7 answers
Zoey
Student
Atlantic, Iowa
3
Questions
Updated
1511 views
How do I make an application better?
What ways can I improve myself for my job?
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7 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1783
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Zoey employers receive thousands of applications for each open position, and they typically spend less than one minute reviewing each resume. A well-crafted resume is essential for job seekers, it is the first opportunity to make a good impression and sell yourself to a potential employer. A good resume will get you noticed and help you land an interview.
1️⃣ CONTACT INFORMATION
Ensure your contact information is prominent and current. Spending hours perfecting your resume is a waste of time if the recruiter can’t contact you for an interview. Consider adding your LinkedIn profile.
2️⃣ USE KEYWORDS FROM JOB POSTING
The best place to start when preparing to write a resume is to carefully read the job postings that interest you. As you apply for different jobs, study each job description for keywords that show what the employer is looking for in an ideal candidate. Include those keywords in your resume where relevant.
3️⃣ RESUME SUMMERY
Summarize who you are as a professional before providing all of the details. This section can take up two or three lines on your resume and should include your area of expertise, such as “specialist” or “experience,” and a list of your most relevant skills. For each job you apply to, think about which skills the employer would likely hire you for and include those. You can often determine what's most important to the potential employer by examining the job listing.
4️⃣ EXPERIENCE SECTION
If you’re new to the workforce and don’t have much experience under your belt, consider adding relevant internships, school projects, or volunteer experience to round out the body of your resume.
5️⃣ SKILLS SECTION
The best resume is one that is tailored to the needs of the job title you are applying for. Because your skills section will be one of the most important sections when it comes to relevant hard and soft skills.
CONCLUSION — Your resume isn’t the place to be shy, t is the place to brag about your accomplishments. A good resume highlights all relevant achievements, education, and skills. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to show the world your best professional self, Zoey.
Hope this was helpful Zoey
1️⃣ CONTACT INFORMATION
Ensure your contact information is prominent and current. Spending hours perfecting your resume is a waste of time if the recruiter can’t contact you for an interview. Consider adding your LinkedIn profile.
2️⃣ USE KEYWORDS FROM JOB POSTING
The best place to start when preparing to write a resume is to carefully read the job postings that interest you. As you apply for different jobs, study each job description for keywords that show what the employer is looking for in an ideal candidate. Include those keywords in your resume where relevant.
3️⃣ RESUME SUMMERY
Summarize who you are as a professional before providing all of the details. This section can take up two or three lines on your resume and should include your area of expertise, such as “specialist” or “experience,” and a list of your most relevant skills. For each job you apply to, think about which skills the employer would likely hire you for and include those. You can often determine what's most important to the potential employer by examining the job listing.
4️⃣ EXPERIENCE SECTION
If you’re new to the workforce and don’t have much experience under your belt, consider adding relevant internships, school projects, or volunteer experience to round out the body of your resume.
5️⃣ SKILLS SECTION
The best resume is one that is tailored to the needs of the job title you are applying for. Because your skills section will be one of the most important sections when it comes to relevant hard and soft skills.
CONCLUSION — Your resume isn’t the place to be shy, t is the place to brag about your accomplishments. A good resume highlights all relevant achievements, education, and skills. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to show the world your best professional self, Zoey.
Hope this was helpful Zoey
Flo L.
Professional Advisor
25
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Flo’s Answer
Hello Zoey,
To make your application for a job standout, here are a few strategies you may consider:
1) THOROUGH APPLICATION - Fill out the application thoroughly. Most applications are generic, asking for basic legal information about you (name, address, email, phone number, work history, references, etc.).
I have not seen a paper application in a while, usually the electronic version may or may not include questions about Voluntary Disclosures or Self Identification (i.e. gender, ethnicity, veteran status, disability). I've seen some that even included sexual orientation. Again these are "voluntary" you don't have to answer and can choose "do not want to disclose". ~ Primarily, this is for EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) to record that a company provides equal employment opportunity regardless of a protected class (granted the candidate can perform the job functions with or without an accommodation).
