Transcript Document
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
http://gradnav.ulster.ac.uk/units/unit-af018.shtml
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 email address make an appropriate
impression?!
Education
Work Experience
Importance of language: Power words
http://gradnav.ulster.ac.uk/units/unit-cv042.shtml
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
http://gradnav.ulster.ac.uk/units/unit-af023.shtml
STAR Technique
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
http://gradnav.ulster.ac.uk/units/unit-af035.shtml
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
http://gradnav.ulster.ac.uk/units/unit-af025.shtml
Action to be taken:
Review ‘Top Tips’ (Destinations Hand Out)
http://gradnav.ulster.ac.uk/units/unit-af025.shtml
Practice online application form
www.selectsimulator.com
Advice and information available from Career Development Centre
Room 2F01
http://careers.ulster.ac.uk