Application forms

 

Application forms

Application forms are an important part of the recruitment process. Employers will use your application form as a first-stage filter, in order to draw up a shortlist of interviewees. For this reason, you should take the time and effort to make your application form as perfect as possible.

Many employers use one of two types of application form.

• The Employers’ Application Form (EAF) is individual to each employer
• The Standard Application Form (SAF) is a general form available from your university careers service.

Be careful though – only use an SAF if the employer specifically requests that you do so.

Filling in any application form uses the same techniques. The tips below should help you get it right:

1. Do your research
Finding out about the company you are applying to join is often a stage that job-seekers skip, but it’s one of the most vital parts of the application process. If you are replying to a job advert, read the job specification carefully. You can find out more about the company from its website or recruitment brochure, if it has one. And don’t forget to look for information on the Hobsons Graduate Careers Centre or in the Hobsons Career guides (available from your careers service).

2. Read the application form
It’s important to read the instructions carefully – find out if you specifically have to use block capitals or a black or blue pen. Failure to do what you are asked indicates a lack of attention to detail – a bad way to start any application!

3. Think your answers through
You may be asked why you wish to work for that employer. You may be asked what skills and experience you can bring to the position. Whatever the question, think carefully about your answer. The employer is trying to find out more about you – have you given a response that has answered the question in the best way?

4. Stress your achievements
If you have the right skills for the job, give a brief example of how you use them or developed them. This makes you appear more experienced and gives the employer evidence of your abilities.

5. Organise your information
Take some time to print out your answers on a separate piece of paper. That way you will be able to avoid repetition and make sure that you don’t leave out any information that you think is important. Think about the order you will present your details in. Put the subjects you have studied in order of importance to the employer.

6. Market yourself
Employers are looking for evidence of your ability, so make sure that you sound like the answer to their recruitment needs. If the job requires organisational skills, make sure you include an example that demonstrates this. Try to use proactive verbs to make your application more positive.

7. Fill in a draft form
Photocopy the form and complete a draft copy. This will ensure that your answers fit the space you have been given. You can also read the form through from start to finish. Have you answered all of the questions fully and without repetition?

8. Get someone else to check your work
When you have finished, read over your application. Then get someone else to read it as well (your careers adviser will be able to help). Sometimes you may miss mistakes that could cost you an interview.

9. Take your time
If possible, complete your answers and leave the application form for a day or so. You’ll be amazed how many improvements you can make when you come back to it with a fresh mind.

10. Photocopy your form before you sent it
Always keep a copy of your completed form. If you are invited to an interview, it is essential that you have a copy of what you have told the company about yourself. And you can also use the information to fill in other application forms without as much work. Don’t be tempted to duplicate exactly though – each application must be individually tailored.

Key tips

• Ask for an application form early to give you time to complete it properly.
• If possible, type your application form, as this is tidier than writing it. If you do write it, take your time and make it neat.