Depending on what you are applying for, the application may also ask about pay expectations, why you're the ideal candidate for the job, and why you want to work for the company.
2) RESUME - This is your first contact with the potential employer, so write your resume in a way that aligns with the job you are applying for.
Even if you don't have a direct experience for a particular role, your skills are often relevant and transferable.
3) COVER LETTER - A professional introduction that goes beyond just the resume or application. This is your opportunity to be a bit candid and invite the potential employer to consider the possibility of an interview.
Be professional, but show personality.
4) QUALIFICATION - Apply for jobs where you meet at least 80% of the qualifications in the job description. Employers may still consider you, even if you don't meet 100% of the criteria.
You can express on your cover letter any gap in qualification and how you can still be the ideal candidate for the job you are applying for.
5) TRAINING - You may pursue additional training if you'd like to enhance your overall skills and qualifications.
6) VOLUNTEER - This is an opportunity to gain experience to add to your resume, skills, and training.
To make your application for a job standout, here are a few strategies you may consider:
1) THOROUGH APPLICATION - Fill out the application thoroughly. Most applications are generic, asking for basic legal information about you (name, address, email, phone number, work history, references, etc.).
I have not seen a paper application in a while, usually the electronic version may or may not include questions about Voluntary Disclosures or Self Identification (i.e. gender, ethnicity, veteran status, disability). I've seen some that even included sexual orientation. Again these are "voluntary" you don't have to answer and can choose "do not want to disclose". ~ Primarily, this is for EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) to record that a company provides equal employment opportunity regardless of a protected class (granted the candidate can perform the job functions with or without an accommodation).
Depending on what you are applying for, the application may also ask about pay expectations, why you're the ideal candidate for the job, and why you want to work for the company.
2) RESUME - This is your first contact with the potential employer, so write your resume in a way that aligns with the job you are applying for.
Even if you don't have a direct experience for a particular role, your skills are often relevant and transferable.
3) COVER LETTER - A professional introduction that goes beyond just the resume or application. This is your opportunity to be a bit candid and invite the potential employer to consider the possibility of an interview.
Be professional, but show personality.
4) QUALIFICATION - Apply for jobs where you meet at least 80% of the qualifications in the job description. Employers may still consider you, even if you don't meet 100% of the criteria.
You can express on your cover letter any gap in qualification and how you can still be the ideal candidate for the job you are applying for.
5) TRAINING - You may pursue additional training if you'd like to enhance your overall skills and qualifications.
6) VOLUNTEER - This is an opportunity to gain experience to add to your resume, skills, and training.
Kim Igleheart
Career Counselor | Police Officer
1771
Answers
San Antonio, Texas
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Zoey,
I'm assuming we are talking about a basic job application for a high school student, is that correct?
I just want to talk about how you describe your previous work history.
Which sounds better?
clean, wait on customers, run the register
or
maintained premises in a clean, safe, and inviting manner
provided product information to customers to assist them in making product selections, and recommended additional merchandise for them to consider
accurately handled sales transactions of various types, including cash, smartphone, credit
The thing you want to remember is you want to show the employer that you understand the ultimate goal - to help the company make or save money. So, if you worked in the warehouse, you'd focus on accurately filling orders and safety. Safety is a BIG deal. Injuries cost the company money.
Of course, some of these applications don't give you much room to list the work history. So you might need to be more concise. Or, consider attaching the optional resume. It shows you went the extra step to showcase your experience.
hope this helps!
Kim
I'm assuming we are talking about a basic job application for a high school student, is that correct?
I just want to talk about how you describe your previous work history.
Which sounds better?
clean, wait on customers, run the register
or
maintained premises in a clean, safe, and inviting manner
provided product information to customers to assist them in making product selections, and recommended additional merchandise for them to consider
accurately handled sales transactions of various types, including cash, smartphone, credit
The thing you want to remember is you want to show the employer that you understand the ultimate goal - to help the company make or save money. So, if you worked in the warehouse, you'd focus on accurately filling orders and safety. Safety is a BIG deal. Injuries cost the company money.
