When you’re considering applying for a job, application forms are definitely worth your time and attention.
Our recruiting managers will use the information you provide in the application to shortlist fairly for interview. It’s really important that you provide as much information as possible to show us you’re the right person for the role.
Here are some top tips to help you complete a successful application:
1 – Prepare yourself by allowing time to work on the form undisturbed. Have all necessary information at hand including: the job advertisement, Person Specification, Job Description and your CV
2 – Read through the application form before putting pen to paper, or fingers to keyboard, to decide what the most appropriate answer to each question is
3 – Wherever possible, use technology to help you. Carry out research on the internet about the job and the organisation. Type your answers into a word processor/ word document and check for spelling and grammatical errors.
4 – Showing that you meet the criteria in the Person Specification is the most important part of the application, this will dictate if you are chosen to attend interview.
This can be best achieved by using examples from your previous employment or other roles you have performed. List all of the criteria in the Person Specification and answer each one in turn including and example of how you have met the criteria in the past. For example:
Experience of project and staff management, I have X years experience of project management at Stockport Support. In this role, I developed a ‘Hand Holding’ project from conception, through fundraising, staff recruitment and supervision, whilst delivering on set targets and outcomes. To raise the funds I completed a detailed bid that was submitted to and approved by the Expo Foundation. I recruited a team of four Hand Holders through advertisements place in the Job Centre. I held monthly reviews with the staff and set annual performance targets. Achieving the agreed targets and outcomes was monitored through the use of excel spreadsheets, with activities being adjusted to ensure these were met.
5 – When you have completed the application form, get someone you trust to read through it and give you honest feedback – to ensure you have explained yourself clearly and answered all of the questions with appropriately
6 – Finally, keep a copy of your application form to read through prior to interview.
Good luck! We look forward to reading your application.