Application Forms - Make Them Work For You!!!

You are applying for a job you are interested in; you have sent of for the application pack and have the application form and other information regarding the job in front of you such as the job description and personnel specification (sometimes called the job specification or job spec).

• Your application form is the first stage in the process – a very important first stage where you are making your submission for selection.  You want to be short-listed for interview and it is up to you to let the short-listing panel or selection committee know that you are a suitable candidate for interview.
• If your application form is poorly completed (for example with spelling mistakes), you will fail to impress and will not get an interview regardless of your qualifications, skills and experience.  Remember that the application form returns for jobs with a company generally exceeds availability.

Also remember, that you will be competing with other candidates.  It is up to you to create a good impression through your application form and consolidate your skills, knowledge, experience and qualifications by:

• Preparation and Planning: Have all the information you need in front of you including your CV if you have one.  Photocopy the application form to enable you to undertake a first draft.   This way you can proof read and make changes and additions.  This will also help you with layout and space. Many employers provide an electronic version and it is much easier to type the information into the form than to write it – check the instructions for submission too; some employers allow on-line submission others require you to send by post/hand deliver within a time deadline).
• Presenting the information required in a clear and easily accessible manner. Use a black pen (this assists photocopying).
• If you are handwriting the application, ensure that your handwriting is clear.  Don’t squash additional words into margins – these often get lost when the documents are photocopied.  Spelling mistakes, corrections (score-outs and tippex®) are unsightly and do not make a good impression.  If you are in doubt about the meaning or spelling of a word, use a dictionary/thesaurus.
• Take time to thoroughly read and think through your responses to the questions being asked in the application form.  How you present your “supporting information” (writing about your skills, experience, qualities and career aspirations) will mean the difference between getting short-listed for interview and not. If you present your supporting information well, you will maximise your potential.The Personnel Specification will be used to shortlist you for an interview.  Make sure that it is clear in your application that you meet the essential criteria and as many of the desirable criteria as possible.  If you do not demonstrate that you meet at least the essential criteria you will not get an interview.  Give practical examples of how you meet each criteria and remember that skills are transferable from everyday life.
• If any section does not apply to you; write ‘not applicable’ or N/A in this section.
• Do not try to cram your answer into the space provided; if you run out of space, use a separate sheet of paper and attach it to the form.
• Sign and date the form.
• Complete the monitoring questionnaire and return with the form.  If you do not complete this it may mean your application is not accepted.
• Get someone you trust to check the form with you.
• Keep a copy of the application form as it will be useful if you are shortlisted for interview or for other jobs you are applying for.

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