What makes a good application form?

Application forms can be daunting. Remember that a good application form will:

• demonstrate that you are able to learn from the roles and experiences you have had through the answers you provide to the questions
• answer the actual questions, rather than just listing the roles you have undertaken
• provide evidence that you know what the firm does without regurgitating their website

Our tips below will help you complete application forms with confidence!

DO...

• Be clear about why you are applying to the organisation
• Think about how the person reading the form will view your answers; they don't know you so what impression do you wish to create?
• Be concise
• Read through your application carefully and check for typos, and then ask someone you trust to proofread it for you
• Keep a copy of the form so you can refresh your memory later if you are invited to interview

DON'T...

• Simply cut and paste answers from other application forms as you are unlikely to answer the specific question
• Give one line answers or write an essay for each question. Think about how to keep your reader's attention
• Repeat yourself or repeat the examples you have previously used for another question
• Use slang or jargon
• Use clichés