Education and Child Matters

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Tips To Fill Out Job Application Forms

 

Many employers will not ask for you to submit a CV. They will have their own application forms for you to complete. Depending upon the employer, the application form can either be completed and submitted online or downloaded and completed by pen then posted or submitted by hand.

WHAT IS AN APPLICATION TRACKER SYSTEM (ATS)?

Some employers use an application tracker system (ATS) where if you are completing their application form online you can complete parts of the form, save it and return to complete the rest of the form later.

TIPS TO HELP YOU FILL IN YOUR APPLICATION FORM

Please find below some tips for you to help you complete an application form:

  1. Read the application form all the way through first. Read any guidance notes and understand what the employer wants you to do.
  2. If the application form has asked you to attach something or upload something, gather these documents first so you have them on hand when you fill in the application form. 
  3. Decide how you will answer each question and formulate answers on a spare piece of paper first or a word document on your computer before filling in the application form. At this stage check for spelling mistakes, grammar and sentence structure.
  4. If you are filling in the form by pen then:
    • Make a few copies of the form first in case you make a mistake and need to use a new form. 
    • Be as neat as possible
    • Ensure your handwriting is legible 
  5. If you are filling in the form online then:
    • You can write your answers on a word or docx document or similar and then cut and paste your answer onto the form. 
    • Check for spellings, grammar and sentence structure. 
  6. Always stick to the recommended word count you have been given when answering questions.
  7. If you have gaps in your education or employment please do address this and explain why.
  8. If you get a section which asks you if you would like to add any further information to your application, instead of leaving it blank you could write down a paragraph on the following
    • A reason why you want to work for this employer/organisation that you have not mentioned previously.
    • A summary of what makes you suitable for the job.
    • Some positive information about yourself that you have not had mentioned elsewhere on the application. 
  9. Do not leave questions blank. If you do not know what to say then please go to your education establishment and ask for help from the careers department if they have one.
  10. If you do not understand a question please ask your careers department at your education establishment.
  11. Once you have completed the form, check it through once. Then take a break and come back to it later and check it again with a fresh mind. 
  12. Save or copy your application form before you send it. Always keep a copy.

FURTHER INFORMATION

LINK TO GOVERNMENT WEBSITE FOR FILLING IN AN APPLICATION FORM