Application process:

1. Structure and formatting: Your application should be clear and well structured. Use clear headings and paragraphs to make it easier to read. Pay attention to use a consistent font and an appropriate font size. You can find more tips here.
2. Cover letter: Despite popular opinion to the contrary, a cover letter is still important these days as it gives you the opportunity to demonstrate your motivation and suitability for the position. Personalize your cover letter by referring to the company and the advertised position you’re applying for. For example, mention your skills that are actually relevant to the job. Highlight your relevant skills, experience and achievements and show how you can contribute them to the position. If a contact person is mentioned in a job description, address them directly in your cover letter. You may also find a hint on the company's website that you can use in your cover letter.
3. Curriculum Vitae: Your resume should be arranged chronologically (starting from the present and going backwards) and highlight your relevant professional experience, education and skills. Be sure to include all relevant information such as contact details, education/training, work experience, skills, language skills and interests. Use concise bullet points and be precise. You can find more tips and examples here. 
4. Picture: You should always include a photo (it is usually included in the CV), unless this is expressly not requested. Choose a professional photo that represents you appropriately. Make sure you have a serious and friendly facial expression and are dressed appropriately. The photo should be in color and relatively recent. Usually, getting a professional photo taken at a photo studio is usually the best option.
5. Certificates: In any case, attach the relevant certificates to your application, especially if they confirm your qualifications and experience with regard to the position you are applying for. School and university degrees, training certificates, job references, certificates or other references that prove your educational background and level of qualification are relevant. It is not necessary to attach certificates from earlier education (e.g. school). Remember that the attached certificates should demonstrate your professional development as outlined in your CV.
6. Spelling and grammar: Pay particular attention to correct spelling and grammar. A poorly written applications can give the impression that you have taken little care. A "sloppy" application is perceived as disadvantageous.
7. Individualization: Tailor your application for each position and avoid generalities and empty phrases. Show your interest in the specific position and the company. This includes some research beforehand: take a look at the website of the company you are applying to. Websites are often more individual and informative, especially in the SME sector. Additional information about the company from the press and the Internet can be helpful.
8. Summary: Include a brief summary in your CV, emphasizing your strengths and goals (short profile, management profile, professional summary).
9. E-mail application: For e-mail applications, make sure that the subject line is meaningful and contains the company name and the job reference. Use a professional e-mail address and make sure it is formatted correctly.
10. "Follow-up list": If you apply to several companies, create a list in where you record your applications so that you can regularly check the status of your applications and "follow up" with the company if necessary.

Of course, you can use professional support when preparing your application. This can be very helpful, especially for job starters, but also if your last application was a while ago. As the old saying goes, "the fish has to like the worm" and this also applies to your application.

Good preparation is half the interview

Good preparation for a job interview is crucial. To come across confidently and convincingly in a job interview, it is important to have a clear idea of your own goals.

Here are some tips on how to prepare well and effectively.

Rhetoric is the key to your environment, both privately and professionally. You invest time and money in your hobby, in your vacation and much more - also invest in your professional development and be the "master" of your life.

In general: focus your thoughts on your (positive) goals and imagine your goal in your mind (it can also be helpful to put these thoughts in writing - mind mapping, vision board with collage).

Also rhetorically: (insert link argumentation/application training) 

1. Research the company you are applying to: Gather information about the company, its mission, values, products or services. This will show your interest and allow you to ask specific questions. By asking targeted questions, you can also influence the interview in your favor (of course, without being aggressive or too dominant).
2. Evaluate the job description: Analyze the requirements in the job advertisement and identify your relevant skills and experience that you can emphasize during the interview.
3. Prepare write answers (in writing!) to frequently asked questions: create a "small catalog" of typical questions/requests in a job interview. Practice your answers to common questions such as "Tell us about yourself", "Why are you the best choice for this position?" or "What are your weaknesses?". Prepare examples to illustrate your skills and achievements. Briefly describe the initial situation and then demonstrate the end result through your approach.
4. Ask questions: Before the interview, think about questions you would like to ask the interviewer (your conversation partner). This shows your interest and attention. For example, how the onboarding process will work or what feedback the recruiter/hiring manager can provide about the interview itself.
5. Prepare for different scenarios: During the interview, you may have several interviewers. Be prepared for such a situation and remain confident. Answer questions one after the other, don't let yourself be thrown off balance. The situation can also be made less tense if you ask comprehensible questions. Be authentic. If you feel overwhelmed, express this, e.g. by responding with a little humor or a request, or by politely asking for a moment to think before answering (with a pensive facial expression).
6. Prepare clothing and necessary documents: Choose appropriate clothing for the interview and have a copy of your application ready (CVs, references and certificates etc.). Make sure your journey to your interview is as stress-free as possible. If you are traveling long distances, it may be a good idea to arrive the day before. In any case, allow enough time for the journey - nothing is more unproductive than arriving at the appointment stressed and "annoyed". This way you will be well prepared.
7. Follow-up! This point is often forgotten - it's done and it went more or less well. However, carefully following-up is part of every job interview - it is also part of your personal development. After the interview, reflect on how it went, how was the general atmosphere like, were your questions answered, what was less good, etc. Sending a small thank-you letter to your contact person has a positive effect and reinforces your motivation. Ultimately, you should feel good after a job interview.
   

When it comes to addressing gaps in your resume, there are various ways to handle them:

1. be honest and positive: explain the reasons for the gaps in your CV in an honest and positive way. For example, emphasize further training, voluntary work or trips you have taken during this time. If you have a gap due to caring responsibilities in the family, talk about it. However, try to avoid becoming too emotional, even if that period was emotionally challenging for you.
2. Focus on relevant experiences: During the interview, concentrate on your relevant skills and experience rather than the gaps in your resume. Show that you are capable of successfully fulfilling the desired position despite these gaps.
3. Prepare an explanation: If the gaps in your CV are noticeable, it can be helpful to prepare a short explanation (write it down for yourself!). Explain why you did not choose full-time employment at that time and emphasize what you have learned or achieved during those periods.

It's important to approach the topic with confidence and authenticity, focusing on your strengths and experiences. Make sure that you clearly express your motivation and enthusiasm for the advertised position and show your interest in the position and the company. And remember them, that you are the "right person" for the position! 😊