Ten tips on how to fill in application forms
- Treat the task with respect.Employers have good reasons for asking candidates to complete application forms. So, even if you’ve already submitted a CV and it seems like you’re being asked provide the same information all over again, still give it your best shot.
- Take a photocopy first.Use the copy to do a draft. In this way avoid the finished version going back with crossings out, blobs of correcting fluid and squeezed-up writing in places where you ran out of space. Remember your image is at stake.
- Don’t leave blank spaces. Questions which aren’t answered give the impression you could be trying to cover something up.
- Don’t take short cuts. For example, writing ‘See CV’ in some of the spaces to save you the job of writing out the information again won’t endear you to anyone. It sends out a message either you’re too lazy or you can’t adhere to simple instructions.
- Check for consistency. Employers pick up on discrepancies between what candidates put in their CVs and what they say in their application forms. It could suggest someone isn’t telling the truth.
- Get your strong points over. Just as you use your CV to get your strong points across to employers do the same with any application forms you are asked to complete. Remember too that, unlike CVs, application forms are usually read from start to finish.
- Don’t hang about. Employers won’t wait round. When you’ve been sent an application form to complete get it back as quickly as you can.
- Sign it (if asked). Some application forms ask you to sign at the end to say the information you’ve given is correct. Neglecting to put your signature on the dotted line could suggest to some employers you’ve not told the truth.
- Check your English. Don’t let yourself down with spelling mistakes, bad grammar or incorrect word usage. If you’re not sure get someone reliable to check for you.
- Take a copy of the finished version. Before you go for an interview it is always advisable to remind yourself what you said in your application form.