Things to Do When Applying for Jobs in Zimbabwe

Applying for a job has never been this easy. In the past one had to buy a newspaper, search for jobs, type a CV (resume), print it and photocopy it, buy envelopes and stamps, write a formal application letter (cover letter), usually manually then send your job application letters and copies of your CV via the postman.

Not only was it time-consuming, it was also costly and quite demanding. Now, with the coming of technology, Employment platforms such as Work In Zimbabwe that help job seekers apply for jobs in Zimbabwe and employers get vacancy applications easily have turned out to be a gift to thousands of Zimbabwean job seekers and their prospective employers.

Having said that, of course, Work In Zimbabwe helps you apply for unlimited jobs daily, without even typing any application letter if you so decide, but there are some Dos and Don'ts that never change, whether you are applying for a job the traditional way or the new way - online. This article is going to talk about that and without wasting much time, let's delve straight into our today's main topic.

Align your CV and cover letter (application letter) to the job in question:

An accountant can become an auditor or a finance officer, etc. However, The accountant must have 3 specific CVs and Cover letters for the e jobs in question. He or she must have a CV and cover letter for accounting jobs, a CV and cover letter for Auditing jobs and a CV and cover letter for finance jobs. Each set of CV and Cover letter should primarily focus on the Accounting, Auditing or Finance skills and experience that this job seeker possesses. That way, the applicant will stand a better chance of getting shortlisted or even hired because he/she would have sent a tailored CV and cover letter to the hiring manager. The same goes for Sales/marketing/advertising jobs, and every other profession or industry.

Do some research and learn more about the company:

By mentioning in your application letter or Message to the Hiring manager section (https://www.workinzimbabwe.com always gives you this option whenever you apply for a job on its platform), some positive achievements or even challenges the company experienced, the hiring manager will notice how serious you are about working for them and that you took some time to learn more about them. However, always end that topic by explaining how your skills, qualifications and experience may also help solve the problem or avoid it totally.

Always follow the application instructions:

Make sure you follow the application instructions carefully. If they ask for a specific format or document, make sure you provide it. If they ask for a single PDF containing a copy of your ID, copies of qualifications and certificates, etc, please just do as the hiring manager says. By not following orders, you are very much likely to get disqualified. After all, remember, they usually get lots of applications for that vacancy you are looking for, so it's very much easy to disqualify those who disobey application rules.

First impression counts, make the best out of it:

Your CV and cover letter are your first impression, so make sure they are professional and error-free. Hiring managers are ever busy when selecting applicants to shortlist. They don't have time to go through long CVs. It's best to make your CV 1 to 2 pages long. If it gets longer than that, rest assured that most of what you wrote is irrelevant and hiring managers won't even go through it. For that reason, your CV should only include content you believe will sell your skills, qualifications and experience.

Use keywords for your industry or profession:

Many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen resumes. Make sure you use keywords relevant to the job to increase your chances of getting past this initial screening. A Computer Technician or IT Administrator should make sure that his /her CV should include words like Linux and windows servers, SQL and Access Databases, cisco, troubleshooting, Information Technology, etc. Again, An Account's CV should also contain keywords like include taxation compliance, valuation, portfolio, financial analysis, automatic data processing (ADP), Account reconciliations, GAAP, Financial Reporting, billing, return on assets (ROA), strategic planner(ing), strategic thinker(ing), capital budgets, etc. Just make sure you don't dump the keywords, strategically include them as part of your experience, what you learned at college or as your major skills.

Never underestimate the power of networking:

Don't be afraid to network and reach out to people in the industry. Attend job fairs, and networking events, and connect with people of the same profession as yours on LinkedIn. You will learn so much about the tips and tricks that govern your profession by mixing and mingling with fellow industry mates. Also strongly consider being part of your industry's professional members. Accountants should consider becoming Chartered Accountants, Supply Chain Managers should also join CIPS, etc. Some employers will now only hire you if you are a member of a professional body.

When shortlisted, always prepare for interviews:

If you're invited to interview, make sure you prepare ahead of time. Research common interview questions, practice your responses, and dress professionally. For every career level or industry, there is a common set of questions that hiring managers often ask during an interview and these questions are asked to ascertain if you are the best candidate for the job. An example is a question (usually to managers) about their future plans. The hiring manager wants to ascertain if you are going to be with them for a long time or if you want to join them while working on getting a better job elsewhere. So, always research what questions employers often ask for the job you will be interviewed for.

After-Interview Follow-up:

After you have attended an interview, follow up with a thank-you email. This shows your interest in the job and can help keep you top of mind with the hiring manager. However, never show your desperation, like clearly mentioning that you desperately need to get the job. Remain professional. In the follow-up email, which you should send 2 to 3 days after the interview, thank the hiring manager for giving you an opportunity to prove that you deserve the job, how you were impressed by the company's professionalism and how you look forward to working with them. Keep it short and professional.