FREE PRINTABLE CHECKLIST

Before you apply: a job application checklist

Eight steps for each application, so every one you send fits the job and is easy to follow up.

Tick each one as you finish it

1. Read the whole posting, including the requirements at the end.
The requirements and the location rules are often at the bottom of the posting.
2. Note where the posting says you must be located or allowed to work.
If the posting names a country or region you are not in, ask before you apply or move on.
3. Tailor your summary to this role.
Two or three lines on the experience you have that this job asks for.
4. Use the posting’s job title in your headline where it truthfully describes you.
Never rename a job title you actually held.
5. Check the job’s key skills against your resume.
Add a missing skill only where you really have it, and show where you used it.
6. Write a cover letter if the posting asks for one or if it adds something your resume cannot.
A short letter that answers “why this role” beats a long generic one.
7. Save the job, the date and the version of your resume you sent.
A spreadsheet works; so does the ROLIVA application board.
8. Set a date to follow up.
Note who to contact and when, and follow up once.

To print this checklist or save it as a PDF, use your browser’s Print command.

Private: Your answers stay in this browser tab. Nothing you tick is sent to ROLIVA or saved, and there is no sign-up.

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