How to write an effective application for formal purposes?
Answers
How to complete a job application form
Step 1. Prepare yourself
Get all your basic information together: personal details, education etc.
Contact the people you want to use as referees, to get their permission and to confirm their contact details.
Think about why you want the job.
Think about what you have to offer and what makes you stand out.
Step 2. Find out what the employer wants
Check closing dates; if possible, apply before the deadline. Some employers start processing applications before the closing date – and they are usually deluged by last-minute applications – so if you submit yours early you may get more attention.
Read the job description and personal specification to find out what skills and experience they are looking for.
Research the organisation for more clues about the kind of applicant who would be successful.
Step 3. Write your application
Give yourself enough time: writing a good job application is likely to take longer than you expect.
Draft your answers first, before you start filling in the form.
Read the application form right through before you write anything. Follow all instructions and answer the questions asked (yes, it is a bit like an exam!).
If there is a question that does not apply to you, write ‘not applicable’ or ‘N/A’ in the appropriate box. This shows that you have considered the question and is better than leaving blanks.
Make your answers relevant, interesting and personal. Your aim is to write your own interview invitation, so you want to stand out.
Step 4. Final checks
Spell check and proof read your application. If possible, ask a friend or careers adviser to check it too.
Check that you have included everything you’ve been asked for.
Keep a copy of your application, so you can go over it before the interview.
Hit send!
Some things to remember
Allow plenty of time and make sure you won’t be disturbed. Some online forms allow you to ‘save and return’ but some have to be completed in one sitting.
If possible, print off the form so you can prepare your answers offline. This gives you thinking time and lets you check your answers before pasting the text into the form. Use a word document to write longer answers so you can edit and spell check them first.
Write for online applications in the same way as you would a formal letter, beware of lapsing into the informal style you might use when sending emails to friends or colleagues.
If you are asked to email your CV, it is likely to be electronically scanned. You may have to use standard typefaces etc so follow any instructions you are given. If a recruiter is using scanning software, you'll also need to ensure you include keywords for the specific skills and qualifications that they have asked for.
Some online application forms include built-in psychometric tests, so it’s useful to get some practice in first.
Keep a copy for reference: print out the form before you hit ‘send’.
Hope it's helpful!!!!!!!
