Completing Job Application Forms Successfully
Regardless of the quality and conciseness of your CV, you will sometimes be asked to complete an application form as part of the recruitment process. Remember that, as with the CV, the application form reflects your standards and image. Mike South, a motivational sales management consultant and trainer for "Quo Vadis Grads", gives his top tips for successfully completing application forms:
Many Application Forms are poorly designed, often lengthy and therefore time-consuming to complete. Don't be tempted to use your CV as a substitute for completing the application form - you will be giving the recipient an extra job and he/she will not thank you for that. As a general rule therefore avoid referring to your CV.
Remember, some organisations have their own reasons for using the form and you must complete it fully or your application may be discarded.Since there are no hard and fast rules for a CV layout, recruiters have to 'hunt' for information from CVs, every applicant's being slightly different.Mike South
From the recruiter's point of view it is much quicker to paper select from application forms as it standardises the information everyone has to give. Since there are no hard and fast rules for a CV layout, recruiters have to 'hunt' for information from CVs, every applicant's being slightly different.
Top tips:
Take a photocopy of the blank form and fill this in as a "trial run".
Keep your photocopy. This will help during interview preparation and will save time when completing other forms.
Read the application form thoroughly before you start.
Make sure you understand what information is needed and where.
Follow all the instructions carefully (e.g., don't use green ink when it says complete in black).
Always keep in mind the particular requirements of the job for which you are applying.
Place information in the correct boxes.
Use the "additional information" section to sell your strengths and match the job requirements to your abilities and achievements.
Be neat and tidy.
Ensure spelling and grammar is accurate.
Check that information given in your application form mirrors that in your CV.
Return the form promptly with a short covering letter.
When you have completed the Application Form check very carefully (as with your CV) for the production quality. Proof-read it twice at least and preferably get someone else to proof-read also. Try reading it backwards - that way you see the words in isolation.
Take time to get it right... and... keep it short!
Don't forget to ring a few days later to check it has been received and try to find out when you may expect a response
Mike South is a motivational sales management consultant and trainer for "Quo Vadis Grads".
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