Application hints and tips

Your application form or CV is your opportunity to tell us about yourself.

It gives you the chance to 'sell' your skills and experiences and emphasise your key skills and experience - to make your application stand out.  We have put together some hints and tips that we think will give you the best chance of success!

Completing your application form

If the vacancy you are applying for requires you to submit an application form you will be asked to enter your personal details for the first time or asked to log into the system.  The application form is designed in a number of sections.  You will notice that each section has a red cross next to it.  To complete the application form then you must complete each of these sections one by one. Once you have fully completed a section, the red cross will turn into a green tick.

Give yourself the best chance of success, remember to:

• Allow enough time to complete the application fully.
• Complete all sections of the application form.
• Keep a clear picture in your mind of the job for which you are applying and include information and examples about the skills and personal qualities you have that most closely match the job requirements.
• Take some time to think about your accomplishments and achievements.
• Make sure all the details on your application form are up to date and correct.
• Do a final check of your completed application form for spelling mistakes and errors.
• Once you are happy with your application, remember to press submit.

Preparing your Curriculum Vitae

CV is short for the Latin term "curriculum vitae" which means "the story of your life".  Your CV is your own personal marketing tool so by preparing a well presented  CV which contains information that supports your application in the most positive way, will give you the best chance of getting that all-important interview.

Give yourself the best chance of success, remember to:

• Keep your CV concise and factual.
• Think about the layout and presentation.
• Use simple language and avoid using jargon and cliche's.
• Include information that is relevant and up to date for example: personal details including contact details, employment history to date, qualifications, experience etc.
• Sell what you have to offer an organisation.
• Tailor your CV to the particular role and organisation.
• Study the role statement and advert to identify the key skills required for the role and include information and examples about the skills and personal qualities you have that most closely match the job requirements.
• Include a covering letter explaining how you meet the requirements of the role.
• Check your CV for spelling mistakes and errors.
• Once you are happy with your CV, remember to submit it!