Application forms

An amazing number of people miss out on jobs because they don't fill in the application form properly. Maximise your chances of being picked for an interview by using these hints and tips.

Seen an ad?

• If you see an advert that tells you to send for an application form, type a short letter to ask for one. Keep it simple and post it off quickly.
• If you can apply by email, do so. You still have to pay close attention to what you write, but you won't have to worry about things like handwriting.

Before you start writing, remember:

• Take your time, you will make more mistakes if you rush;
• Make two photocopies of the blank form: one for practicing and one just in case;
• Read instructions carefully all the way through;
• If you don't understand something, ask for an explanation;
• Keep your CV handy for easy access to dates and facts;
• Invest in a good black pen, first class stamps, and some largeish (eg. A5) sized envelopes;
• Don't lie - you will be caught out sooner or later. Employers now have access to a database that lets them check up on your qualifications.

The rough version:

• Fill the rough form in as if it was the real one;
• Make a list of things the employer is looking for (work experience, qualifications, skills) and work out the best way to show them that you have all these qualities.

Section by section tips

• For work experience and education sections, it's usually best to put the most recent things first and in the most detail;
• If you don't have much of an employment history, write about part-time jobs and work experience, and what you learned from them;
• Write about duties, responsibilities, and how the things you did benefited your last place of work;
• In the 'personal interests' section, remember an interviewer who is older than you might be seriously put off by the mention of computer games, sci-fi fantasy role-playing, clubbing, or net surfing.

Finally:

• Read through everything in your notes, thoroughly;
• Get friends or family to look through the rough form to see if it's OK;
• Fill the form in very carefully with black ink, in your neatest writing;
• If you make mistakes, don't cross them out, use correction fluid;
• Photocopy the filled-in form and file it. You will need to look back at your answers if you are called for an interview;
• Put the form in a big enough envelope, so it isn't folded more than once. This makes it easier for the employer to scan or photocopy.