The application form is your first chance to make a great impression, so it’s vital to get it right. Here are 10 tips from our team of client advisors for filling out job applications to help you stand out and get shortlisted for an interview.
- Read the whole thing first: Before you start writing, read through the entire form. This helps you understand what information is needed and avoids you having to go back and repeat yourself.
- Use keywords from the job description: Many companies use automated systems to scan applications. Highlight key skills and responsibilities from the job advert and make sure you use similar words and phrases in your answers.
- Be specific and provide examples: Don’t just say you’re a great team player. Give a specific example of a time you worked as part of a team to achieve a goal, explaining your role and the positive outcome.
- Tailor your answers for the role: It’s tempting to copy and paste, but each application should be unique. Show the employer you’ve done your research by linking your skills and experience directly to what they’re looking for.
- Focus on accomplishments, not just duties: Instead of simply listing your daily tasks, focus on what you achieved. Use figures and facts where possible (e.g., “managed a team of five” or “increased sales by 15%”).
- Answer every question: Don’t leave any gaps. If a question isn’t relevant to your experience, explain why. For example, “I have not had direct experience with X, but I have a strong understanding of Y, which is closely related.”
- Stick to the word count: If there’s a word or character limit, stick to it. It shows you can follow instructions and communicate concisely.
- Get your spelling and grammar right: Typos and grammatical errors can make you look careless. Read over your application carefully, and if possible, use a tool like Grammarly or ask a friend to proofread it for you.
- Keep it professional: Use a professional-sounding email address and make sure your contact details are current.
- Save your progress: Many online forms can time out. Save your work regularly and consider writing your answers in a separate document first, so you can easily copy and paste them over.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to create a professional and compelling application that significantly increases your chances of getting shortlisted for an interview. Good luck!