Many organisations prefer to use application forms to gather information on prospective interviewees. The main benefit for this type of application is that it ensures that every applicant has been asked to provide the same information in the same form ensuring equality and the ability to judge candidates on the pre-set skill list that will have been devised using the Person Specification provided with Job Description.

The challenge is to provide the information requested and also to stand out from the crowd. The skills and achievements that you would put on your CV/Resume should be incorporated where relevant. Occasionally a CV/Resume will be requested along with the form. Do not refer to this on your form by cross-referencing, your form should be completed as a standalone document. If a supporting statement is requested it is best to reread the person specification and your application form and write the statement to include all aspects of the person specification, using transferable skills if necessary.

If possible, send the application electronically, it will be neater and easier to read, plus you will find it easier to fit all the text you want on the form in the fields. If this is not possible you can make a copy and practise to ensure written text fits within the allocated space.

If handwriting the forms, remember to use black ink and not to attach the pages as often these are photocopied and distributed to the interview panel. Make sure you have the forms in before the closing date and call to ensure they have been received.