How to Get Invited for an Interview at Blinkist
Got the job application jitters? You’re not alone. But luckily for you, there are plenty of ways to ensure you submit a killer application, every time. In this series of articles, I’m going to let you in on the unwritten rules of recruitment that will increase your chances of getting a job at Blinkist — or anywhere else, for that matter! After all, recruitment is like a game — the better you know the rules, the more likely you are to win. Ready? Let’s go.
You only get one chance to make a first impression. How you present information on your CV and cover letter is crucial because:
- it’s the first thing that a recruiter sees
- that’s going to determine whether or not they invite you for an interview
Working on your application takes time but, trust me, it’s time well spent. Here are three things you can do to set yourself apart from other applicants.
1. Dare to Be Different
We receive dozens of applications every day. When we review your application, we want to get a sense of who you truly are, what makes you unique, and what you can bring to Blinkist that other candidates can’t. How are you going to pique our curiosity and convince us that we should take the time to talk to you? By being different. Dare to show your real authentic self in order to stand out from the crowd.
✨ How To Do It ✨
Tell us your story and get creative! Write a bio or summary at the top of your resume, mention the values you stand for in your application, add your hobbies and side projects on your CV.
2. Channel your Inner Designer
A well-designed CV isn’t a prerequisite to a successful application, but it can be the icing on the cake that separates good applications from great ones. Not only does design help attract attention towards your application, but it also enhances the quality of the message you’re trying to convey.
✨ How To Do It ✨
You don’t need to be a professional designer to create a CV that is beautiful and unique. Use a free design platform like canva.com, enhancv.com or visualcv.com. A Google Doc Template can also do the trick.
3. Think Like a Marketer
Most candidates send the same resume and cover letter to all the companies they apply to. This is such a missed opportunity! By opening a position, Blinkist is trying to solve a problem. The job description illustrates the way in which the person will solve this problem and their profile. Your goal should be to connect the dots between your experience, skills, talents, and our needs.
✨ How To Do It ✨
Look at the skills in the job description and try to see how your past experience fits them. Then, make sure that you explain, giving concrete examples, how the requirements outlined in the job description are fulfilled with your own experience and skills.
Write a short cover letter focused on your motivations, expectations and the contribution you could make if you joined Blinkist. You could for example answer the following questions:
- Why do I want this job? Which tasks appeal to me the most and why?
- Why do I think I’d be good at this job?
- Why am I leaving my current job and what type of company culture do I want to be a part of?
- What do I think I can bring to Blinkist?
Let’s recap the essential components of a great application. Make sure to tailor your cover letter to the job you want, strut your design skills to stand out from the crowd, and above all, relax and be yourself. Don’t forget: your application is a tool to get you to the next step in the process. By putting a little time and thought into it, you’ll almost certainly make that leap.
👀You might also want to take a look at how to prepare for your interview at Blinkist and how to nail your interview at Blinkist.
Good luck! We’re rooting for you. 🙌