Application Form Tips For Part time Jobs & Holiday Jobs

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Application Forms

An application form is an extremely important document as it not only requires you to provide information on your professional experience and qualifications but will also often set questions that are designed to provide a greater insight into your personality. These sections of the form will require you to provide evidence of exactly how you have demonstrated you particular attributes so that you can actually prove your competence in the area in question. Because all candidates for a job will be answering the same questions, the employer is then able to shortlist the candidates based on their skills, experiences and abilities.

Before You Start

Generally, whether an application form is to be completed in writing or online, an application pack will be provided which consists of a job description, person specification and guidance notes. This information must be read carefully before you start completing the form so that you are aware of any word counts or application deadlines.

Also, it is important to make sure that you actually fulfil the essential criteria of the person specification.
When filling out different application forms, it is always useful to have pre-prepared lists of all the common information that you will be required to provide. This can include details of your qualifications and grades obtained, all of your job descriptions and information on your key achievements.

Also, note down what skills and attributes you developed as a result. Having this information to hand can help you to save an enormous amount of time when applying for jobs.
It is also useful to research the company you are applying to before filling in the form. Some employers will want to see that you have an understanding of what the company does and what type of people they employ.
The Internet is possibly the most useful source of information but you can also contact the company directly with any questions you may have.

Filling in the Form

Before completing an application form photocopy it so that you can practice filling the form in to make sure that your answers fit the spaces available. Unless the guidance notes specify to the contrary, paper based application forms should be completed in black ink.

Online application forms often require you to register your information before completing the form so carefully record your registration details to ensure that you are able to return to your information at a later date if required.

Never submit your application until you have read through it and, if possible, print it off as well. By doing this, you are able to remind yourself of the answers to the questions if you are called for interview.

Generally, the education and employment sections of the application form are self-explanatory and should be completed entirely honestly as this information is very easy to verify. Overseas applicants need not try to convert their qualifications into a UK format as many employers now use a qualification conversion table.

The employment section usually requires job descriptions for all or some of the jobs you have undertaken. Be aware of space or word limitations and remember to include part-time or voluntary work if applicable.

The final stages of the application form will generally be the references, data protection and equal opportunities monitoring sections. Make sure that you get permission from the people you choose to be your referees and also be careful to choose people that are likely to give you a positive reference!

Personal Statement & Competency Questions

In general, most application forms will require you to complete a personal statement or a series of competency questions specifically designed to find out why you are applying for the role and to the company in particular and what skills and experience you have that match the person specification.

When answering set questions, make sure that the information you provide actually answers the question and that you can provide evidence for each area. Again, make a note of any word restrictions and be sure to adhere to this as any extra words you use may simply be ignored. Read through the person specification, highlight any essential criteria and relate these to your own experiences.
If asked why you are applying for the job, the research you carried out will be invaluable as you will be able to emphasise what you can offer and what you hope to gain from the role.
If you do not fulfil all of the criteria of the person specification, it is possible to get round this by highlighting other areas in which you can add value. You should also express your willingness to learn new skills and undertake further training.
Try to make use of 'buzz' words that are directly related to the company or the role you are applying for, as some employers will have a checklist of these to make sure that you understand the field. Remember, though, that you will have to back this up if you get asked for interview so try not to overreach yourself here.

Finishing Off

When you have completed the application form, make sure that you read through it carefully to check for spelling errors and other mistakes.

With paper-based forms, correct any mistakes as neatly as possible using correction fluid or one line through the word.
Keep a copy of the form for your own records and make sure that it is submitted before the deadline.

*These job application form tips were produced with the help of The CV Centre to ensure only the most useful and up to date advice was provided.

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