Job application by post or email.

[andrea81]

I'm applying for a job with my local Council but the application can either be sent by post or email. I know it shouldn't make a difference as they have given this option, but I can't decide what is best.

On one hand I think by post is more personal and looks as if I've gone to more effort, plus they can see that I have legible handwriting.

Other hand by email shows I'm computer literate!

Any opinions???

[Lakitu]

The chances are they'd prefer if it was electronic in the name of the environment, but have the snail mail option knowing tat not everyone has access to a PC or an internet connection :)

[andrea81]

Good point! If I did that, should I put a read receipt on it?

[Sasha13]

Send by email and ask them politely to confirm receipt as read receipts don't always work when sending to external companies.

[Postdog]

Just read this. I would NEVER consider applying for a job by email as it smacks of laziness and sloppiness. Online application is a different thing, and that is OK, but email is so throwaway, and some places wouldn't entertain it at all.

[andrea81]

Postdog

If they give this option, would that not constitute them feeling ok with applications by email?

I'm so confused now as my first thought was by post! Really don't know what to do now!

Help!

[Lakitu]

Sorry andrea, I haven't come back tot his thread until now.

Postdog, my Company encourages, and prefers, electronic applicants - all in the name of the 'environment'

Andrea, the inbox the appicants will send to will be managed by a clerical assistant or the likes, I'm pretty sure there will be no problem if you request confirmation of receipt. x

[andrea81]

My thoughts are telling me that they wouldn't give that option if they didn't like it! And surely they can't hold it against me if they gave the option!

[Lakitu]

About 6 years ago, I was temping for a housing association and the job I was covering was being advertised with an option of e-submission as well as snail mail.

Most people asked for confirmation of receipt and I didn't mind doing that in the slightest. They won't hold it against you for wanting confirmation, don't worry x

[andrea81]

Cheers, do appreciate. I really want this job so I want to get everything right. ;0))))

[Sasha13]

Bit late for this but I have worked for several blue chip companies (as a Recruitment Manager) and have always prefered applications by email. If, however, you send exactly the same email to 50 companies, that's where you'll be rejected. Tailor it to the specific role.

It's better for the environment, easier to keep on file and cheaper to get back in touch with the candidate.

[Jugglering]

I'd agree with the others, if they have indicated the application can be made by post or by e-mail, then go for whatever is more convenient for you. My employer also encourages e-mail applications - less paperwork for the HR department !

[wowyfoss]

Hi, i recently applied to my local council by e-application and was invited to interview, so i would just go for it. with local government they generally will interview those who can show they fit the job spec.