Job application

Frequently asked questions

• What belongs to an application?

  In an advertisement for a job it is often stated which individual documents you should submit with your application. Normally an application consists of the following parts: – Cover letter: In the cover letter, you briefly tell us who you are and how you got your job. You should also mention why you want to work for the company. Some companies also want a letter of motivation from you. In a letter of motivation you emphasize why you are the right person for this job and what motivation you have to work in this company. – Curriculum vitae: In your curriculum vitae you list data on your professional career in tabular form. Common components are: personal data, school career, professional career and further qualifications. Further qualifications include for example language skills, driver’s license, volunteer work and knowlegde of software or hardware. – Qualification certificates: With the qualification certificates you attach everything that could be interesting for the profession you are applying for. These are above all training certificates, job references, (university) school leaving certificates and certificates of participation. – Work samples: For some professions it is useful to submit samples of work. Graphic artists, for example, then send drafts that they have designed. Work samples should show the employer in advance what you can do. Templates for the individual components can be found further down on this page.   

• Which computer programs can I use to create an application?

  Many people use the programs from Microsoft Office to create an application. However, these programs cost money. There are also free programs that work similarly. Examples are Open Office or Libre Office. 

• Is there someone who can help me with the preparation of the application documents?

  There are several services that can assist you in creating an application. There is for example the consulting café in the “Buchte”, the job café the “Beratungspier”, but also many other offers which you can find at the bottom of this page. We have also compiled some templates for you under “Where can I find templates and tips on how to apply?

• How do I submit an application?

  Read the announcement of the employer carefully. Most of the time it says whether you should send the application digitally by e-mail or by post. If you send your application digitally by e-mail, make sure to collect all documents in one PDF file. If the advertisement does not state how the application should be submitted or if you are applying on your own initiative, it is best to ask the employer how you should submit the application.

• What happens after I have sent the application?

  If you have submitted an application, you will usually receive feedback. It may take some time until you receive this feedback. If you have not received feedback after several weeks, you should ask the employer. In most cases you will then receive either an invitation to an interview or a rejection.

• What do I have to consider when I go to a job interview?

  It is important to arrive on time for the interview. You should wear good clothes for the interview. It is also advisable to bring a printed copy of the application documents with you. If you are unsure, ask someone for support.

• What is Xing / Linked In?

  Xing or Linked In are online portals that are often used in a professional context. Here you can list your qualifications in your profile and indicate in which area you are looking for a job. The portals thus function like a digital resume.  

• Where can I find templates and tips on how to apply?

  You will find online some templates and tips for your application documents. However, you should never adopt these patterns completely, but always adapt them individually. Templates from karrierebibel.de.