Unit 1 “Applying for a job”

1St text: Looking for a job

How you should start hunting for a job.

The best way of doing this is to study the job market either with the help of recruitment (employment) agencies or situations vacant pages in the press.

The structure of the vacancy^(job) advertisements is usually the same: the name of the vacant position, the list of the candidate’s professional duties, the demands made of the candidate and sometimes the system of compensations and benefits._{пенсия, (страховое) пособие}

Be realistic when evaluating the job market for what you have to offer. Consider who and what you are, your strengths, your weaknesses, interests, likes and dislikes. Analyze your real motivations and ambitions.

When you have made your choice and found a position you would like to apply for, you will have to be faced with the time-consuming task of writing your letter of application and curriculum vitae.(résumé)

Many firms use job application forms or are so informal as to invite applicants to telephone to arrange an interview. But for many jobs, and especially more senior ones, you have to compose a letter, there are in fact two choices: a letter containing all the information; or a shorter covering letter_{сопроводительное письмо} together with a curriculum vitae containing information set out on a separate sheet.

The second choice is preferable. It looks more businesslike and the tabulation_{табличная сводка} makes the information easier for the reader.

The shorter covering letter is easier to compose effectively when it is not cluttered_{загромождать} with miscellaneous detail about your qualifications, etc.

The plan for the covering letter might be:

1. reference to the advertisement and statement of application

2. reference to the enclosed curriculum vitae

3. amplification_{расширение} of details of curriculum vitae

4. complimentary_{поздравительный; приветственный} close_{завершение, заключение, конец, окончание}

Your letter must sound like you, it must convey something of your own personality. However, if you are a very unassuming_{непритязательный, скромный} person, you will need to make the effort to sound a little more forceful than usual. After all you do have to speak for yourself on this occasion!

Remember that the aim of this letter is to ensure that your name goes on to the shortlist and takes you to the next stage, the interview. To do this you need to study the advertisement very carefully indeed, decide what sort of person with what qualifications, is being sought_{от seek}, and then show that you are that person. If you want to be hired you need to show enthusiasm and interest in the company and the position (without being too overwhelming about it). Remember how many other applications your letter may have to compete against and try to ensure that it will stand out and compel_{подчинять, покорять, привлекать} attention.

The covering letter should be handwritten. Many employers like to see a specimen of your handwriting. Some large companies, especially in the USA, employ experts (graphologists) to examine applicant’s handwriting.