Help Completing a Job Application.....

[AnnieBeansMum]

Hi everyone,

I am applying for an administrative position with the Canadian government and I am absolutely horrible at selling myself on job applications. Please can someone help?

The two questions I have:

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1.

Do you have experience in providing administrative support services?
If you answer Yes: Describe in 200 words or less, and using concrete examples, how you acquired your experience.

And I have answered:

I have been employed in an Administrative capacity since 2004 and am continually seeking to increase my skill set. My understanding of administrative tasks was fostered during my time as a Receptionist, Accounts Assistant and Sales Administrator. As the sole administrator at Houses 2 Order, I quickly began to appreciate the organization and dedication required to be successful. Whilst employed as the Office Manager for [employer name], my administrative experience was vastly improved. As we were a small team, I was ultimately responsible for all aspects of administration; including answering telephones, dealing with incoming and outgoing mail, assisting customers and clients and organizing databases and filing to ensure comprehensive record keeping. In addition, I was instrumental in the creation of a bespoke lettings database which successfully improved the functionality of the office.

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2.

Do you have experience in the use of various software programs such as: Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook, Power Point?
If you answer Yes: Describe in 200 words or less, and using concrete examples, how you acquired your experience.

I haven't completed this one yet, but I am very very comfortable with all aspects of Office as well as various database programs.

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Please, someone help me gather my thoughts?? I have been unemployed for 3 months and I need a job asap.

anyone???

Hi I'm the same as you and find it really hard to sell myself. I've been applying for lots of jobs recently so have been perfecting my approach and am 'in the zone' as it were...

I think what you have is a good start - how about refining it a bit to provide clear examples of your experience? Maybe something like:

Having been employed in an Administrative capacity since 2004, my knowledge, skills and experience are varied and include:

• Creating a bespoke lettings database, which improved the functionality and efficiency of the office [can you explain how? eg making it easier to respond to enquiries quickly]
• Managing an administrative team to ensure smooth running of the office
• Managing office communications and customer enquiries for example telephone enquiries, dealing with incoming and outgoing mail etc

I've guessed at the above from your post but I'm sure you will be able to think of some better examples from your previous jobs - try to pick ones which match the job spec for this job.

For question 2 I'd put something like:

With 6 years of administrative experience, I am computer literate and proficient in MS office (Outlook, Word, Excel, Access, Powerpoint, Publisher and Project) and comfortable using existing IT systems.

Then add a few examples such as using access to create the bespoke letting database or preparing reports using word or presentations using powerpoint etc

Hope this helps - it's horrible doing job applications...good luck!

Thanks for your help Jcee! Great suggestions. :)