Writing a successful job application

Applying for an apprenticeship job? Make your job application stand out with our top tips.

Applying for an apprenticeship job is the same as applying for any other job. Your first task is to submit a winning application and get shortlisted. Here’s how.

1. Apply for more than one apprenticeship vacancy

Where possible apply for more than one vacancy at a time to increase your chances of securing an apprenticeship.

2. Write a new covering letter or supporting statement for each job application

Always submit a new covering letter/supporting statement that addresses that job’s specification. It makes it easier for the recruiter to see if you're a good match for the job.

3. Highlight your strengths but be concise

When submitting a CV make sure you keep it as concise as possible, preferably under two sides. Include your name and contact details on the first page and summarise who you are and your key strengths in a few sentences in your opening personal statement.

4. Say why you think you are the right person for the apprenticeship job

Tell the recruiter why you think you're the right person for the job. That will be in the covering letter or supporting statement. Be explicit, eg: 'I believe I am the right person for this role because I have both the skills and personality to succeed in this role…' Then follow it up with how and evidence.

5. Back up what you say with evidence

For example, if you say you have leadership skills back it up with evidence: 'I demonstrated leadership when I led a fundraising project for my local charity and raised…'

6. Contact the right person

Check and address your covering letter to the right person. It shows you have attention to detail.

7. Say why you want to work for the company

Conduct some research on the company and read the job spec carefully; let the recruiter know why you want to work for that company specifically.

8. Proof-read your application before sending it

Check and double-check your spelling, grammar, and sentence structures. Ask someone you trust to proof-read it. Recruiters get put off when they read typos and poor grammar.

9. Take a look at IFATE

Go onto the IFATE (Institute for Apprenticeship’s & Technical Education) website to check the skills, knowledge and behaviours you will learn whilst on the apprenticeship. It will give you an understanding on what you're applying for. For example, what is quantity surveying?

What’s next?

You’ve been applying for apprenticeship jobs, and you get asked for attend a job interview – great. Now find out how to shine at the interview.