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EDEXCEL BTEC

WorkSkillsLevel One

Assignment 6

Unit 6: Applying for a Job

Candidate:

Assessor:

Start Date:

Deadline Date:

Submission Date:

Assignment 6 - Unit 6: Applying for a job

QCF Level: Level 1

Credit value: 1Guided learning hours: 10

Unit Aims

The various methods of applying for a job differ in their requirements and the type of information requested of the applicant. The focus of this unit is for learners to understand how to apply for a range of job vacancies but they will only need to actually apply for one job to achieve the unit. Learners will gain an understanding of how and when different types of methods are used for applying for employment.

They will find out how to gather the relevant information to support a job application and will also look at the importance of presenting job application information in an appropriate and accurate way.

Learning Outcomes and Assessment Criteria

In order to pass this unit, the evidence that the learner presents for assessment needs to demonstrate that they can meet all of the learning outcomes for the unit.

The assessment criteria describe the level of achievement required to meet the learning outcomes.

Learning OutcomesThe learner will:

Assessment CriteriaThe learner can:

1 Understand different methods of applying for jobs.

1.1 Describe different methods of applying for a job.

1.2 Describe how and when different methods of applying for a job are used.

2 Be able to complete a job application form. 2.1 Identify the information needed to prepare the job application form.

2.2 Assemble the relevant information for the job application form.

3 Be able to apply for a job using the appropriate method.

3.1 Describe the conventions, formats and styles of presenting information in job applications (for either a real or simulated job application).

3.2 Present the job application informationaccurately and in a suitable format.

©Learn About Version 1 2012 WorkSkills L1 of 22

Unit content

1 Understand different methods of applying for jobsDifferent methods of applying: different formats for applications eg application forms, CVs, covering letters, applications via a website, applying in person; method of applying may be linked to the type of job eg requirement to provide covering letter may suggest job role requires good communication or written skills, use of online application form may suggest job role requires basic computer skills.

2 Be able to complete a job application formRequirements for job application: different types of information needed for a job application eg personal details, skills, previous work experience, education and training; knowing which items of personal information to include and what to leave out eg age, gender, address, telephone number; knowing whether you are eligible to work in the country legally; recognising that certain items of information fit certain parts of the job application form; using templates and examples as a guideline.

3 Be able to apply for a job using the appropriate methodApply for a job using an appropriate method: including only relevant and appropriate information; following accepted guidelines for the format and content of a CV, following accepted guidelines for the format and content of a covering letter.

DeliveryThe unit has been designed to make delivery of the key topics practically based wherever possible.The tutor could start delivery of this unit by providing a range of job application forms and CV templates of a suitable level for learners working at Level 1. Learners could work in groups to think about the information they will need to prepare to be able to complete them. Alternatively, learners could collect different application forms for different jobs. They could telephone, email or write to request the forms.

Examples of covering letters could be provided. Learners could work in groups to produce a checklist of the information to be provided in a covering letter.

As part of learning outcome 1, a question and answer session could determine reasons why different methods of applying for job are used. For example, some employers will want to see more of a learner’s ability to express themselves in writing hence a request for a CV and covering letter, whilst other employers will simply need to see the learner’s experience to date with some writing on an application form.

Reasons raised in the question and answer session could be collated on a board/flipchart.

For learning outcome 2, learners could work independently to collect the information required to complete a job application. The job application may be real or simulated, and can either have been chosen by the learner or given to them.

However, the learner and the tutor must discuss and agree that this is a suitable job based on the learner’s skills and interests, so that the application is relevant to them.


Learners may be given a CV template and a template for a covering letter into which they can put their personal information.

Guest speakers could be invited to speak to learners about the importance of correctly presenting information on applications forms, CVs and covering letters and correctly following specific instructions.

Learners should be encouraged to practise presenting applications appropriately and discuss with their tutor any concerns they may have so that they are able to present documents in a format which is suitable for the employer. They should also be encouraged to proofread their job applications for accuracy, using resources such as a spellchecker, peers or friends.

AssessmentTo achieve 1.1, the learner needs to give clear details about two different ways to apply for a job.

