Application is a significantly important aspect of work integrated learning (WIL). Wendy Syfret, a Melbourne based writer, editor, and author tweeted (emphases in bold added) a thread on 18 April 2022, although not specific to WIL, but nevertheless deemed of value: “In my (digital media) career I've hired a lot of people and seen a lot of good/not good applications. People always make the same mistakes that knock them out of consideration. Often it's dumb/little things, but in a crowded field they matter. They include:
- Not reading the WHOLE job description. Sounds obvious but people embed small tasks at the bottom of copy to not only test your skills, but your ability to pay attention to a full brief.
- Not looking for a direct email to someone in the company. Don't apply via LinkedIn unless they directly say so. Again, often at the bottom of the JD [job description] there is a contact and only those applications get looked at. Sometimes this isn't possible, but at least try!
- Not updating their resume to lightly reference the job ad. Yes I know it takes time but seriously, you can change ONE line to show it's not a copy and paste job.
- Not having a website. Everyone has a LinkedIn and they are annoying to navigate. A simple, clean personal website with your bio, work examples, contact details makes you look like a functioning adult. You can cheaply make one with a web builder, don't overthink it.
- Lacking experience? I hear you. Try have a personal project to talk about. Not everyone has resources to put into unpaid efforts (fair) but think about non-work parts of your life where you might have gathered relevant skills. Ran the uni magazine? Work with an activist group?
- BUT, don't tell me about anything that happened in high (or primary) school! Unless you were Betty Cooper breaking national stories, it makes you look like you're living in the past and haven't been up to anything.
- Don't spend too much time explaining why you're passionate about what you do or love this work. If you're applying for a job I'm going to assume you have a passingly interested (or are willing to fake it). A couple of lines is enough, I don't need a "why I write" essay.
- If you made a point about being good at social media or design, make sure your personal social accounts look good. I hate the idea you need to have 100k followers to get a job (you don't) but don't you can demonstrate a level of style and skill through your own accounts.
- Don't show unpublished work. Even if it's amazing, my first question is: why didn't this run? Rather send me pitches/projects/ideas you think would be relevant to this role. Or, again, send cool personal work (a few great TikToks or Instagram explainers can go a long way)
- Everyone says they are good communicators, punctual and quick learners. Don't include super general statements. Be specific and demonstrate what you're uniquely good at. Maybe you're amazing at spotting fresh talent or trends? That's more valuable than knowing you can use Slack.”
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