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A Guide to Filling In Application Forms
 Read the application form carefully. Before you start filling in the job application form, read right through the form and note any special instructions (for example, "Give details of employment in reverse order"). As you read each section, think about what the employer is trying to find out - for example, are they looking for detailed evidence of your transferable skills?
 Match yourself to the job. Analyse the job specification carefully and note the
main job functions and responsibilities. Try to assess the sort of person they are looking for. The more precisely your skills and experience match the employers requirements, the greater your chance of being shortlisted.
 Photocopy the application form. An application form littered with Tip-Ex corrections and spelling mistakes definitely won't impress. Write out your answers on a photocopy of the original first. Only complete the original when you are sure you have got it right.
 Play down periods of unemployment. You can 'disguise' short periods of unemployment by giving the year of employment, rather than the month and year. For example, if you give your dates of employment as ABC Ltd. 1993 to 1995, XYZ Ltd. 1995 to 1998, and so on, it wouldn't be apparent that you were unemployed from June to September 1995. However, if you are specifically asked to state periods of unemployment you should own up, as deliberately omitting the information would effectively constitute a lie (see tip number 7).
 Accentuate the positive. Stress your strong points and achievements without
false modesty. Include as many selling points as you can - you may be able to elaborate on these at the interview.
 Stand out from the crowd. If you have any special skills or talents that are
relevant to the job - like foreign languages or advanced driving skills - make sure you mention them.
 Honesty is the best policy. Employers accept that candidates will try to present
themselves in as favourable light as possible. But, you should never lie or make claims that you cannot substantiate. If you are found out, your employer would be entitled to cancel your employment contract.
 Emphasise your best qualifications. When listing your qualifications, you should generally start with the highest level qualifications you possess and work 'down' through the list. If you have several qualifications of the same level, list first those subjects that relate to the job you are applying for.
 Try not to leave blank spaces. Make sure you fill the spaces provided for "any other information" - this is an opportunity to sell yourself!
 Contact your referees. Check with your referees that they are willing to give you a reference before you include them on your application form.
 Create a good first impression. Ensure that the completed form is legible and as neat as you can make it.
 Re-read the completed form. Even though you might have copied your answers from a rough version, errors can easily creep in. Re-read what you have written for any mistakes and correct them.
 Keep a copy. When you are preparing for the interview, it's useful to have a copy of your application form, so that you can check what you wrote.
 Get it in the post now! Make sure that your application form is posted in good time for the closing date.
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