Of course, some of these applications don't give you much room to list the work history. So you might need to be more concise. Or, consider attaching the optional resume. It shows you went the extra step to showcase your experience.
hope this helps!
Kim
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1334
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Heyo Zoey!
So you’ve already received fantastic advice from other mentors soo you’re off to a great start. I am just gonna highlight the best points they’ve shared, and add a couple of extra tips, and sprinkle in some personality to help your application stand out!
✅ 1. Tailor Everything to the Job
Everyone mentioned this, and they’re spot on—customizing your resume and application to match the job description is a game-changer.
So, take the job posting and highlight the key skills they’re asking for. Then, mirror those keywords in your resume and cover letter. This helps you pass through those tricky Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and land in front of human eyes!
📄 2. Resume: You should make It Clear & Impactful
Your resume is like a personal highlight reel. So what you should focus on should be the:
Contact Info: Clear and up-to-date (and yes, adding a LinkedIn profile is a bonus).
Summary Statement: A quick 2-3 sentence pitch about who you are and what you bring.
Experience: Focus on your accomplishments, not just duties. Use strong action verbs like “managed,” “developed,” “achieved.”
Skills Section: Tailor your skills to what the employer is looking for—especially any technical or soft skills (e.g., teamwork, communication).
Now Zoey, If you’re light on experience, include school projects, volunteer work, or personal initiatives that showcase relevant skills.
✍️ 3. Cover Letter is Your Secret Weapon
Many people skip the cover letter—but this is where you shine. 😌✨
So, start Strong: Open with why you’re excited about the role and the company.
Be Specific: Highlight 1-2 key achievements that directly align with the job.
Show Personality: Professional ≠ boring! Let a bit of your voice come through. 🥱
here is an Example Opener: 🤔
"Dear Hiring Manager,
When I saw the opening for [Job Title] at [Company], I knew it was a perfect fit. With my passion for [specific skill or industry] and my ability to [key qualification], I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team."
Mention your dedication and passion they will want to hear you.
🧠 4. Additional Training & Volunteering
If there’s a skill you’re missing, don’t worry—there are free and low-cost resources everywhere. Because platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, or edX offer great professional courses. You can always check them out and learn to enhance or build anything you are missing.
NOW one thing is that Volunteering isn’t just a nice thing to do—it’s also a fantastic way to gain experience and new skills. 👏
🎯 5. Soft Skills Matter Too Zoey!
Everyone talks about technical abilities, but soft skills (like communication, teamwork, adaptability) are just as crucial. Employers love candidates who can collaborate, solve problems, and adapt to new challenges.
So, Include these in your application by weaving them into your experiences. Instead of saying, “Worked on a project,” say:
"Collaborated with a diverse team to successfully deliver a project ahead of schedule, improving processes by 15%."
😌🎉 Yea I am great! 🤪
Alright now!
📊 6. Keep Improving & Reflecting
Applications aren’t one-and-done. Always refine as you grow.
Ask for feedback from mentors or peers.
Keep a “Brag Book” of your wins—big or small—to easily update your resume.
Practice your interview skills (mock interviews are a great way to prepare).
You’ve got this, Zoey! Know that Your effort to improve already sets you apart so keep pushing forward, and soon you’ll be the one giving advice to others. All the best😎😉!
Revise & Personalize your resume and cover letter for each application.
Practice Your Story—be ready to talk about your achievements in interviews.
Explore Additional Learning—pick one area to strengthen and dive in.
So you’ve already received fantastic advice from other mentors soo you’re off to a great start. I am just gonna highlight the best points they’ve shared, and add a couple of extra tips, and sprinkle in some personality to help your application stand out!
✅ 1. Tailor Everything to the Job
Everyone mentioned this, and they’re spot on—customizing your resume and application to match the job description is a game-changer.
So, take the job posting and highlight the key skills they’re asking for. Then, mirror those keywords in your resume and cover letter. This helps you pass through those tricky Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and land in front of human eyes!
📄 2. Resume: You should make It Clear & Impactful
Your resume is like a personal highlight reel. So what you should focus on should be the:
Contact Info: Clear and up-to-date (and yes, adding a LinkedIn profile is a bonus).