For 1.2, the learner will need to explain how and when each of the two different ways to apply for a job (described in 1.1) are used.

For 2.1, the learner should identify the information they need in order to prepare their job application form or for use in a CV with covering letter. The learner may receive guidance in finding the relevant information but must be able to extract it independently.

For 2.2, the learner will need to allocate the identified information to the appropriate part of the job application document or documents. They may discuss and agree with the tutor how best to use the identified information. However, the learner must subsequently be able make their own decisions regarding how to use the information in their job application. The learner at this level may use a CV template into which they can put their personal information. They may also use a template for a covering letter, but must show independence in being able to fill in the sectionscorrectly.

For 3.1, the learner will need to describe the usual way of presenting information so that it is legible, concise, clearly understood by the employer and follows specific instructions given in the job application method.

To achieve 3.2, the job application should be presented accurately with care and attention paid to correct spelling, grammar (and legibility of handwriting if used). Where information is submitted electronically, learners should be familiar with the use of formatting and the spellchecker. The final application document should show that the learner understands the importance of using relevant information when filling in application documentation. If a covering letter is included, it should cover the relevant aspects of the job such as why the learner is applying and how theymeet the criteria of the job description.

Essential resourcesExamples of real or simulated job application forms and examples of other job application documents such as CVs and covering letters.

Websiteswww.direct.gov.uk/en/Employment/Jobseekers/LookingForWorkwww.direct.gov.uk/en/YoungPeople/Workandcareers/Gettingyourfirstjob


Purpose of a CV

The main aim of a Curriculum Vitae (CV) is to present you in an accurate and positive light, to encourage the prospective employer to find out more and to get you an interview. Your CV needs to be simple, easy to read and lastly it must sell you.

Your CV must sell you to a prospective employer and compete against other applicants who are trying to sell themselves. So the challenge in CV writing is to be more appealing and attractive than the rest. This means that your CV must be presented professionally, clearly and in a way that indicates you are the ideal candidate for the job i.e. you possess the right skills, experience, behaviour and attitude that the employer is seeking.

Lying on a CV is a risky strategy, especially about qualifications. You should avoid any such temptation. Better to be proud and confident of who you are and emphasise your strengths and achievements.

CV Preparation

Start by writing down all the details of your career including:

Job Titles Starting and finishing dates of each job. Do not leave any gaps, if you were unemployed,

did you travel, do voluntary work or raise a family during this time? Duties & responsibilities Achievements – give examples of results that you are proud of, such as “I achieved sales

person of the month consecutively for 3 months” Skills i.e. word processing. Education – Name of School, University, Qualifications and other training courses attended

The standard layout of a CV would be as follows:-

Personal Details – Full name, address, phone number, email address and date of birth Personal Profile – This is your opportunity to really sell yourself to an employer. Include

skills, your ability to work in a team as well as on your own, you always meet targets and enjoy challenges.

Employment History – List your employment starting with the most recent position first. Include the name of the company, dates of employment, job title, responsibilities and any achievements.

Education, training & qualifications – List all education details from secondary school onwards. List the exams passed with the dates and location.

Hobbies & other interests – Keep it brief and factual; try to show hobbies that would use the underlining skills needed for the job. This section should be a maximum of a few lines.

References – Try and include two referees. Make sure you ask them first.

Do not treat your first CV as final. It will take several attempts before you may be fully happy with it and remember to keep it up to date!


Presentation

The maximum size of your CV should be two sides of A4 paper, so decide what the most relevant points are for the position you are applying for. For a position that is very specialised or specific it is better to tailor your CV with information that is relevant to that company.

Keep it simple and easy to read Make it interesting Ensure key information stands out Sell yourself in your personal profile Use headings to help employers locate the information they want Use bullet points that focus on key information rather than waffle Do not use binders, covers or title pages Remember keep it short, no more than two A4 pages

Content and Layout

Be honest, this information is likely to form the basis of your interview and hopefully your employment

State facts rather than make claims Stress special skills

Try to stay away from writing Curriculum Vitae at the top of the page; it is obvious to employers what the document is.

