Application Form Tips
Today when applying for a job employers ask you to share your information in a few ways. Either submitting your CV and a cover letter, being position specific and detailing your experience to each area via a Job Specification template (Job Spec) form or filling our a application form.
Here we are looking at Job Applications here are the tips we have brought together for you.
It is important to remember but don’t let it put you off applying for the job that employers receive lots of applications and not everyone shares the information the employer needs to know in the way they what it to be shared. Keep all information short, to the point and always directly relevant to the job description advertised.
Try to use black ink:
Have you ever asked yourself why always black ink, this is simply because it photocopies and prints better.
Read all the areas of the application form carefully:
Some areas will ask for you to fill it out using block capitals. A common mistake is writing the surname in the forename area, watch out for this and read each area before you start writing!
If the employer asks you about your qualifications and experience:
Look at the job description and read it carefully. There is sometimes a section which points out the specific skills that are essential and others that are desired yet not important. This will also help you know what your chances are of succeeding during the application process. Use the specifics they are looking for and fill in the box using examples including training or voluntary roles you have participated in.
If you have untidy handwriting:
Use block capitals so that the document is legible so that a potential employer can read it clearly.
When in doubt shout!:
If you become stuck, then ask someone for help, a family member, friend or find an organisation in your area that may specialise in helping people such as job coaches.
Follow the instructions given out to you and don’t go out of your way to give more information
They are asking what they want to know about you at this stage so there is no reason to tell them more than they are asking for. If they ask for references on the application form, make sure to clear it with the person(s) first, so that they are aware first before they get an unexpected phone call, letter or email.
During my meandering around the internet looking for tips on how to fill out application forms, I came across this page, which I think is effective and easy to read.
