The application
form will usually be your first point of contact with an employer
so you need to make sure that yours stands out from the rest and
makes them want to meet you. Here are a few job application
tips to make sure your application form makes a good
impression with employers.
Do:
- Make sure you read the form first – try to understand what each
question is asking and think about how to answer it. If you’ve been
given a job description or person specification then read those
too.
- Photocopy the form – this way you can have a trial run at
filling it in. It will give you a chance to work out how much space
you have.
- Write in the correct colour ink – the form should tell you what
colour you should write in. If it doesn’t say, go for black to be
on the safe side.
- Write neatly and clearly and use capital letters if the form
asks for them.
- Include any voluntary work in your employment history when
writing application forms as this shows another
positive side of your character.
- Make the most of your supporting statement – if the application
form asks for one, make sure you refer to all the points in the
‘essential’ criteria of the person specification. This will help to
show why you’re the right person for the job.
- Ask a friend to read over what you have written if you
need help filling out job application before you
send it off.
Don’t:
- Leave any gaps – fill each section in if you have the
information. If the question doesn’t apply to you, write ‘Not
applicable’ or ‘N/A’.
- Forget to photocopy your final version – this is important in
case you get an interview. You might need to refer to what you’ve
written.
- Include specific details on why you’ve left jobs in the
employment section – employers want to know if you’ve been
dismissed, not that you didn’t like your boss.
- Be afraid to ask for help filling out job application
forms and ask friends and professionals such as the
consultants at Working Links for advice on your form.
If you need more advice on writing
application forms, register your email address and we’ll send
you job application tips including key phrases to
help your application make it onto the shortlist. Or you can call
us free on 0800 917 9262 to meet one of our
consultants.