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Is it the same process if I want to work in another country?Application styles vary from country to country. Some countries prefer CVs that emphasise factual information or personal details. Employers in other countries may require written references and exam transcripts to be sent with your application. Some might require two CVs, one accurately presented in their native language and perhaps another in English. See country specific information, for details of CV requirements in more than 50 countries. back to top I am applying for postgraduate study. Is it the same process as applying for a job?Universities often have a specific postgraduate application form for you to complete and their guidance notes usually make clear what information they would like. The principle is the same - targeting your application content to meet the perceived interests of the reader. If you are unclear, possible areas to include are: - why you are interested in this area of study, research ideas or proposals;
- experience of relevant study to date;
- evidence of academic attainment including prizes and awards;
- how you hope to benefit from this study and how it fits into future career plans;
- evidence of relevant research or related skills, such as use of initiative during past projects, project management, report writing, familiarity with techniques or equipment;
- details of any relevant practical or work experience or work shadowing that will show motivation for study or an intended future career.
Speaking to other postgraduates or having a mentor could be useful and it is always worth contacting the academic department you are applying to, or your own tutors, for suggestions. If attaching additional information to your application, about one A4 sheet is usually sufficient. back to top Will my personal circumstances, such as my sexuality, ethnic origin, age, gender, or political affiliations affect my application?You do not usually need to supply any of this information. However, in reality, your name may indicate your sex or ethnic origin and it may even suggest your age if it was a fashionable name during a particular period. None of these factors should not affect your ability to do the job and so should not be taken into account by a prospective employer. However, there are indications that some unfair discrimination can and does still take place, despite legislation. One of the best ways to reduce the risk of unfair discrimination is to market yourself so effectively that employers cannot ignore your suitability for the post. - Research the company and the key attributes required for the job.
- Consider the precise factors that make you a suitable candidate.
- Decide what evidence you might present to prove it.
- Work out where to place that evidence in your application in order to make the greatest impact.
- Give concrete examples to support your case.
It is important to think positively. Concentrating on your strengths can help to counter any negative stereotypes and provide clear evidence of your suitability for the job. You may prefer to select employers who have publicised equality and diversity statements covering existing policies and practices, or who openly target minority groups, or who are listed by civil rights organisations. For further information, see handling discrimination. back to top I’m a student with a disability. Should I disclose it to an employer and if so, when?The decision is yours to make, but generally it is considered wise to be upfront with employers and that your original covering letter is the best place to do this. If this worries you, you might try targeting employers with demonstrated commitment to being disability friendly. Check whether the company recruitment literature includes a policy statement on disability, whether its job advertising carries the Jobcentre Plus ‘two ticks’ symbol, and whether it is a member of the Employers' Forum on Disability. However, limiting your application to these companies may restrict your employment opportunities. For more information, go to disability disclosure and see handling discrimination. back to top How should I deal with the fact that I have a criminal record?If your convictions are not ‘spent’, or if the role you are considering is ‘excepted’ from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (ROA), it would be advisable to be upfront. If you have concerns about this, it always pays to seek advice. Your university careers adviser will be able to give you information about disclosure of criminal records. More information is available at handling discrimination.
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