Trying too hard and over complicating things

This can often lead to over-complicated wording or use of unnecessary wording. Whilst a recruiter will want to read something that is well written they will not necessarily be impressed with long, fancy words which seem to be thrown in for effect.

They are more likely to be impressed by something that is written in plain English and is simple and easy to read. To communicate your message simply is actually more of a skill than to write long and convoluted paragraphs.

You should not therefore try too hard to impress with clever wording.

Instead, read and re-read what you have written and take out all unnecessary words. Try to use the least amount of words possible to make the point you want to make.

For example, it is much better to give the recruiter a simple but heartfelt and well thought out reason for wanting to work at that firm than to give a long winded explanation of every reason you want to work there. They will thank you for having eliminated the waffle and given them the key points in a simple format.

This is an extract from, “10 Insider Tips For Making Successful Training Contract Applications” by Matt Oliver and the Trainee Solicitor Surgery. You can get a free download of the Training Contract E-Book.