Application & Interview Advice

29 July 2008

Your Application

There are some general points to remember when completing any application form:

• The application form is the first step in the recruitment process which may lead to an interview and a possible job offer.  It is therefore essential to complete it to the best of your ability, as it forms the first impression of your application. 
   
• Read the instructions on the application form carefully before completing it.
   
• It is important that you complete ALL sections of the application form which are relevant to you as clearly and fully as possible. Applicants who conceal or misrepresent relevant information at any stage will be disqualified from appointment or, if appointed, may be dismissed without notice.
   
• Take time to complete your application form as this will be the main information used to decide whether you will be selected for further consideration.
   
• The Person Specification gives details of the experience, skills and abilities needed to carry out the duties. Every application will be compared against the person specification.  When completing your application remember you must show clearly how your knowledge, skills and experience are relevant to the requirements of the post.
   
• The supporting statement is one of the most important parts of the form.  You should cross reference your skills against the criteria listed on the Person Specification.  Each skill should be supported by evidence highlighting when you have demonstrated this skill.  This can include interests outside of work.  The short-listing process will focus on this area.
   
• The Job Description should provide details of the purpose of the job, the level of responsibility, and the duties to be performed.  This is an opportunity for you to see if the job is really the one for you.
   
• If you are submitting your application by post please type or write your application clearly in black ink so it can be photocopied for the selection panel. If there is insufficient space, please use blank A4 sheets as continuation sheets. Make sure that you mark them clearly with your name, the job title and reference number.
   
• If you are handwriting your application, please ensure it is completed legibly.
   
• Application forms are used to ensure that information is presented in a standard format and that only information relevant to the selection procedure is provided. This ensures applicants are treated fairly and equally. If you choose to submit a curriculum vitae (CV) this must be as an addition to but not instead of submitting a completed application form.
   
• Under the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 employers have a duty to make reasonable adjustments where, compared to a non-disabled person, a disabled person is substantially disadvantaged by either the working arrangements (which include the recruitment process) or the working environment.  If you have a disability it is a good idea to contact the employer direct to discuss any arrangements that you may require to allow you to complete the application form and attend interview if you are short-listed.
   
• It is a good idea to keep a photocopy of your application to refer to if you are invited for interview.
   
• Make sure you return your completed application before the closing date specified on the job advert. There is no guarantee that late applications will be considered.

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Your Interview

Whether you have attended several interviews or only a few there are several things to remember if you are invited for an interview:

• Do your homework. Before the interview try to find out as much as you can about the organisation - get hold of any company literature and use the internet. If you are lucky enough to know anyone who works for the organisation then find out as much as you can from them. You should already have a copy of the job description and person specification - remember to re-read them.
   
• Dress appropriately and smartly. Make sure the clothes you wear are appropriate for the industry and job.
   
• Make sure you know where the interview is to be held.  If you need to prepare a map so you know how to get there.
   
• Arrive early so that you have time to relax and prepare yourself.  Be friendly and greet your interviwer with a smile.  Try to make informal conversation with them - this will help to relax you.
   
• You are likely to be asked a number of questions about your previous jobs - make sure you have this information clear in your mind. You will also be asked questions based on the job description and specification - make sure you are clear about the role and be prepared to show how your skills and experience match the person specification. Show an interest in the organisation.
   
• Prepare a number of questions for your interviewer about the job, benefits, career development and training. Make a list of these to take to the interview with you. You can also make notes of any other points which come up in discussion and which you may want to clarify later in the interview.
   
• Talk to the interviewer about their role in the organisation and how much contact you will have with them if you are appointed.
   
• If you decide that you want the job then make that clear to them at the interview. Find out whether there will be any further interviews and when they will inform you.

 Good luck!