Making the most of your References

Before selecting someone to use as a referee, check they are in agreement and will provide you with a satisfactory reference

Tell your referees to expect calls and letters You referees need to know what you are saying about yourself so they can emphasis the

points you think are important – so send them a copy of your CV Ask them for a copy of the reference where possible Future employers may want a reference from your previous employer, but this does not

always have to be from your boss. Another senior manager or member of staff who valued your contribution might be a better referee.


CV Words and Phrases for your Personal Profile

Mix and match words and phrases to project yourself, and also to reflect what you believe the job requires. Some examples of phrases are below:

results-driven, logical and methodical approach to achieving tasks and objectives determined and decisive; uses initiative to develop effective solutions to problems reliable and dependable - high personal standards and attention to detail methodical and rigorous approach to achieving tasks and objectives entrepreneurial and pro-active - strong drive and keen business mind identifies and develops opportunities; innovates and makes things happen determined and decisive; uses initiative to meet and resolve challenges strives for quality and applies process and discipline towards optimising performance extremely reliable and dependable - analytical and questioning, strives for quality methodical approach to planning and organising - good time-manager excellent interpersonal skills - good communicator, leadership, high integrity strong planning, organising and monitoring abilities - an efficient time-manager self-driven and self-reliant - sets aims and targets and leads by example good interpersonal skills - works well with others, motivates and encourages high integrity, diligent and conscientious - reliable and dependable self-aware - always seeking to learn and grow seeks new responsibilities irrespective of reward and recognition emotionally mature and confident - a calming influence detailed and precise; fastidious and thorough decisive and results-driven; creative problem-solver good starter - enthusiastic in finding openings and opportunities creative and entrepreneurial networker - effective project coordinator reliable and dependable in meeting objectives - hard-working emotionally mature; calming and positive temperament; tolerant and understanding seeks and finds solutions to challenges - exceptionally positive attitude great team-worker - adaptable and flexible well-organised; good planner; good time-manager seeks new responsibilities and uses initiative; self-sufficient solid approach to achieving tasks and objectives; determined and decisive excellent interpersonal skills - good communicator, high integrity energetic and physically very fit; quick to respond to opportunities and problems active and dynamic approach to work and getting things done financially astute - conversant with accounting systems and principles tactical, strategic and proactive - anticipates and takes initiative systematic and logical - develops and uses effective processes good listener - caring and compassionate critical thinker - strong analytical skills; accurate and probing good researcher - creative and methodical - probing and resourceful persistent and tenacious sales developer; comfortable with demanding targets team-player - loyal and determined technically competent/qualified [state discipline or area, to whatever standard or level] task-oriented - commercially experienced and aware excellent inter-personal and communications skills


sound planning and organisational capabilities results oriented - focused on productive and high-yield activities tolerant and understanding - especially good with young children/elderly people/needy

people/disadvantaged people, etc emotionally mature - calming and positive temperament - compassionate and caring sensitive and patient interpersonal and communication skills high integrity and honesty; ethical and socially aware energetic and positive outlook, which often inspires others calm, reliable and dependable in meeting objectives - logical and numerate seeks and finds good outcomes to challenges adaptable and flexible; well-organised planner and scheduler seeks new responsibilities and uses initiative; self-sufficient

For each statement that you use, ask yourself the question that the interviewer might ask:

“…you’re CV says that you are (phrase you have used). Can you give me an example of this in your work experience?”

Obviously this list is not exhaustive. Hopefully the examples provide some ideas around which you can develop your own descriptions.

Select words, phrases and develop statements that emphasise your strengths and capabilities and that reflect the requirements of the job, interviewer and employer.

Use punctuation and conjunctions (words that join words or word-strings, 'and' being the most obvious example) to form elegant statements that look well-balanced and are easy to read.

Select, adapt and compose your statements with care. Get help and feedback (from positive people) to help you produce statements that really work well for you.


CV example 1

John Saunders104 Talbot Close

NewportNP88 7QL

06973 872952

[email protected]

Personal ProfilePossess good communications skills, an effective thinker, team player, co-ordinator, computer literate and self-motivated. I am looking to develop my career in a suitable environment, which will allow me to utilise the full extent of my skills developed throughout my past employment and education. I am friendly, outgoing and a positive person with a genuine and honest nature who is committed to my work and the company.

