jobhunting - application forms

Completing an application form is usually the first step towards getting that dream job!

• How to complete an application form
• Examples of questions employers ask
• Handy hints
• Online Applications
• Useful resources

How to complete application forms

When completing an application form you should remember that you are not only providing information, but you are also trying to convince the potential employer that you are the right person for the job. You should find out as much as possible about the job and work out how your skills and qualifications meet the requirements. Present the strongest evidence that you are suited.

Have in mind specific jobs and /or tasks that you have done which display suitable qualities. When answering a question, consider what it is the employer is looking for. Anticipating the huge number of applications the employer is likely to receive, it is important that you make a telling impression.

The application form should be completed in as neat a form as possible, and should contain all the relevant information but no irrelevant information. Read each question carefully and follow any instructions given.

Here are some examples of the types of questions you can expect:

• Describe a situation when, as a leader of a group, you directed its efforts, and how you gained commitment to achieve results. (Marks and Spencer)
• How would your colleagues describe you in five words? (Shell)
• Describe the nature and extent of your commitment to working internationally during your career. (Guinness)
• Describe an occasion when it was important that you were able to work with new colleagues who had differing views. What did you do? How did you ensure your ideas were listened to? (Commercial Union Assurance Company)

Handy hints

• Always read the full application form through from start to finish before you put pen to paper.
• Complete draft answers before you fill in the actual form.
• Be positive, specific and relevant.
• If possible it should be typed or word processed. Otherwise, make sure your writing is neat, legible and spellings correct.
• If any questions are not applicable to you then state N/A.
• Do not leave gaps.
• Keep a copy of the form for yourself to remind you of what you have written should you secure an interview.

Online Applications

Many employers take advantage of an online application facility. This can help to speed up the application process and reduce costs and waste associated with the tradition paper-based system. The following tips should be noted before making online applications.

• Make note of your user-name and password (if the relevant site uses this facility) to enable you to return to an incomplete application
• It may help to print the online form and practice filling it in online
• Enter the information as accurately as possible particularly contact details
• Complete all sections of the form and treat it as seriously and dedicate as much time to it as you would a tradition paper application form
• Print out your completed application form for future reference and in case details need to be checked
• If the form is detailed, it may help to complete it off-line instead of wasting costly Internet connection time

Useful resources

There are a huge number of online resources offering guidance in making applications. However, we believe the following sites are the most useful and informative:

• The Careers Resource Library here in DCU provides a list of relevant books available in the library as well as online guides containing tips and advice and links to other relevant sites
• GradIreland''s careers advice section offers comprehensive careers planning advice for Irish students and graduates and boasts lots of relevant information in addition to offering an impressive virtual tour of the application process, including ''Golden rules for application forms''
• Prospects provide a useful section on application forms here, a guide to speculative applications here and online applications here
• Monster.ie have an excellent FAQ on making online applications
• DoctorJob is an award-winning graduate careers site with a quirky, friendly layout and useful templates and sample completed application forms