5 Documents Required For A Job Application

Job searching is not an easy task. They say it is not for the faint-hearted. Truth is, it requires you to have a strategy and to know the dos and donts when searching for a job. You also need to have a clear grasp of the documents employers need to see as part of your applications.

At times, employers may require more than your CV and cover letter.

It doesn’t hurt to send in extra documents like your letter of recommendation or certificates unless the employer specifically states that they need a CV and cover letter only.

Supporting Documents You Need For Your Job Search

Employers require supporting documents to better evaluate a candidate. For most employers a CV and cover letter will be enough but some require more information to get a holistic picture of the candidate. Some may do it to act as confirmation of the information you have given on the CV. For instance requesting transcripts is a way for an employer to confirm whether or not you have graduated.

Here are documents that you need for your job search:

1. A well-written CV

A CV serves as the first contact between you and the employer. It should be a marketing tool for your skills and expertise, and should be tailored to fit the job you are applying for. 

Using a generic CV for every job application may be the reason you are not getting responses from the many jobs you have applied for. There are those key skills that the employer is looking for in that specific position. Have you highlighted that?

If you find it challenging to write a good CV, employ the services of a professional CV writer to create an amazing CV for you.

2. A cover letter

A cover letter is the best way of summarizing your CV in a few paragraphs. Most employers are able to determine whether you are the best fit for the position just by looking at your cover letter. So ensure that you sell your skills to the best of your ability making them want to meet you in person.

3. Letters of Recommendations

A letter of recommendation is another powerful document you can use to get your foot on the door. This is a letter written by your former employer(s) detailing your conduct and your work during the period you worked there. For entry level job seekers and recent graduates, you can get a recommendation letter from your university or college showing that you were a student and now looking for employment. Attaching a recommendation letter is not only wise but a good job search strategy.

4. Educational Transcripts

These supporting documents serve as evidence that you are either a student or you have already graduated. You should attach them with your job application especially in the cases where the employer has specified on what kind of candidate they need- a recent graduate or ongoing student.

5. Portfolio

This is a collection of your work and documents that serve as evidence of your skills and expertise. For instance, if you are a graphic designer, you may want to attach a portfolio of the work you have done. This gives you a competitive edge over someone who did not bother attaching such documents.

6. Writing Samples

Depending on the job you are applying for, you might want to attach a few writing samples for example essays or articles you have done. Employers nowadays seem to take a keen interest in individuals who possess writing skills. For example, if you are a communication professional, writing samples can be your selling point for your skills.

7. Other Certifications

This refers to certificates you may have gathered in the course of time. For instance, you may have a certificate from an accounting training you attended a few months ago; this will be good for you. Attach certificates that are relevant to the job application.

Remember not to send in other documents if the employer specifically says they only need your cover letter. This will just hinder you from getting the job even if you are qualified because it shows that you do not follow instructions.

Do not also send in documents that may be used against you for instance your bank details.

Do you want your application to stand out? Contact our CV writers for a FREE CV Review.