Sunday, June 21, 2015

Pappu ki job application kyon reject hui!! a.k.a. What to do when applying for a job.

Most of us are at any point of time trying to maximize our potential by getting that dream job with our dream company. However, very few of us are able to realize that dream. What we discuss below often separates the achievers from the wannabes. Lets find out today ki job opening ke liye apply karte hue samay Raita kaise NAHI failate hain... :P



DOs
  • Do spell check before sending your email. No spelling/grammar mistakes means you HAVE ATD yaani Attention to Detail; believe it or not, it turns some people on, more than the AXE ya WILDSTONE deo.

  • Attach your resume. (Nokri chaiye to janampatri to bhejni padegi na!!). Use PDF format preferably. Unless you are in scientific research or IT, please ensure that your resume is just 1 page long. If you are in scientific research or IT, try not sending a e-book instead of a resume. 3-4 pages are good enough.
  • Name your resume file properly. e.g. Ekta Kapur (2)(1)(1).pdf is NOT a good name. Ekta Kapur.pdf is good, unless you believe in numerology, in which case Ektaa Kapuur.pdf will definitely get you that extra attention you have always wanted.
  • Write a proper subject line so that the HR team opens your email. If there are multiple openings mentioned in the email, mention the opening you want to apply for. Subject line is like trailer of a Salman Khan movie. Aadhi mehnat trailer par karne se hi movie HIT ho sakti hai. e.g. bad subject line "Looking for job opportunity"; good subject line "Resume - Ekta Kapur: Business Analyst profile"

  • Email content: Sirf email khulne se kismat nahi khulti. Write 3-4 lines about yourself in the email body and what you have done so far which makes you ready for your target job. Create that favourable first impression.
  • Follow any instructions given in the email about the subject line and the resume/cover letter

DON'Ts
  • Forward an old email to HR team The HR team can notice it because the email subject line says Fwd:... for such emails. Either be smart enough to remove Fwd from subject line by editing the subject line option when forwarding an email. OR be hardworking enough to prepare a fresh email. Actually always take the second option. Prepare a customized email for each company and job profile.
  • Mention your father's name + the declaration that all documents can be provided for verification + your zodiac sign + your favorite color in your resume.

  • Use casual language e.g. "Please find attached my resume and do the needful". The HR team is not your "Baap ka Naukar" and the only needful thing they will do is dump your application if you do not act professionally.
  • Use childish email ids for professional purposes. Cuterinkie@gmail.com and sexyrahul@hotmale.com (pun intended!!) is not acceptable unless you are 5 years old and applying for a kids beauty pageant.
If you have experienced any funny job applications as a recruiter, do share your experience in the comment section below.