Completing application forms

Now that you've got your application form, how do you go about filling it in? Deep breaths, quiet space, and take your time. Now let's get started.

"Tailor your answers to what they're looking for."

Firstly, remember to:

Read through our basic guide to if you haven't done so already.
Read the instructions carefully all the way through.
Ask advice if you're unsure of anything – a teacher, friend or even the company you're applying to may be able to help.
Keep your CV handy for easy access to dates and facts.
Get a copy of the job description or person specification and tailor your answers to what they're looking for.
Be honest – you will be caught out sooner or later, and it saves embarrassment, or even worse, being sacked.
Ensure you have enough time on a computer if you're applying online.

Should I type my application or fill it out by hand?

It's a good idea to type the form, but if you're handwriting it photocopy the form a few times so you can practise filling it in.

If you're completing the application form online, save the questions and your answers as Word files on your computer. This way you don't lose anything if the computer crashes, you can run a spell-check, and you'll have your answers handy if you're called for an interview.

How do I complete the employment and education section?

For work experience and education sections, start with your most recent work and education and put these in the most detail, working chronologically backwards in time.
If you don't have a long employment history, focus on any part-time jobs, work experience or voluntary positions and the skills you gained in each role.
If there are gaps in your employment and education, put a brief explanation why – even if it was because you were claiming Jobseekers Allowance (JSA). Unexplained gaps raise suspicion, so make sure you don't give anyone cause to bin your CV.

What about the personal statement?

This is the hardest bit, but it is what will make the biggest difference to a future employer. Here are some top tips on writing a killer personal statement:

Print off the person specification/job description to use as your guide.
Make notes next to each skill or experience they are looking for with examples of how you can demonstrate these qualities, and use them as the basis of your statement.
Using your notes, write in paragraphs what you can bring to the role, checking your skills and experience against ones they're looking for. For example, you might be a Formula 1 driver, but if the job is administrative, they'll be more interested in your typing speed than your racetrack skills.
Explain why you want this particular job – enthusiasm and an ability to show that you really know what the job entails will impress your employer.
Don't be afraid to mention interests and hobbies, but choose wisely. That voluntary placement at the local nursery or playing regular gigs in a band will sound better than your passion for weekend drinking and clubbing.

Updated:27/05/2010

Jargon Buster

Job description:: Is a summary of the key features and tasks of a job
Person specification:: A breakdown of what the employer is looking for in terms of skills, knowledge, experience, and sometimes character
CV:: Stands for 'curriculum vitae' and means a summary of your academic and work history

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Print off your form and read it through thoroughly. Double check your spelling and grammar, and that you've answered the questions correctly and matched your answers to the person specification.
Ask friends, family or a tutor to look through what you've written.
If you're handwriting your form, do it very carefully with black ink. If you make mistakes use correction fluid.
If you're doing your form online or as a document to be emailed, print off the final copy for your records. Photocopy a handwritten form. You'll need to look back at it if you are called for an interview.
If you're sending it in the post, put the form in a large envelope so it isn't folded more than once. This makes it easier for the employer to scan or photocopy.
Remember to check your emails and voicemails regularly to find out if you've been called for an interview. If you have, call to confirm your attendance. See our interview tips page for more details. Best of luck!

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