A couple of journalists emailed questions about job hunting recently. Now that sweeps is over, the flood gates will open.
One area that many asked about is the actual application process. Do you go through Human Resources? Do you really need a cover letter? Do you send an application by email, snail mail or both? Are there any tricks to knowing how to fill out applications for jobs?
So let’s delve into these questions. First, should you send an application to Human Resources. Many companies require an application be filed in the corporate HR system before a news director is allowed to contact you. So if you don’t apply through HR your application may never actually count. So, fill out the paperwork online then email the ND a cover letter and resume stating that you have applied and are very interested in the specific job.
So the answer to whether you email or snail mail your application is a little of both. Electronic is the way the corporate world works nowadays. But it doesn’t hurt to follow up with a letter to an ND making sure the person is aware your application exists.
Do you need a cover letter? Consider it an opportunity to really explain who you are as an employee. Where else do you get to describe your work ethic, journalistic goals and strengths clearly? A well written cover letter still impresses. Just make it more than, “Hi, I am so and so and I am applying for _____ job and can be reached at _____ number.”
When filling out applications, really watch for typos. Keep in mind that many companies use programs to scan for keywords and weed out people without the required experience for a job. Another good reason to go ahead and send a cover letter and resume. You just never know.
Finally, as obvious as this may sound, make sure you spell the news director’s name correctly. If you don’t, nothing else you say or do matters. I’ve heard many ND’s talk about how often this happens. A cover letter is sent with their name spelled wrong, a completely different name or the wrong call letters. If you are sloppy, you will pay for it.
Hope this answers a lot of your questions. Good luck in your search!
