Transcript of Application Forms podcast
At some point everyone has to fill in an application for a job, the first time you have to complete one you might feel a bit confused about the different sections and what to put in them. This podcast tells you about the sorts of things that will make your application form impress an employer. Remember employers use application forms to decide who they are going to interview. If your application form is a mess you're not going to get an interview.
So, I've got my first application form, what do I do now?
Before you start filling out the form there are a few things to do first.
Check the closing date so that you know how much time you have, it sounds obvious but no matter how great your application form is if it arrives late you've missed your chance.
Are there instructions on filling out the form, if it says use block capitals or black pen or that it has to be typed then that is what you have to do.
You can practice on photocopies or blank paper until you are happy with what you want to say.
Remember first impressions count so your spelling and grammar are really important. Even if you are a very good candidate employers will be put off by spelling mistakes and poor grammar so get someone to check your form before you send it. Your Guidance Teacher or Careers Scotland Adviser can help you.
Most forms have a section where you can show how your skills and experience match what the employer's looking for, remember employers have lots of application forms to look at, make sure yours stands out and gets you an interview.
Look carefully at the job description or the job advert to find out the skills, interest, experience and personal qualities needed for the job, then show that you have these skills. You could mention things you have done in school or college, leisure interests, voluntary or paid work. For example you might want to talk about computer programmes you can use, other practical skills that you've got, experience of working with people or being part of a team. Employers are looking for people who are enthusiastic, hard working, reliable, willing to learn so try to put this across on your form.
You will usually be asked about your employment and training experience. Use this section to talk about any school work experience or part-time jobs that you have had.
When it comes to the section on qualifications always use the full title of your subjects. You know what C and D and CSS mean but an employer needs to be told that that stands for Craft and Design or Contemporary Social Studies.
Most application forms will ask for the name and address of a referee, this is someone who can be asked about your suitability for the job. Think carefully about who you are going to use as a referee. A teacher or a previous employer is a good choice, don't use friends and family and always ask permission before using someone as a referee.
And finally don't forget to sign the form, get someone to check it over for you before you send it. Don't fold the application form use the right size of envelope and above all keep a copy because the interviewer will ask you about the things you said in your application form.
