Application Forms

Help with application forms...

So, you're faced with a long, blank form and it stands to reason that if you don't fill it in, you've not even a chance of getting the job. Where to start?

First, take a copy of the form so that:

• you've got a practice sheet
• you can use it as a copy of the form to remind you of what you've put!

If you can't take a copy, write out your answers in rough before filling in the form.

Getting started...

Read the form right through first, so you know what each section is looking for.
Read through any notes attached to the form. For example, do they want you to fill it in in capitals, black ink?
Make sure your handwriting is neat and can be read - it may be reduced and copied. Check your spelling and grammar - or, better still, get someone else to!
Jot down what skills and abilities are needed to do the job you're applying for.
Jot down how your skills, abilities and interests match up to those required.
If you have a CV, keep this to hand, as you can transfer the information from this straight to the relevant section of the application form.
Don't forget that while your CV is standard, to be used whatever the job you are applying for, an application form isn't. You need to think about what skills, abilities and interests the job requires all the time you are filling in the form.

Section by section guide

Not all application forms follow the same pattern, but most will include the following:

Vacancy applied for and reference number - don't forget to include this if you are asked for it - if it's a large company, they could be advertising several different jobs - they need you to tell them which one you're applying for.

Name, address, date of birth - write clearly, in capitals if they ask for them.

Sections with dates, such as education and training, work history:

always start with the most recent first, unless you're told otherwise.
only put in what is relevant to the job you're applying for - it's unlikely they will need to know which primary school you went to!
if you haven't had many (or any!) jobs, work experience and voluntary work all count. Don't forget to include them, as long as they are relevant.
avoid leaving gaps in your education/training/work record. Account positively for how you have spent your time.

Hobbies and interests - don't just write a list, explain your involvement. If you captain a netball team, tell them, rather than just writing 'netball'. It shows leadership and team-building skills. If some of your interests are relevant to the job you are applying for, say so. For example, don't just put 'computer games' if, as a result, you have other computer skills. For instance, you might be able to type or do simple programming - if so, say so.

Further information to support your application - this is the biggie! It may say something different, for example, 'space is provided here for you to outline why you want to be considered for the job', but the meaning is the same.

Use this section to add information not mentioned elsewhere. Important items here are 'full, clean driving licence' and 'keyboard skills'. They want to know why they should consider your application over others which may show equally good qualifications and experience. This is where you must sell yourself!

pick out key words in the job description and match them to your work experience, skills and interests.
point out what you can do and the sort of person you are.
tell the truth!
jot down the key points you want to get across and then put them into clear English afterwards.

References - who should you ask? Usually someone who can talk about your school/college work, and someone who can comment on your performance at work (or on work experience). Always ask the people you wish to use first.

Completed it? Well done! Don't forget to take a copy - it will help if you get an interview, and you can always refer to it when completing other forms. Why not set up a file to keep them in?

Lastly - don't forget to post it on time! If you can, don't fold it too much - it creates a much better impression if it's not all creased!