Transcript: Guide to Application Forms
Thanks for listening to this audio guide on completing application forms. An employer will often use an application form to obtain standardised information from candidates, such as asking everyone the same question which is then easier to compare.
The application form will start with your basic information such as your name and contact details, and space for you to give your education and work history. But then, the types of questions can vary.
Some application forms will consist of several set questions, and these could cover a range of things such as your reasons for wanting the job, your understanding of the company, or asking you to explain specific skills or strengths.
Here’s an example of two questions from an NHS application form:
1) “Why do you think our values are important to the role you’re applying for?”
2) “Please provide an example of a time when you have been an effective team member either at work or in another setting.”
Both questions had a maximum word count of 150 words.
Other examples, this time from AstraZeneca, include:
1) “Describe why you are interested in the position, and why you believe you should be considered a suitable candidate.”
2) “Please detail two to three areas that you feel are development needs for your in relation to this role.”
These questions had a maximum word count of 100 words.
To provide an effective answer you need to analyse the question, and may need to do some further research. For example, to respond to the question about values you will need to stop and think about why these are important.
Check the requirements of the question; is it a two-part question or does it require a set number of points for you to make such as the two to three areas of development from the AstraZeneca question. Check that you are providing what the employer has asked for, and plan your answer accordingly. This might be as simple as dividing the word count between the number of points you need to make.
Where a question asks about your ability or suitability for a role refer back to the job description and person specification to remind yourself of the key competencies the employer is looking for. Then use this to help you write a convincing response. You probably won’t have space to cover everything, so you will need to prioritise what you think are the most important elements. Which skills are crucial to performing the job well?
Alternatively, an employer may ask for a “supporting statement” or “personal statement”, which is space for you to write a longer piece which you will structure to explain to the employer why you would like to work for them, as well as how you fit the role.
Here’s an example of the instructions for a supporting statement taken from an NHS application form:
“In this section you need to demonstrate that you have read the published person specification and how you meet the essential and, where relevant, the desirable criteria for this particular post. If this has not been covered in the previous sections, please include your reasons for applying and take the opportunity to highlight your particular talents and strengths; what you feel you can personally offer; what is unique to you and what sets you apart from your peers.”
As you can see, this statement will require careful planning to ensure you are covering everything you have been asked for. Use the job description and the person specification to check your statement covers all the criteria the employer is looking for.
You will need to strike a balance between covering everything you want to say and keeping your statement manageable for the recruiter to read, especially if you have not been given a maximum word count. Where you can, group similar skills together and use examples to demonstrate how you use a range of skills to good effect.
Whether you are writing multiple shorter answers, or one long statement your response will also provide the employer an insight into your written communication skills. You will need to write concisely and clearly. Please double check your spelling and grammar.
Another key point to remember is to not repeat yourself. The employer will review your application form whole, so you do not need to duplicated information already used elsewhere in your application.
Online application forms usually allow you to save your progress as you go, so you don’t necessarily need to complete the form all in one sitting. Do give yourself enough time to complete the application forms though, as they’re usually more complex than simply sending off a CV and cover letter.
Consider writing your answers in Word (or equivalent) first and then transfer them to the form when you’re ready. And if you can, save a copy of the form or a copy of your answers as you will find this useful to refer to when you are preparing for an interview.
Finally, you may not know, but as well as reviewing CVs, the Careers and Employability Service can help you with your application forms too. So, if it will help to review your responses with an adviser, please make an appointment via My Career.