Your PhD: Applying for jobs

When you start to apply for jobs and go for interviews, always consider the skills an employer is seeking in a potential employee. Use a skills table which notes the evidence that you have certain skills to answer questions on the application form. Emphasise that you have the skills required by highlighting them in your CV. When asked why you want to work for that particular employer, consider what you have in common with their organisation. It might be:

• knowledge or expertise in an area they work in;
• experience of their industry;
• an understanding of their clients, location and international operations.

Research their website to find out what you have in common and mention these things in your cover letter.

Prepare well for interviews. Research the employer thoroughly. Look the part. Appear confident. Smile. Be positive. Show interest in what they do. See applications, CVs and interviews for more information.

	Written by higher education careers professionals	Date:  Spring 2008
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