Application Forms: Presenting Yourself Effectively on Paper Career Development Centre University of Ulster

Learning Outcomes  Understand why employers use application forms as part of their selection process  Know broadly the types of application forms commonly used  Recognise the importance of preparation and research in advance of completing application forms  Develop confidence in ability to demonstrate skills and suitability in writing  Be aware of common errors to be avoided

Types of Application Forms  Standard Application Form  Employer Application Form See sample application form  Online Application Form

Why application forms? Employers use application forms to assess if a candidate:  Can do the job  Will do the job  Will fit in Why an application form rather than a CV? Simon Reichwald, CEO, Graduate Success

Before getting started…  Study the job description & specification – what is the employer looking for? Do you meet the essential criteria? (UCAS points / experience etc)  What is the closing date? How much time do you have?  Reflect on your education / skills / experience. What examples will you use to demonstrate your suitability for the post?  Research the company & job role in full  Make a copy of the blank application to work on a draft

Completing Forms: The Basics  Follow the instructions! Can a CV be attached? Is black ink to be used? etc  Personal Details Ensure all details are completed in full (dialling code/postcode etc). Does your address make an appropriate impression?!  Education  Work Experience Importance of language: Power words

Tackling Longer Questions  Open ended questions regarding supporting information:  Add structure by linking directly to criteria outlined in job specification  Make reference to:  Your interest in the position / company  Relevant experience you have attained  Skills / attributes and qualities you can bring Comments from Kevin Thompson, Careers Adviser, University of Reading

 Situation - describe the situation  Task - what were you asked to do?  Action - what steps did you take to complete the task?  Result - what was the outcome? Example of the technique in practice STAR Technique

Disclosing Personal Information  Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form Gender Religion Disability Criminal Convictions  Why do employers ask for this information and how should it be approached?  Providing references

Errors to Avoid  Spelling / Grammar mistakes - ensure you proof read / spell check  Avoiding the question – be careful to answer question asked  Underselling yourself – make the most of your studies / work experience  Being too generic – employers will want to see you have made an effort to tailor your application to the company / job role Common errors: Louisa Porter, Graduate Resourcing Manager, Corus Group

Action to be taken:  Review ‘Top Tips’ (Destinations Hand Out)  Practice online application form  Advice and information available from Career Development Centre Room 2F01