How to complete a job application
Application Forms can be used for:
- Applications for jobs.
- Applications for training opportunities.
- Applications for educational courses.
Most employers, training organisations, Universities and Colleges use them in the initial selection.
The purpose of an application form is to show that you have all the requirements for the job or course you are applying to.
Where lots of people apply for a job, or a popular course, a badly presented or incomplete application form will be quickly rejected.
How you complete application forms is important. There are a few guidelines you should follow.
Application forms - Hints and Tips
- Find a quiet place to work in, sit at a table/desk and make sure you have plenty of time to fill it in.
- Read and carefully follow ALL the instructions.
- Ask for help if there is anything you don't understand.
- Is there a closing date? Then return it on time!
- Practise on a photocopy of the form. If you don’t have access to a photocopier use scrap paper.
- Keep it tidy and check your spelling and grammar.
- Work out what kind of skills the employer will be looking for – look at the job description in the advert and/or job application pack. Most employers look for the same skills and qualities.
- There will be a course description and entry requirements in college/university prospectuses and websites.
- The “any other information” part of the form will take time to complete. Do spend time on it as this is where you can show you are the best person for the job.
- Don't give one word answers - for example "I am a member of a football club" tells the employer more about you than just "Football".
- Most application forms will ask for the name and address of a referee. This is someone who knows you, and will comment on your suitability for a job.
- Check you've completed all the relevant parts of the form. If a question does not apply to you, write “Not applicable”.
- Get someone to check the form over for you before you send it.
- Do not fold the application form, use the appropriate sized envelope.
- ALWAYS TELL THE TRUTH – IF YOU DON’T, YOU MAY LOSE YOUR JOB AND ANY FUTURE REFERENCE.
- Think 'ABC' - Accurate, Brief and Clear.
- Take a photocopy of your completed form. You may be asked questions about it in an interview. It can also be used to help you fill in other application forms.
Useful Words and Phrases
Employers will be looking for someone who is:
- A good time keeper
- Willing to learn
- Reliable
- Able to listen and follow instructions
- Good at working in a team
- Honest
- Enthusiastic
- Hard working
- Good at writing and speaking clearly
A more comprehensive list of Action Words.
Try to include some of these words and phrases when you are filling out your applications. Remember you will need to prove each one you use by giving examples e.g.
- A good timekeeper – excellent timekeeping/attendance record at school.
- Honest – cash handling in a shop, collecting money on paper round or shopping for an elderly relative.
Facts about Application Forms
- More applicants are rejected at the application stage than at any other part of the selection process.
- Your form will not usually arrive alone, but be one of a pile awaiting action.
- Employers are only human. If your application form is difficult to read or poorly written they won't waste time on it.
