Job Application Tips for the U.S.

For Jean Montgomery, Manager of Talent Acquisition in Bohemia, USA, the cover letter is a significant part of the application and should highlight how the candidate will be an asset to the company. In this interview, she reveals what opportunities a cover letter offers candidates and how to use it to convince recruiters.

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Jean, is a cover letter still necessary and if so, what’s the most essential thing about it?

For me, a cover letter is beneficial as it affords candidates a chance to elaborate on their skills and experience. It should contain a brief overview of relevant skills and background aligned with the job advertisement, and a statement outlining how you can be an asset to the company. Additionally, you can show that you’ve spent time getting to know the company by relation what you would find compelling about working there. For example; “I’ve been following Sartorius for some time now and I see that in addition to expanding the product portfolio, the company is well positioned to achieve sustainable profitable growth. I would welcome the opportunity to be a part of the Sartorius team during this exciting time."

The cover letter should contain a brief overview of relevant skills and background, and a statement outlining how you can be an asset to the company.

Jean Montgomery, Manager of Talent Acquisition, Bohemia, USA

What do you look for in a job application or interview?

In a job application we look  for candidates to relate relevant information in a concise, compelling, accurate manner. Career highlights and job achievements should illustrate your successes. Attention to detail and accuracy are also important when completing a job application.

In an interview we are looking for candidates who exhibit and communicate a passion for their work, and who are engaging and authentic in their responses to the questions posed. The candidate should have the ability to effectively communicate ideas and information relevant to the position and provide examples to illustrate their capabilities.

Are there any "no-nos" in a job interview?

Of course, there are. For example, someone who is negative or arrogant in their responses, or someone who bashes their former boss or company can be offputting. If someone does not appear to have a good level of engagement, or if someone talks excessively without providing relevant information, this can create a negative impression.

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