Now a day’s most companies want some kind of application form completing when you are applying for a job with them but frequently now these applications are all online so it is important to follow the next ten steps to ensure you do a successful application.
#1 Have all your details with you before starting to do an online application
It may seem obvious to some it is important to make sure that before you start completing an online application form that you have all the information you are likely to need in front of you before starting. This includes your CV which is up to date, your personal details, your job advert or description, your referee details, any visa information or ID details that proves your eligibility to work in the UK.
#2 Save as you go along so that a session does not time out
Most online applications allow you to save as you go along and maybe even re visit it at a later time before the actual deadline so that you don’t have to be under pressure to do it all in one go and get the opportunity to keep re visiting bits and editing it as you go along.
#3 Up to date employment details
Make sure that you have your CV up to date so that you can clearly put your employment details into the application form without having to find the information before typing. It is important to update this after each job you have had so that it is fresh in your mind and you don’t have to spend hours thinking about the things that you used to do or be responsible for.
#4 Research the company
Know the company you are applying to inside out. This is very important. There is nothing worse than you coming across like you do not know what the company does. Make sure that once you are comfortable that you know everything you can do that you allow this to be read through the application form that you are completing. For example if there is a personal statement section make sure you slip bits into it about what you know and how you would like to work for that particular company.
#5 Know the job description inside out
It is important to know what the company is looking for. Have you been through each point in the job description and assessed in relation to your skills what you can do and how you think you can do it. What previous experience have you had and how does your experiences and skills relate to what the company are looking for. Make sure that you can answer any questions you need to about the job description and try not to cover up elements that you are unable to do, turn them in a positive, a learning curve.
#6 Set aside some time to do the application form properly
It is important that to do an application form properly that you set aside some time which is quiet and free from distractions. You need to be able to think clearly when trying to create a good impression through your skills and writing alone.
#7 Mirror the company image and way of writing
Look at a company website and see how they write, what is their style and how do they come across. Try to mirror the way they come across by writing in a similar way (as long as it makes sense and is appropriate) and by doing this it shows that you are on the same level as the company and have paid particular attention to this.
#8 Know your salary details and any specific dates that are required for the form
You will need to know specific salary details for an application form as well as dates of employment, gaps in employment, dates of sickness etc. All these things will be found out through a reference so it is important to be as accurate as you can be so that you do not get caught out, for example if you have been off sick for a week with flu in the last 6 months, try to explain that and the circumstances around this.
#9 Equality and ID
Be prepared that you may be required to complete an equality form as part of your application process and that you may be required to upload or state your forms of ID to prove that you are legally allowed to work in the UK and do not need a Visa or Permit to do this.
#10 Checking and Double Checking
Finally check and double check before submitting the application form. Check your spellings, grammar, context in which you have written things in. Make sure it reads well and if you are able to get someone to read through if for you and make any necessary suggestions. Proof reading is very essential to create a good impression.
image by: thaynes
