Tips for sending applications offline:
Paper
Use a good, clean, bright-white paper. Good quality is often best. The ideal size is short bond or 8 ½" x 11". Nappco and Vernal brands are good choices but you'll also find equally excellent quality with Best Buy and other cheaper brands. Substance 20 or 60 gsm thickness will do. Try not to skimp on quality. Low-grade paper will make you look cheap, so try to invest in good quality paper.
So why can't you print your resume on a long-sized bond paper? Simple: employers keep most of the resumes they receive in a file and since they prefer their files to be neat and organized, they do want these resumes to come in the same sizes. Short bond papers are easier to handle, pass around and store. So don't try to play smart and try to attract attention to yourself by being different. Most employers frown at non-conformity. If you're different from the rest of the pack, they'll know soon enough through your list of qualifications, so let these speak for you instead.
Envelope
Use the standard long, white envelope that has no markings, personal logos or cutesy stuff. Keep it basic. Or use a bigger one that lets you send your resume unfolded. If you'll be sending your resume by mail, make sure it has the correct name of the recipient and company address. Snail mail is just that -- slow. Don't delay it further by writing the wrong street number.
If you can, though, avoid snail mail. Use it only if there's nothing else. Snail mail is a good alternative if:
- the employer requires you to send a hard copy of your resume instead of an e-mail attachment.
- you don't have access to a computer that has an Internet connection.
- you live far from the office/plant/factory and can't travel there to submit your application in person.
Photo
Almost all employers and hiring managers these days will appreciate applicants who include their picture with their resume. However, don’t feel pressured if you don’t want to, although it certainly is a requirement for many companies. Just check the ad if it's indicated. If it is, get your picture taken and attach it to your resume. If you're sending your resume as an electronic file, have your photo scanned, copy it and paste it on your resume.
If, however, you chose not to include your photo with your resume, bring at least 2 copies during your interview. Your employer is sure to ask for it. A good size would be passport size, a 1 ½" x 1 ½" or a 2" x 2". Unless indicated, a white background would be a safe choice.
How to look in your photo:
If you're a guy... wear a shirt that has a collar, comb your hair and wipe off that sweat/oil from your face and neck.
If you're a girl... wear a basic blouse (no frills, ribbons, ruffles and other distracting stuff). Don't wear too much makeup or hair spray/gel/wax/whathaveyou.
Don’t staple your photo to your resume or hold it in place with a paper clip. Use a little paste or glue on the back of the photo and stick it on the paper. To make sure you do it neatly, simply use a small amount of adhesive and rub it in the middle of the photo. That way, the excess glue or paste won't 'bleed' out of the edges.
Tape, clip or staple wire?
If you have an application letter and one or two pages of resume, you shouldn’t use any of these. Simply align the edges of the papers together and then fold neatly in two places. Or if you prefer, use a clear plastic folder to keep the papers clean and smooth.
Tips for sending your resume online:
The most important thing to remember when sending an application online is: follow instructions. If the employer asks you to send your resume as an attachment, then attach it to your message. If they ask you to paste it on the body of your message, then do so. If the employer has a specific format in mind (.doc, .rtf, etc.), make sure you convert the file before sending it.
Should you provide a cover letter?
Absolutely. Sending your resume without a few introductory statements is too amateurish. On your message body, include a simple salutation using the contact person's name. Your message should indicate what your intentions are, where you obtained information regarding the job opening and what position you're applying for. Include a few of your qualifications to stir the recipient's interest. Include your contact information -- landline, cell phone number/s and e-mail address, along with your availability.
Write as you would write if you were sending a cover letter on hard copy. Letting a prospective employer know who you are and what you can offer shows respect and professionalism. It also helps keep their interest long enough to actually go through your resume.
Watch your grammar.
We all make mistakes when it comes to spelling ang grammar. That's why it's important that you perform a spelling and grammar check on your resume. But don't just trust the software to do it. Proofread your resume twice or thrice and then ask someone to check it for better assurance.
How to 'sign' an electronic message
If you have a scanned image of your signature, you may use this, although you could end your letter with just your complete name. Example,
Yours truly,
Juan Z. Masipag
or
Respectfully yours,
Juanita W. Masinop
Never, ever type the word 'Applicant' after your name. The employer already knows your purpose.
Last tip: be businesslike in all your dealings. Avoid using frivolous statements on your resume or cover letter or try to be cute. The employer is looking for someone they can hire, not somebody who'll play the clown. If you want that job, show them you are the right choice.
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