This document provides research and recommendations for students on placement application processes. It identifies sources for finding potential placement opportunities and discusses pros and cons of initial contact methods like email and letters. It also provides tips for developing an effective portfolio, getting feedback, and following up appropriately with potential employers.

1. Placement Application Research
By Ming, Becca, Sophie, Lauren,
Gaynor and Ruth

2. Identifying Companies
• Speculatively
• Job advert websites
• University careers service
• Social networking

3. First Contact Pros
• Email
• Efficient
• Straight Forward
• Easier to link reader to websites
• Letters
• Most likely will be opened – Intriguing
• More Personal

4. First Contact Cons
• Email
• Easily Deleted
• Possibility go straight to spam box
• Letters
• Old fashioned
• Easily misplaced
• Not environmentally friendly

5. Portfolio
• 20 pages if printed (30 if online)
• Demonstrate a rounded nature
• Keep it company specific
• Keep it up to date
• Easy to use/have access to/navigate
• Use the best work
• Allow room for discussion and context

6. Feedback
• Send follow up e-mail asking for advice
• Ask for feedback on first contact
• Ask more questions at interview
• Ask how you could improve

7. Follow Up Dos
• Write on your cover letter when you will contact
them
• Get the correct titles/names/contact details of
person responsible
• Be patient
• Alert your references
• Send a thank you note
• Continue to sell yourself
• Be memorable (i.e. business card)
• Ask for feedback

8. Follow Up Don’ts
• Harass the company
• Place too much importance in one job
• Stop looking for other placements

9. How To Follow Up
• At least 3 attempts
• E-mail first
• Call second
• Wait for response