Employment HistoryComputers R Us Sales Representative October 2003 – Present

As a Sales Representative, my main duties are to contact businesses throughout South Wales, Gloucestershire and London to sell Government funded IT training. As a key member of the sales team I have been responsible for a considerable growth in the business, helping to expand our contracts and generating the Computers R Us identity throughout South Wales the South West and South East of England. Wheelies Direct Insurance Claims Handler January 2003 – October 2003

This job involved replacing stolen or damaged bicycles for policyholders. My role was to contact customers and discuss replacement cycle options and sell upgrades at any given possibility. Targets were set and achieved with a professional manner.

Contact III Campaign Call Handler May 2002 – January 2003The role as a Campaign Call Handling Agent, involved demonstrating excellent customer service and selling skills converting enquiries into sales. Due to the targeted age group, people skills were essential. Individual targets were set and achieved and as part of my own development I also expressed an interest in training. I achieved knowledge designing and delivering training as well as suggesting any improvements, which I thought, would benefit other agents.

Education & TrainingComputers R Us

2006: Installing and Supporting Information Technology Systems NVQ Level 2

2006: Installing and Supporting Information Technology Systems NVQ Level 3

2006: Diploma for IT Practitioners Level 2

2006: Advanced Diploma for IT Practitioners Level 3

ACO Training

1995: Business Administration NVQ Level 2


Additional InformationIn 1996 I worked on a summer camp called camp Loyaltown in New York. My job role was camp counsellor; the job involved caring for people who needed constant supervision. I helped with day-to-day activities such as art, swimming and pottery. I found this a demanding but very enjoyable experience.

In 1995 I attended the Princes Trust Volunteers for 3 months. This scheme involved working in a holiday home for people with disabilities, caring for underprivileged children, team building, fundraising and outdoor activities.

Hobbies and interestsI enjoy reading, art, travelling, watching films, mountain biking and going to the gym. I also have a varied taste in music.

ReferencesReferences available on request


CV example 2

Geoff Evans49 Kent Street

NewportCF44 7AA

Tel: 01633 246891Mob: 07752748961

Date of Birth: 00/00/00

Personal Profile

I am a reliable, friendly person, who is willing to learn new skills and I can communicate well with people. I like to be organised in my work and I possess good literacy and numeracy skills. I am computer literate and confident in all Microsoft packages. I can use my initiative and work with minimum supervision and I also enjoy working as part of a team. I am looking to obtain employment where I can utilise my IT experience and customer service skills.

Work Experience

Hilton Hotel February 2010 to Present

I received work experience based within the Finance Department of the hotel. During my time there I performed the following duties, which enabled me to gain and develop new skills. Some of these are:

Updating various spreadsheets for the Department Data inputting of orders and invoices Printing of reports and checking data is correct Counting the money on a daily basis from cash payments made Filing of cheques Checking of refund documents in order to match against payments refunded including credit cards Updating spreadsheet of revenue which includes telephone, internet, films, car parking, minibar

and laundry General admin duties where required within the Finance Department

Cardiff Primary, May 2007

I received work experience based at the above Primary school. During my time there I carried out the following duties:

Organised activities for children Helped groups of children with their reading sessions Taught children mathematics Encouraged children to be confident


Training

Learnabout – March 2010 to Present

I am currently working towards the following qualifications:Edexcel BTEC Level 2 Certificate in Work skills.

Learnabout - December 2009 – March 2010

City and Guilds NVQ Level 1 in I.T Users qualification which included the following units: Word Processing Excel Spreadsheets PowerPoint Presentation

City and Guilds Key skills Level 1

Ystrad Mynach College. September 2008 – June 2009

First Diploma in Travel and Tourism and Key Skills Level 2

Education

Comprehensive School, September 2003 – July 2008

I obtained GCSE Qualifications in the following subjects: English Language English Literature Mathematics Science Information Technology

Hobbies and Interests

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with family and friends; I also enjoy meeting new people socially and in a working environment. I also enjoy using the computer to search the internet and communicate with friends.

