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
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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