Summary Statement: A quick 2-3 sentence pitch about who you are and what you bring.
Experience: Focus on your accomplishments, not just duties. Use strong action verbs like “managed,” “developed,” “achieved.”
Skills Section: Tailor your skills to what the employer is looking for—especially any technical or soft skills (e.g., teamwork, communication).
Now Zoey, If you’re light on experience, include school projects, volunteer work, or personal initiatives that showcase relevant skills.
✍️ 3. Cover Letter is Your Secret Weapon
Many people skip the cover letter—but this is where you shine. 😌✨
So, start Strong: Open with why you’re excited about the role and the company.
Be Specific: Highlight 1-2 key achievements that directly align with the job.
Show Personality: Professional ≠ boring! Let a bit of your voice come through. 🥱
here is an Example Opener: 🤔
"Dear Hiring Manager,
When I saw the opening for [Job Title] at [Company], I knew it was a perfect fit. With my passion for [specific skill or industry] and my ability to [key qualification], I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team."
Mention your dedication and passion they will want to hear you.
🧠 4. Additional Training & Volunteering
If there’s a skill you’re missing, don’t worry—there are free and low-cost resources everywhere. Because platforms like Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, or edX offer great professional courses. You can always check them out and learn to enhance or build anything you are missing.
NOW one thing is that Volunteering isn’t just a nice thing to do—it’s also a fantastic way to gain experience and new skills. 👏
🎯 5. Soft Skills Matter Too Zoey!
Everyone talks about technical abilities, but soft skills (like communication, teamwork, adaptability) are just as crucial. Employers love candidates who can collaborate, solve problems, and adapt to new challenges.
So, Include these in your application by weaving them into your experiences. Instead of saying, “Worked on a project,” say:
"Collaborated with a diverse team to successfully deliver a project ahead of schedule, improving processes by 15%."
😌🎉 Yea I am great! 🤪
Alright now!
📊 6. Keep Improving & Reflecting
Applications aren’t one-and-done. Always refine as you grow.
Ask for feedback from mentors or peers.
Keep a “Brag Book” of your wins—big or small—to easily update your resume.
Practice your interview skills (mock interviews are a great way to prepare).
You’ve got this, Zoey! Know that Your effort to improve already sets you apart so keep pushing forward, and soon you’ll be the one giving advice to others. All the best😎😉!
Dr recommends the following next steps:
Bright Komor
Nurse
261
Answers
Accra, Greater Accra Region, Ghana
Updated
Bright’s Answer
Improving yourself for a job and making your application stand out involve showcasing your skills and potential. To improve, identify key skills for your current role or the roles you aspire to, such as technical skills (coding, data analysis), soft skills (communication, teamwork), or a combination of both. Seek feedback from managers, colleagues, or mentors to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
Targeted learning opportunities can be found through online courses, workshops, conferences, mentorship, and on-the-job training offered by your employer. Practice and apply learning by finding opportunities to use new skills in your current role, volunteering for projects, taking on new responsibilities, and not being afraid to step outside your comfort zone.
Keep track of your accomplishments using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to describe your accomplishments clearly. Network with other professionals in your field to open up new opportunities and provide valuable insights. Maintain a positive attitude and be open to new challenges.
To make your application better, tailor your resume and cover letter by carefully reviewing the job description and highlighting relevant skills and experience. Quantify your achievements using numbers to demonstrate the impact of your work. Showcase your skills by providing examples of how you've used them in previous roles. Proofread your application carefully, asking friends or family members to review it as well.
Highlight your unique selling proposition by highlighting what makes you stand out from other applicants. Network with contacts who know about job openings and practice interview skills beforehand. If invited for an interview, be prepared to answer common interview questions and provide specific examples of your skills and experience.
Follow up with the hiring manager after submitting your application to express your continued interest in the position. By focusing on both improving yourself and crafting a compelling application, you'll significantly increase your chances of landing your dream job.
Targeted learning opportunities can be found through online courses, workshops, conferences, mentorship, and on-the-job training offered by your employer. Practice and apply learning by finding opportunities to use new skills in your current role, volunteering for projects, taking on new responsibilities, and not being afraid to step outside your comfort zone.