References

Reference 1 Reference 2


CV example 3J O E B L O G G S

10 Wentworth Court . Ty Canal . Cwmbran . Torfaen . NP44 [email protected] . Tel: 07862 285282

PROFILE

An enthusiastic, self motivated, flexible and reliable individual. Exceptional high level communication skills with the ability to remain focused and positive in all circumstances. A good sense of humour and an asset to any team or organisation. Excellent business acumen, self confident, hard working, extremely trustworthy, conscientious and self motivated. Enthusiastic, very professional, quick learner, adaptable, enjoys a challenge and loves to train and see other succeed.

KEY SKILLS

Excellent CommunicationOrganisational

AdministrationProblem Solving

ITProjection and forecasting

WORK EXPERIENCE

2008 to date Warehouse Operative: ASDA, Cwmbran

Maintaining and adhering to Health and Safety at work Replenishing shelves Customer services Monitoring stock control Overseeing outgoing and incoming deliveries Working to a strict timetable Projecting lane requirements throughout the day IT data input and paperwork

EDUCATION

2009 to 2010 Learnabout Work skills Key Skills AON Level 2 Key skills COM Level 2 Key skills ICT Level 2

2000 to 2009 Newport High School GCSE English C GCSE Maths C GCSE History C GCSE IT C GCSE Geography D GCSE PE D

INTERESTS

I love socialising, spending time with my friends and family, keep fit and web site design.


mailto:[email protected]

Letter Writing

This section applies to both speculative letters or in reply to an advert.

Your letter is likely to arrive at the same time as many others competing for the same vacancy, so first impressions really matter. Employers need to decide if they want to meet you or reject you, and they will base their initial assessment on the look, style and content of your letter.

You cannot get away with sending the same standard letter to all companies. You need to tailor each letter by promoting different aspects of your skills or experience according to what each employer is looking for.

Sell Yourself

Highlight all the features that show how suitable you are for an employer. Stress the positive aspects of your CV and never refer to any negatives.

If you are applying for a particular job, show how well you match their requirements by using similar (not identical) phrases to the key words in their advertisement.

1

What to include

2

What to say

3

How to say it

4

The end product

Underline the skills in the advert and make sure you have shown them in your letter.

Be positive and emphasise why you are perfect for the job.

Suggested layout:

First – summarise your skills and experience, outline why you want the job.

Keep it brief and to the point.

Then – State when you will be free for an interview.

Be sure to include your name, address and phone number and the date.

Enclose a copy of your CV.

Be clear. Do not use a long word if a short one will do.

If you have been unemployed for a while say how you spend your time, for example further education, voluntary work etc.

Be honest.

Keep to the facts and try not to oversell yourself.

Include a reference number if provided in the advertisement job details. Enter it below the opening line,

e.g. Dear Mr....

Re: Job Ref 123

Try to find out the name of the person you need to write to.

If you start with

Dear Sir/Madam

end with

Yours faithfully

If you start with

Dear Mr Smith

end with

Yours sincerely

Double check your spelling and grammar before sending the letter.

The letter should be a maximum of one page.

Be neat – whether hand-written or typed. Leave plenty of space around the edges and a clear space between each paragraph or section.

Use decent quality plain paper, envelopes and pen.

Check against your rough copy to make sure you have not missed anything.

Sign the letter.

Keep a copy of the letter for your own record.

Make sure your application arrives on time. If it is late it might not even be considered and your time will have been wasted.


Example Job Vacancy Letter

Today’s Date

Mr Roberts Your Name PC Computers Ltd Your Address321 George Street Phone NumberCardiffCF10 3NQ

Dear Mr Roberts

Re: Job Ref 7931

I am writing to apply for the job advertised in today’s Western Mail for Junior IT technician.

For the past 6 months I have been studying with Learnabout to complete my WorkSkills and Btec IT User Level 1 qualification and I am now looking for full time employment.

I have recently completed a work placement at DAZ Computers and I have had experience doing the following tasks:

Finding faults Repairing PC’s Networking Installing hardware & software

I enjoy working in groups as well as on my own. I’m positive, self-motivated, pro-active and enjoy a challenge.

