Applying For A Job Opportunity – Sending Your Supporting Documents

Untitled design
0

So you have found the job opportunity that you have been searching for. But then, what documents do you send to apply for the position. Some companies may require Supporting Documents to be sent along with your application letter. Knowing what to include with your application letter and how to include it will increase your chances of getting recruited.

Supporting Documents

Supporting documentation for a job application may include a CV, Cover Letter, Certifications , References, Letter of Recommendation and other documents required in the job advertisement.

The information that is required varies depending on the job and the employer’s hiring requirements. Normally, employers specify what supporting documents they want to be sent with the application letter. If they do not specify the documents, then you may ask the HR officer or hiring manager what to send. Ensure that you follow their instructions on what to send and how to send it( email, post or drop it off at the office)

Why Do Employers Need Supporting Documents?

Supporting documents help employers evaluate your application. For many employers, a CV  provides enough information. Other employers may need extra information to determine which candidate they will interview and eventually hire. For instance, employers that require you to provide your school transcripts allow them to confirm if you have graduated and what your GPA is.

Requesting supporting documentation also help employers to assess whether candidates are able to follow instructions. For instance, if a job advertisement states that candidates must provide a reference letter, hiring managers or HR Officers can immediately eliminate all applicants who do not submit their reference letters.

Below is a list of Supporting Documents that you may send with your application letter:

CV
Cover Letter
Reference Letter
School Transcript
Certifications

How to get Copies of Documents

Employers may request original copies of certain documents, like transcripts, hence it is advisable that you request for the transcripts ahead of time before you send out your application. You may request your transcript from the school registrar or fill in a form . Note that some schools charge an extra fee for transcripts.

Submitting Support Documents

Gathering all the required documents whether its during the application process or during an interview is really helpful to employers. It allows the employer to have all the documents on hand rather than following up with the candidates to request for documents via email/phone.

On the other hand, some candidates find gathering all these documents a hassle. Some documents may need some extra digging to locate. For instance, if you have lost one of your certificates then who would you contact to get another copy of the certificate. Other documents may be difficult to assemble. For instance, if you are providing your list of reference then you would need to get in touch with those people and seek their permission to use them as a reference. You should also brief them of the position you are applying for  so they can back you up when the recruitment company calls.

Follow the Instructions In The Job Advertisement

Once you have gathered all your supporting documents, follow the employer’s instructions on how they should be submitted. Employers may ask you to attach them in an email or send it through post. If an employer asks you to send the documents in a pdf format, then ensure that you do submit the documents in a pdf format. Ensure that you submit all your documents at once. It is advisable that you have copies of your documents in your computer or phone so that you do not necessarily have to look for them when submitting your job application.

Bringing Documents to your Job Interview

If the employer asks you to bring your supporting documents to the interview, bring a copy of the requested documents with you to leave to the hiring manager.

Be sure that you have everything else you need ready to bring with you to the interview.