Writing a job application requires utmost caution in avoiding errors. But no matter how much we try, there’s always a chance of making a mistake in your application for a job.
Don’t worry, in this blog, we will take you through these 7 steps to take in case of a mistake in your application for a job.
You can follow these steps even in the case of an online job application.
Let’s get started!
Gauge the severity of the mistake
So, despite proofreading many times, you notice an error in your application for a job. It is alright don’t start panicking yet.
First, understand how important the error is in terms of the position you are applying for.
There are times when a recruiter can ignore errors based on the magnitude of it in respect to the job position.
Take for example, if your job application is for a content writer or an editorial position a grammatical error or punctuation error can weigh heavily against your candidature.
Also, check if there is a misplaced decimal in your grade points as it will be considered as lying.
Any typing errors which can be considered as lying after a background check requires to be handled at the most urgency, else it can cost you not only this job but also in other interviews.
Find out the right person to contact
Now that you have identified the magnitude of the mistake in your application for a job, the next step is to find the correct person to contact.
Try to find out if the company has a general inbox for HRs regarding your queries.
Also, in the case of an online job application, check if the recruiter’s email id is mentioned on the website. This will make your work a little less tiring.
Next, convey the problem and make sure to apologize sincerely and send across the corrected copy along with it.
However, in case you can’t find the contact information, you might have to take the longer route of making several calls until you reach the person in charge.
If you get the chance to talk to the recruiter, explain the mistake that is there on the job application and apologize.
Next, ask for the next step to rectify the mistake in your application for a job and how to proceed with it.
Pay a visit to the office
This step comes into play if only you can’t find any contact id of the recruiter.
Also, this step will work much in favor in case of job application in a startup.
All you need to do is visit the office premises with a fresh set of documents which are devoid of errors.
Introduce yourself at the reception, explain the problem and ask to meet the recruiting person.
Next, apologize for the mistake committed and explain that you want to correct it. Now, this can prove beneficial for you in the following senses.
First, showing up at the office to admit a mistake and the will to rectify it highlights your sincerity about your application for a job.
Secondly, you will have a decent amount of face time with the recruiter as compared to other candidates.
This will automatically give leverage over others.
Rephrase it to an attachment disorder
In the case of an online job application, there are times when either a document doesn’t get attached or you accidentally send across a wrong file. It happens to all of us.
Simply, attach the documents along with an apology note on the same mail thread.
However, in case an online job application system doesn’t allow you to resend with attached documents, you will need to follow the procedure mentioned in the above-mentioned point.
Call it an update instead of a correction
So, you have noticed an error right after sending across your job application. Hopefully, you have noticed it before the recruiter.
In the case of an online job application if the system permits you can make a few quick changes and upload it again.
However, it is best to come clean about the error in your application for a job if their system doesn't permit multiple applications.
Find out the point of contact and you can send across the corrected copy in this manner.
Hello (Name),
I would like to take the opportunity to thank you for allowing me to apply for a job in your esteemed organization.
However, it has come to my notice that in my excitement I have sent across the older version of my documents. I am extremely regretful of the misstep. Will it be alright if I could send across my updated information?
Thanking You,
Regards,
(Your Name)
Make the most of your 'Thank you' note
Sometimes we tend to make a mistake much later in the process, like misspelling the recruiter’s name, etc.
This is when you make full use of your ‘Thank you’ email to rectify the error. Here’s what you can write to fix it.
Once you are done thanking the recruiter for his/her time, you can write something on similar lines like.
“I would like to apologize for misspelling your name in my last email. I would be obliged if you accepted my sincere request. It was lovely to meet with you.”
Let it go
There are some mistakes in your application for a job that can be rectified while others are a lost cause.
Be it a big mistake that is beyond rectification or the fact that you could not find a person to contact, there are times when nothing can be done.
As frustrating as it might feel but it is best to let go.
However, don’t be disheartened, instead, learn from the mistake and take extra caution when submitting your next application for a job.
Hope you find these measures helpful in rectifying the mistakes in your application for a job.
Although, always be extra careful when it comes to your job application be it on papers or even your online job application.
All the best!
