1. HAVE YOU THE PROFILE REQUIRED ?

This traditionally accompanies your CV. It is not a mere formality. It must neither repeat the contents of your CV not contain platitudes. On the contrary, it is an opportunity: to personalise your application, to address yourself to a specific company.
Is it read before or after the CV? That depends on the recruiters. It would seem that in most cases the letter is read first of all and that its degree of interest determines whether the CV is treated favourably or not.

A company weighs its words in placing an advertisement. In preparing your reply, dissect it point by point.

The information supplied includes:

- the company. Its name is even sometimes mentioned, or failing that, certainly its branch of activity, its size and geographical location.
- the vacancy to be filled and the main duties.
- the profile of the candidate being sought (number of years' experience, personal qualities, education, specific language proficiency or knowledge of hardware...)

Should you reply if you are less than a 100-per cent match for the profile required ?

Naturally, the enterprise will be looking for the ideal candidate, being perfectly aware that such a candidate does not exist. Know how to read between the lines. Some requirements are off-putting: "Fluent English and German". Is your school knowledge of languages dated? Do not apply... Other requirements are more flexible. It is for you to weigh up the significance: "...a minimum of 5 years' experience" You have only two, but you make up for the difference both by the quality of what you have learned and accomplished during your initial experience and by your dynamism and curiosity. You have 10 years' experience, which is therefore more than is being asked. The starting salary will probably be lower than you expected, but the company interests you (for its reputation, potential, the training you could receive...), state this and take a chance.

REPLY TO AN ADVERTISEMENT IF YOU MEET 80%
OF THE REQUIREMENTS