Key knowledge about the application

Often, the employer sees your CV first. When it has caught their interest, their next stop is your application. And yes – 70% of employers still want an application.

The application is still important

There is a lot of talk about the application becoming obsolete. But research shows:

• 70% of employers still want to receive an application + CV

In your application, you get the chance to elaborate on what you can do and why you want the job. This is where you can really step forward and show who you are.

The purpose of the application

The purpose is to create enough interest that the company wants to invite you to a job interview.

Focus should be on:

• Why you want the job
• Why they should choose you specifically

Important: Do NOT repeat your CV. The CV tells what you HAVE done. The application tells what you WANT to do and CAN do in the future.

What do employers value?

Research shows what employers advise job seekers:

• 62%: Be more careful with your CV and application
• 52%: Spend more time understanding your own motivation
• 48%: Spend more time understanding yourself and your skills

This shows that preparation is key. The better you can describe your motivation and skills, the easier it becomes to write a good application.

Keep it short

A good application stays at maximum 1 page.

The employer often has limited time and needs to quickly get an overview. A shorter application increases your chances of capturing their interest.

The unsolicited application

You might think unsolicited applications are not for you. But it can actually make good sense.

An analysis shows that 47% of companies believe that email to a hiring manager is the best method for unsolicited contact.

The value here is that you can send a good application to companies you find interesting – even if they don't have an active job posting right now.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Repeating your CV: Write forward-looking, not backward-looking
• Writing too long: Keep it to 1 page
• Being too generic: Customize for each position
• Forgetting motivation: Start with why

Practical tips

• Focus on motivation and skills
• Keep it to 1 page
• Customize for each position
• Proofread carefully
• Also consider unsolicited applications

Try it yourself

1. Think about: Why do you want the job you're applying for?
2. Write down 3 reasons
3. Consider: What makes you unique as a candidate?

Frequently asked questions

Next step

Now you understand the purpose of the application. The next step is to learn how to prepare for writing – 5 important steps before you begin.