Application documents check from the application folder to the order of your documents
Job applications check: which documents to include and in what order
1 min read
Nobody sends applications by post any more – or do they? In fact, around 30 per cent of companies still want graduates to submit traditional application documents[1]. So, let's give it to them! With our JobTeaser career advice, you know exactly which content to include in your application and what order to put it in. Here we go!
How should you present your documents?
When sending your application documents in the post, you can put them in a folder. Serving as a protective cover, the folder ensures that all the documents contained in your application land on the HR department's desk intact. And thankfully the structure and content of a written application isn't all that different from an application you'd send by e-mail. A cover letter, CV and references are the core documents.
What kind of folder should you use?
The way you present your documents is important when applying for a job. They are the first impression the recruiter will have of you, so you want to get off to a good start. From colour to design, there are plenty of folders to choose from. Here are some of the most popular options:
Clip file
Clip files are practical and professional-looking. They're hassle-free and don't cost the earth. No need to bother with punching holes in your lovingly created documents, just clip them straight in (but in the right order, of course)! Your cover letter should be the first document in your file. Clip files usually have a transparent cover, so recruiters will be able to see your cover letter straightaway and it's an immediate introduction to you as a candidate.
But watch out! Since clip files are so inexpensive, they don't have a super high-quality feel. Plus they're made of plastic, which isn't very eco-friendly.
Card presentation folders
There are two main types of presentation folder: ones that fold out into two parts, and ones that have three sections.
The two-section folders open up like a book and usually have a clip or pocket on one or both sides to keep your documents in place. You can attach your cover letter to the outside of the folder or inside on the left-hand side. And bonus: the material is much more up-market than plastic.
The three-section folders allow you to put your job application documents in a deliberate order: cover sheet on the left, cover letter in the middle and CV on the right with any other relevant documents behind it. This way of displaying your application documents is particularly impressive, but that might seem OTT to some recruiters.
5 tips: what colour folder should you choose?
When it comes to choosing the right folder for your job applications, colour can be an important factor along with folder type and material. Not sure which colour would make the most (professional) impact? The following five tips might come in handy:
Tip 1: Play it safe with muted colours
Dark blue, grey, burgundy, beige or black are the most commonly purchased colours when it comes to folders. This look is preferred by HR decision makers in most industries.
Tip 2: Stand out with a striking colour
Want your application to grab the recruiters' attention? Then opt for an accent colour that's a bit unusual (but not too loud, as this can be distracting and off-putting). Especially if you're going to apply for jobs that are creative, pushing the boat out a little on colour won't hurt. Just don't go overboard...
Tip 3: Step away from the white/cream
Some recruiters consider these colours to be nice, neutral options, while others don't consider white or cream application folders to be appropriate. So best to stay away from these colours altogether.
Tip 4: Match the folder to any colours in your CV
If you're using colour elements in your CV, like coloured borders or section dividers, you could choose a matching or complementary folder colour. If you're looking to find a job as a model, actor or other role in the entertainment or beauty industry where you may be required to submit a professional headshot, you might want to choose a folder colour that complements your photo. Remember that photos aren't standard practice for most applications, though. If your looks don't affect your ability to do the job, skip the photo!
Tip 5: Coordinate with the company colours
If you are unsure which colour is right for your application, you could incorporate the corporate design of the company you're applying to. This can help to emphasise that you're especially interested in working at that company.
What order should you put your documents in?
You've got a fancy application folder, now let's arrange your application documents in it. The structure of a classic job application is listed below.
What to include in a standard job application folder
| 1. | Cover letter | This is the first document in your application. It's there to introduce you, explain why you want the job and make a good first impression. |
| 2. | CV | Your CV comes next and lays out your qualifications and experience clearly and concisely. |
| SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS | ||
| 3. | Certificates | Copies of school, training or university certificates and transcripts |
| 4. | Letters of recommendation, references | From previous employers or people you have worked with |
| 5. | Samples of your work | Include samples of your work for industries/roles where this is required or expected. |
Should you include a list of supporting documents?
Depending on the job, you might end up including a variety of supporting documents: references, certificates or work samples. But what's the most logical order to put them in when preparing your application? You can generally sort everything in one of two ways:
- Chronologically – put everything in the order you completed it. Most certificates and references will be dated, so this should help.
- Thematically – order your documents according to the sections on your CV: certificates all together, all your references, all your work samples, etc.You could include a brief list at the beginning of your supporting documents section outlining everything you've included. This helps the recruiter navigate your application more easily, but only makes sense if you have lots of supporting documents. You can also include a list of what you've included as a P.S. on your cover letter (remember to include your CV in the list as your cover letter comes first).
You could include a brief list at the beginning of your supporting documents section outlining everything you've included. This helps the recruiter navigate your application more easily, but only makes sense if you have lots of supporting documents. You can also include a list of what you've included as a P.S. on your cover letter (remember to include your CV in the list as your cover letter comes first).
Application documents: check everything, then post them
As we know, the devil is in the detail. So, before popping your application in the post, go through everything one last time. Use our checklist to make sure everything's present and correct!
- Have you definitely got every document required for the application?
- Carefully check your cover letter, CV and anything else you've written for spelling errors and typos.
- Have you printed everything onto high-quality 100gsm paper?
- No creases, stains or dog ears?
- Has everything printed properly and neatly?
- Have you checked that your application documents are in the right order?
Ready to send off your application?
Whether you're sending by post or e-mail, are your application documents finished, sorted in the right order and ready to go? Then take a look on JobTeaser now to find your dream job. Just register on the JobTeaser platform or download the app.
Register with JobTeaser for free here!
[1] Source: https://de.statista.com/statistik/daten/studie/408875/umfrage/favorisierte-bewerbungswege-deutscher-unternehmen-von-hochschulabsolventen/
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