I am available for interview at any time and could start work immediately. References are available from my present tutor and work placement provider.

Please find enclosed a copy of my CV for your consideration.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely,

John Saunders

Example speculative letter


Notes

1. Explains purpose of letter2. Outline skills, experience and enthusiasm for the job3. States when you’re available for interview4. States enclosure of CV and ends on a positive note 5. Always have a clear start, middle and end to the letter6. Remember if you start with Dear Sir, end with Yours faithfully

Today’s Date

Your NameYour AddressYour Contact details

Dear Mrs Morgan

Re: Job vacancies

I am enquiring as to the possibility of vacancies in your Administration department.

Having recently completed an IT User NVQ qualification and being proficient with using Microsoft Office software, I believe I would be an asset to your company.

I am competent, hard working and reliable, with a positive attitude. I believe I would be able to benefit your company by performing general office tasks as well as using various Microsoft office programmes.

Enclosed is a copy of my curriculum vitae for your consideration.

I look forward to your response in the near future and would welcome the opportunity to be able to discuss any points in person.

Yours sincerely,

John Saunders


Assignment 6 - Unit 6: Applying for a Job

There are various methods of applying for a job and each way differs to the requirements and the employer. The focus of these tasks is for you to understand how to apply for a range of job vacancies. You will also gain an understanding of how and when different types of methods are used for applying for employment and how to gather the relevant information to support a job application.

Task 1

1.1 & 1.2 During a group discussion lead by your tutor explore different methods of applying for a job e.g application forms, CVs, covering letters, applications via a website, applying in person.

Working as a group think about methods of applying e.g. requirement to provide covering letter may suggest job role requires good communication or written skills, use of online application form may suggest job role requires basic computer skills. Some employers will want to see more of a learner’s ability to express themselves in writing hence a request for a CV and covering letter, whilst other employers will simply need to see the learner’s experience to date with some writing on an application form.

Using the table below complete all sections.Job title 1: Call Centre OperatorDescribe method of applying for this job

Describe different methods of how you would apply for this job.

Describe different methods of when you apply for this job .

Job title 2: AdministratorDescribe method of applying for this job

Describe different methods of how you would apply for this job.

Describe different methods of when you apply for this job .


Task 2

2.1 Looking at a variety of job application forms and CVs provided to you by your tutor, complete a mind map identifying what information is needed to prepare for a job application form or CV e.g personal details, skills, previous work experience, education and training. Think also about knowing which items of personal information to include and what to leave out eg age, gender, address, telephone number; knowing whether you are eligible to work in the country legally.

2.2 Complete the following: Application form by hand Create a CV via a computer Generic covering letter via a computer

Task 3

3.1 When completing certain documents you have to use an appropriate method e.g including only relevant and appropriate information, following accepted guidelines for the format and content of a CV, following accepted guidelines for the format and content of a covering letter, present information so that it is legible, concise, clearly understood by the employer and follows specificinstructions given in the job application method.

Based on your application form, CV and covering letter you completed in task 2 complete the table below.

Describe the conventions, formats and styles you used for presenting the information in your job application form, CV and covering letter and why.


3.2 Spell and grammar check your application form, CV and covering letter, sign and submit to your tutor.


BTEC Level 1 in Work Skills Assessment Feedback Form

Unit 6 – Applying for a Job

Assessment Criteria Ref/page number

1.1 Describe different methods of applying for a job

1.2 Describe how and when different methods of applying for a job are used

2.1 Identify the information needed to prepare the job application formMind mapping document

2.2 Assemble the relevant information for the job application form

3.1 Describe the conventions, formats and styles of presenting information in job applications (for either a real or simulated job application)

3.2 Present the job application information accurately and in a suitable format Application form CV Generic covering letter

BOLD (evidence requirements).


Learner Feedback:

Assessor Feedback:

Action Plan:

Candidate Name: Date:

Candidate Sign: Date:

Assessor Name: Date:

Assessor Sign: Date:

IV Name: Date:

IV Sign: Date:


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