Purpose

One of the most critical elements of the job application process is the initial research process. Deciding which jobs to apply to is the first step in finding work that suits you as much as you suit it.

To practice this research process, this project asks you to do the following:

Consider your interest in and suitability for jobs.
Research employer needs and culture.
Consider audience expectations and desires to tailor job letters and resumes.

Task

You’ll begin this assignment by finding two job ads from two different organizations; you should have some interest in applying to both jobs.

You will then write an audience analysis and job ad comparison essay of 750-1000 words. In this essay, you will do the following:

Describe the expectations and desires of two hiring organizations.
Describe strategies to address those expectations and desires in résumés and cover letters.
Compare how well the two jobs described in the ads would fit your own career goals and personal needs.

Because you will be using this essay as pre-writing for your job materials, you are the primary audience for this essay. Focus on presenting the information you find most useful and connecting it as clearly as possible to your goals and needs.