Keep track of your accomplishments using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to describe your accomplishments clearly. Network with other professionals in your field to open up new opportunities and provide valuable insights. Maintain a positive attitude and be open to new challenges.
To make your application better, tailor your resume and cover letter by carefully reviewing the job description and highlighting relevant skills and experience. Quantify your achievements using numbers to demonstrate the impact of your work. Showcase your skills by providing examples of how you've used them in previous roles. Proofread your application carefully, asking friends or family members to review it as well.
Highlight your unique selling proposition by highlighting what makes you stand out from other applicants. Network with contacts who know about job openings and practice interview skills beforehand. If invited for an interview, be prepared to answer common interview questions and provide specific examples of your skills and experience.
Follow up with the hiring manager after submitting your application to express your continued interest in the position. By focusing on both improving yourself and crafting a compelling application, you'll significantly increase your chances of landing your dream job.
Emily Garcia
Graphic Designer
35
Answers
Apple Valley, California
Updated
Emily’s Answer
Hello Zoey,
Improving your application to enhance yourself for a potential job position are both ongoing and important processes that involve both technical and personal development.
Tailor Your Resume to the Job: For your resume in particular, try to adjust it for the job by highlighting your skills, experience (educational or other previous work/volunteer experience) and accomplishments that matches the specific job that you're applying for. Include a brief summary at the top that further highlights yourself (key strengths, career goals, etc). Make it specific to the role that you're applying for. If you're early in your career path, you can also include an objective statement to outline what you are hoping to achieve in the position.
Keep It Concise and Organized: Try to keep your resume clear and easy for others to read by using short statements through bullet points, headings, and layout. Ideally, you want to make your resume at least 1 page in length (for early career starters of your still new into your career) or two pages (for more experienced workers/professionals).
Highlight Relevant Education and Certifications: Alongside including your educational background (most recent or relevant), you can also include any industry-related/educational-related certifications that could add value to your qualifications with the job.
I hope this helps you out a bit more with incorporating your resume, and I wish you the best of luck!
Best Regards,
Emily Garcia
Improving your application to enhance yourself for a potential job position are both ongoing and important processes that involve both technical and personal development.
Tailor Your Resume to the Job: For your resume in particular, try to adjust it for the job by highlighting your skills, experience (educational or other previous work/volunteer experience) and accomplishments that matches the specific job that you're applying for. Include a brief summary at the top that further highlights yourself (key strengths, career goals, etc). Make it specific to the role that you're applying for. If you're early in your career path, you can also include an objective statement to outline what you are hoping to achieve in the position.
Keep It Concise and Organized: Try to keep your resume clear and easy for others to read by using short statements through bullet points, headings, and layout. Ideally, you want to make your resume at least 1 page in length (for early career starters of your still new into your career) or two pages (for more experienced workers/professionals).
Highlight Relevant Education and Certifications: Alongside including your educational background (most recent or relevant), you can also include any industry-related/educational-related certifications that could add value to your qualifications with the job.
I hope this helps you out a bit more with incorporating your resume, and I wish you the best of luck!
Best Regards,
Emily Garcia
Alex V.
Commercial Specialist / Account Management
16
Answers
Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands
Updated
Alex’s Answer
Dear Zoey,
Thank you for your question!
In order to make your CV and job application more appealing I would advise the following:
- Do not make your CV longer than 1-2 pages and include various sections that provide succinct information about your experience.
- You can find a free online platform that can evaluate your CV and let you know if it has a good chance to pass the ATS that recruiters use, for example: enhancv.com
Wish you a lot of luck!
Greetings,
Alex
Thank you for your question!
In order to make your CV and job application more appealing I would advise the following:
- Do not make your CV longer than 1-2 pages and include various sections that provide succinct information about your experience.
- You can find a free online platform that can evaluate your CV and let you know if it has a good chance to pass the ATS that recruiters use, for example: enhancv.com
Wish you a lot of luck!
Greetings,
Alex