Writing a job application challenges your creativity, as the format is often open-ended. You need to stand out from other applicants—but going overboard with gimmicks or trying too hard to be unique rarely delivers results. So what kind of job application brings out your strengths and makes the recruiter take notice?
Craft a Clear and Catchy Headline
The headline gives the reader a preview of what’s to come. A straightforward approach is to title the application with the job you're applying for, but you can also try grabbing attention with a more engaging option. A well-written headline draws the reader in and encourages them to read further.
No need for clickbait—but you can shape your title to include, for example, a promise of what you can bring to the role or a brief mention of your strongest selling point.
Make Your Opening Count
The first sentences of your application determine whether it’s worth reading on. A recruiter might go through hundreds of applications and skim many of them quickly. That’s why your main message should be clear from the start. Imagine saving all the important information for the end—what if the reader never makes it that far?
You need to grab attention and spark interest right away. Consider what hook you can use to pull the reader in. You may start by introducing yourself, but avoid stating the obvious. Get straight to the point and cut out unnecessary small talk: your gender, age, or street address shouldn't matter in the selection process.
Clarify Your Goals
In a job application, it’s important to clearly express your skills and motivation. Briefly explain why you're applying for the job, what interests you about it, and most importantly—why the employer should choose you.
You can even refer to yourself as a future team member, which shows confidence in your suitability for the role. Don’t be overly modest—the purpose of the application is to highlight your full potential!
Demonstrate Your Skills
Don’t just list personal traits—explain what you can actually offer for the role. Saying you're skilled isn't enough; you need to back it up with concrete examples. Highlight a few key achievements and relate them directly to the position you're applying for. Describe how others perceive you at work or share the results you've achieved in previous roles.
Tailor Your Application to the Job
Avoid being too general. Focus on what’s most relevant to the specific job. Getting to know the employer helps you understand what they value and expect from applicants.
You can use a general template to make applying easier, but always adapt the application to match the role you’re seeking. Employers appreciate it when you’ve done your research and understand their values, strategy, brand, or services.
Match the Tone of the Job Ad
Pay attention to the style of the job advertisement: if it’s particularly relaxed, you can likely take a more casual tone in your application as well. That said, keep humor in check and adjust it based on your impression of the organization’s culture.
Don’t Overdo It
Are you a proactive and responsible team player who’s flexible and goal-oriented? Great! But ask yourself—do you stand out with those descriptions? Likely not, as many people use the exact same terms. Those qualities are basic expectations in the workplace. Generic phrases and clichés don’t tell the employer anything unique about you.
Still, there’s no need to swing to the opposite extreme. Overly clever phrasing can come off as trying too hard and may hide your actual message. The recruiter might feel like you’re using style to compensate for lack of substance. The witty lines or exaggerated claims you find impressive may not charm the reader the way you expect. It’s better to be clear and authentic.
Avoid Repetition
Your CV speaks for itself, and there's no need to copy large chunks of the job posting. Keep your language concise and your application to a reasonable length. Two pages is the absolute maximum—but often, half a page is enough.
Since space is limited, focus on the essentials. Don’t repeat what’s already in your CV or copy the job ad word for word. The employer already knows what they’re looking for—what they want now is to hear about you. If you refer to the job ad, relate your skills directly to what they’re seeking.
Wrap Up With a Strong Summary
End your application with a short summary that leaves the recruiter with a clear impression of who you are and what your key strengths are. You might list your top three qualities. Also, express your genuine interest in the position with a polite closing sentence—let them know you're eager to discuss the role further and would be happy to attend an interview.