Applying for jobs
When applying for jobs, you should find out who the employer is, what they are looking for, and how you fit into what they do. We have collected some helpful advice and inspiration on how you can get closer to your dream job.
Book a CV and application check
You can have your CV and application checked by a career consultant over the phone. The conversation takes 15 minutes and can be booked online. You can prepare yourself for the conversation by reading and following the recommendations for CVs and applications, which are found above.
Book now (Danish)Outline your skills, find inspiration in DM’s CV template and application guide, prepare yourself for a job interview, and use DM’s career counsellors. This is some of the advice that can help you on the way in your job search.
Templates for CVs and applications
In order to write a good application or CV, it’s important to understand what purpose they each serve and how an employer uses them in the hiring process. There is no answer to how exactly they should look, but there are certain things to be aware of that work better than others. Here are some of the recommendations that can help you along your way.
Your application is where you write yourself into the job and workplace, and explain why you are the right candidate. The application is your sales pitch and is set apart from a CV by showing how you can be a part of solving the various tasks for which you would be responsible. Describe how you would solve the tasks in practical terms and give concrete examples.
See application guide for more in-depth explanation (Word in Danish)
Where the application is your sales pitch, your CV is the guarantor that you can do what you say. Around 80 percent of employers read a CV first, according to Ballisager’s most recent recruitment analysis, so it’s important that you make it clear and easy to read, and that you highlight your skills from the beginning.
The majority of CVs follow the classic chronological model, but for some it can be relevant to use a model organised by skills. See an explanation of this below.
Classic CV
You should use the classic CV when your skills can concretely be connected to your work experience. While using the template as a starting point, you can add a personal touch with alternative layouts, animations, and graphics. But put yourself in the audience and consider how your choice of form can strengthen your message, rather than distracting from it.
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Skill clarification
When you are getting started applying for jobs, it can be an advantage to first outline your skills and to attach words to them. When you’ve verbalized your skills, it’s easier to use them as reasoning in your application.
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References and recommendations
As a part of your job search, it is important that you have your references and recommendations lined up. You will often be asked about them in the application process or in connection with a job interview.
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LinkedIn and networking
Use LinkedIn to create visibility for potential employers or cooperating partners. DM can give you eight pieces of advice on how to actively use your LinkedIn profile in your career.
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Job interviews
You’ve been invited to a job interview because you are qualified and have an interesting profile that a company would like to hear more about. At the job interview, the company will have the opportunity to evaluate your personality as well as the chemistry between you and your potential employer. By preparing for this you can give a persuasive impression.