A Student’s Guide to CV and Cover Letter Writing in Finland (1): Preparation
Navigating the Job Market: A Student’s Guide to CV and Cover Letter Writing in Finland 1
In Finland’s competitive job market, students must effectively showcase their skills and experiences through well-crafted CVs and cover letters. These two documents serve as your first impression with potential employers, that is why it is important to present them thoughtfully. This article will guide you through creating CVs and cover letters.
Preparation: Know Yourself and Know the Company
Before you begin writing your CV and cover letter, it’s essential to take a step back and prepare. The foundation of a successful job application lies in understanding both yourself and the company you’re applying to.
1. Self-Assessment: Understanding Your Competence
Start by conducting a thorough self-assessment. Reflect on your skills, experiences, and career aspirations. Ask yourself:
- What are my core strengths and competencies?
- What experiences and achievements am I most proud of?
- How do my skills align with the roles I’m interested in?
This self-awareness will help you identify the key attributes you want to highlight in your application, ensuring that your CV and cover letter genuinely reflect who you are and what you can offer.
2. Research the Company: Aligning with Their Vision and Values
Understanding the company you are applying to is just as important as knowing yourself. Take the time to research the company’s values, vision, and culture. Look for answers to these questions:
- What are the company’s core values and mission?
- What kind of work environment do they promote?
- How does the company position itself in the industry?
By aligning your application with the company’s ethics, you demonstrate that you’re not just looking for any job, but that you’re genuinely interested in contributing to this specific organization.
3. Analyse the Job Description: Identifying Key Requirements
Carefully read the job description to understand what the company is looking for in a candidate. Pay close attention to the specific skills, qualifications, and experiences they mention. This step is crucial for ensuring that your application is tailored to the role.
4. Use Keywords Strategically: Passing the Initial Screening
In many companies, the first person (or rather, entity) to read your CV might not be human—it could be an Applicant Tracking System (ATS). These systems are designed to filter applications by scanning for specific keywords that match the job description.
To increase your chances of passing this initial screening:
Identify Keywords: Extract key terms and phrases from the job description, particularly those that describe essential skills and qualifications.
Incorporate Keywords: Naturally integrate these keywords into your CV and cover letter. Make sure they fit seamlessly into your descriptions of your skills and experiences.
By doing this, you ensure that your application not only resonates with human readers but also passes the automated screening process.
With a clear understanding of both yourself and the company, you are now ready to start writing. Tailoring your CV and cover letter to the specific job and company shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the role. This customization can make a significant difference in how your application is perceived.
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A Student’s Guide to CV and Cover Letter Writing in Finland (2): Write your CV
A Student’s Guide to CV and Cover Letter Writing in Finland (3): Write your Cover Letter