3 First things first pplying for a job can seem very daunting, but the actual process can be broken down into several easy stages. To make a good, convincing application, the basic things you have to do are: 1 Find out what skills, qualities and abilities the job requires. 2 Match those skills, qualities and abilities with your own. 3 Prepare examples of how, when and where you have demonstrated them in the past. 4 Present those skills, qualities and abilities clearly and confidently both in writing and verbally. 5 Demonstrate in your presentation, appearance and behaviour the personal qualities required. Whether you are planning your long-term career, looking for your first job, answering advertised vacancies or applying on spec through your network, the fundamental process is the same. The aim of a job application, from CV to interview, is to convince an employer that you can do the job. If you follow all the steps outlined above, every- one you contact should be able to grasp immediately that you understand exactly what the job requires and that you have the skills, qualities and experience to do it. 1 A Preparing for your job search To go through these steps requires thought, planning and groundwork. As a bonus, though, the confidence and assurance that you gain from preparing thoroughly will