Q: There’s a company I’d really like to work for – two jobs that interest me have recently been advertised there. They even have the same closing date. Should I go for one or would it be a good idea to apply for both? (EC, email).

A: Like buses, you wait all morning for one …in this instance, give yourself a chance of mounting both buses, writes Liam Horan, Career Coach, Sli Nua Careers.

Go for both jobs. Both interest you. It would be different if one of the jobs did not lie within your area of interest and expertise, but it is clear from your email they both fall into your zone.

I would apply for both because you can do both. Apply separately, matching the requirements of both job specs in your applications. This will mean tweaking your CV and cover letter each time.

If you get called to interview for both, do both. It is unlikely you will be offered both, in the circumstances, but until you are, do not forget that you are in two separate races.

To go back to the matching process I mention above, be very clear about the different requirements of the jobs. In effect, you are not just applying to the company – you are applying for different jobs. Bear that in mind all the way through.

Will they think you’re flailing around just looking to find some way – any way – into their company? In my view, no. It would be different, as I said, if you went for something very left of field but these jobs are logical choices for you. I would wager that you will not be the only person to apply for both jobs.

Liam Horan is a Career Coach with Sli Nua Careers in Ballinrobe.

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