So, there's this one question that just stumps everyone: "Why did you apply?". We all know that “I need a job” isn’t the right response, but what is it that employers are actually looking for? The truth is, they ask you to get a peek into what sort of person you are. Understanding your motivations for applying are just as, if not more important, than your skills and experience for some employers.
That's it. If you ignore this question, it’s highly unlikely you’ll progress to the next stage. If it’s an optional question on an application, do not ignore it under any circumstances!
The odd typo is not the end of the world, but how would you feel if we'd got your name wrong?
Every employer wants to know that you actually want to work for them, and haven't just clicked Easy Apply without a second thought (as tempting as it is!).
By this we mean there's just no need to use elaborate vocab or write an essay (as flattering as it is that you have 10 pages of reasons). Just be you.
Nothing extensive, just enough to show you've read the job spec properly, perhaps had a glance at the company website.
Explaining why you feel you're right for the job isn't quite the same as why you want to work for them - even if you want to showcase how great you are.
Treat job hunting like dating. If you asked a match on a dating app why they swiped right for you, you’d want to see they’re into you, right?
Copying and pasting from Chat GPT means your answer stands out less as it's bizarrely similar to someone else's.