal marketing tool, so it needs to be a summary of your relevant experience and skills, which will persuade an employer to interview you.
• It is a personal document and people will have different opinions. Ultimately it’s your CV, and you have the final decision about the presentation and content.
• A CV is sent in response to a job advert asking you to send a CV and covering letter or is sent by you as a speculative application. A speculative application can help you to find opportunities before they are advertised or may even persuade an employer to create a new job

The following resources can help you get started.

CareerSet

As a student of the management school you have access to CareerSet. This platform empowers students to independently enhance their CVs, cover letters, and LinkedIn profiles via personalised, actionable feedback. You should make use of CareerSet prior to attending careers appointments so you can have a more detailed discussion about your aspirations and less time talking through the basics of your CV!

Cover letter

A covering letter highlights your relevant strengths and motivation for the job and organisation you are applying to, and markets you effectively by complementing your CV.

Your covering or cover letter is a polite and professional introduction that accompanies your CV when applying for an advertised vacancy or enquiring about potential job opportunities in a company.

It builds on two or three key pieces of information within your CV and expands them by explaining in more depth how those skills and experiences match the job role.

Use the covering letter to show you are keen to work for the company by demonstrating that you have researched the organisation thoroughly.

Here are some supportive resources to help you write a great cover letter:

References

Who you use as your referee is an important consideration. Most employers will expect you to provide them with two referees, who will typically be contacted at the time you are offered the job. However, application forms often ask for this information up front.

Make sure you ask the permission of anyone you are going to use as a referee and check their contact details are correct. They will need to look out for the reference request, which will often be sent by email, and reply swiftly, as this could delay your start in a role if they do not.

It is also a good idea to send them information about the job you are applying to, so they have some context.

Application forms

Application forms can be the first step in some recruitment processes and can help employers decide who to invite to the next stage of their process.

As an applicant you need to prove you:

• Have an understanding of the role and have skills and abilities they have asked for in the job criteria
• Have genuine motivations for applying
• Are a good ‘fit’ for their organisational culture and values

Application forms differ from employer to employer, but often include requests for information on the following areas:

• Personal details
• Education
• Employment history
• Supporting statement

Some employers also ask a range of questions that could be based on your motivation, your strengths and competency to do the job well and commercial awareness questions.

Here are some great resources to support you:

Interviews

You’ve made it to the interview stage. Congratulations. Being invited to an interview means that the recruiter feels that you have potential to fulfil the role on offer. They want to gain an insight into your personality, understand your motivations for applying and assess your experiences, your behaviours and skills.

Don’t forget you can always pop into the Employability Hub in the Management School building and speak to one of our dedicated team if you would like support or have any questions.

Assessment centres

Assessment centres give employers a chance to assess you against their criteria through a range of relevant tasks and activities. A typical assessment centre is normally hosted by the company at their premises, the duration of which can range from a couple of hours to an all day event.

Here are some resources to help you understand assessment centres further and practise some of the tests used:

Networking/Social Media (Linkedin)

Not all organisations advertise their vacancies, many recruit through speculative applications. If you are interested in working for particular organisations you may need to contact them and ask about their opportunities.

Click here for guidance and support with Networking, Social Media and Speculative Approaches.