What does a recruiter want to see in a job application? An HR professional gives tips to job seekers

Recruitment specialist Jasmiina Kumpulainen from Basso HR Oy lists tips for job seekers on how to stand out when applying for a job. Having reviewed thousands of job applications, Kumpulainen knows that job seekers need support in describing their skills, preparing for job interviews, and learning more about things like video applications and the use of artificial intelligence in job hunting.

Currently, a single job advertisement can attract hundreds of applications. Kumpulainen emphasizes that job seekers traditionally stand out in the first stage of the application process with a job application that shows their commitment to the position they are applying for.

— If you are applying for a job using a form, for example, it is important to fill in every section of the form, even if it feels tedious. If the application is left blank, it may be rejected immediately if there are a large number of applicants, says Kumpulainen.

It is worth putting effort into your application with a view to the future, as the same job applications may be reviewed later if a new position becomes available at the employer. If you find it difficult to write your application, it is a good idea to ask a friend who is enthusiastic about writing or a job coach for tips. Can job seekers stand out by calling the workplace after submitting their application?

— It's always a good idea to call if you have any questions about a job advertisement. But if you don't have any questions, there's no need to call; your application is sufficient. If I have a good feeling about the phone call, I'll note that on the job application. Recruiters are often busy, so it's not necessarily a good idea to call without a specific reason, says Kumpulainen.

It is important for job seekers to also consider the employer's perspective and think about areas where they would be willing to be flexible.  

— For example, when applying for summer or seasonal work, it is not a good idea to immediately provide a long list of times when you do not want to work. Such requests can be an obstacle to progressing further in the interview process if there are many applicants, Kumpulainen notes.

Can artificial intelligence be used to correct job searches?

Kumpulainen recommends using artificial intelligence (AI) only for tasks such as checking spelling or improving the structure of a job application.

Recruitment professionals handle so many applications every day that they can immediately recognize texts produced by AI. I do not recommend copying text produced by AI. Using AI may not necessarily help you stand out in a good way, Kumpulainen notes.

So how can you impress a recruiter? Kumpulainen encourages you to stick to the basics: create an application for the job in question and highlight your motivation for the job in your application and, if possible, in the job interview.  

— In your job application, explain why you want this particular job and why you would be a good choice for the position. This always makes a good impression. I also encourage you to be yourself when applying for a job, because that is who you will be at your future workplace. Another important thing for young job seekers is the ability to answer the phone. Always answer calls from numbers you don't recognize with your own name, Kumpulainen says.

Video job applications are used to find the right person

According to Kumpulainen, the most common mistakes in job applications that are easy to avoid are spelling mistakes and photos that have been edited using filters. Video job applications may be used especially when personality is particularly important in the job. Making a video application may be more nerve-wracking than usual. Kumpulainen says that a little nervousness is good, as it keeps your senses alert in an important situation.

— Video applications are often used to see what you are like and how you present yourself. It is a good idea to keep the basics in mind when making a video, i.e., behave as you would at work, says Kumpulainen.