Date Posted: Jun 13, 2022
Luke signed up to DurhamWorks in January 2021 as he had completed a Level 2 catering course at East Durham College, and he was struggling to find employment.
Luke’s main goal was to get a job in the hospitality and catering industry but due to the pandemic and lockdown, his job search had been put on hold. Luke’s work coach at the job centre put him forward for a Kickstart vacancy at Alice House Hospice which Luke was successful in securing and started a 6-month employment contract as a kitchen assistant. He started in the May and his contract finished in December 2021. During his Kickstart pl...
Read MoreApplying for jobs can be daunting at the best of times and more so if its the first time you are doing it.
Help with application forms...
So, you're faced with a long, blank form. Well if you don't fill it in you've got no chance of getting the job!
There are a few things you need to do before anything else, it will make filling the application easier and also help you understand more about the company.
Take your time... First, if it is a paper application take a copy of the form so that you've got a practice sheet. You can also use it as a copy of the form to remind yourself of what you've written.
Note: If you can't take a copy, write out your answers in rough before filling in the form.
If the application is electronic copy the questions and type your answers in before you upload or save your final version.
Not all application forms follow the same pattern, but most will include the following:
This is quite important. It may say something like, 'space is provided here for you to write why you want to be considered for the job', or 'Further Information to support your application'.
They want to know why they should consider your application rather than one from someone else who may have equally good qualifications and experience. This is where you must sell yourself and try to stand out from the crowd!
...and most importantly tell the truth!
Well done! Don't forget to take a copy as it will help you if you get an interview and you can always refer to it when completing other forms. Why not set up a file to keep them in?
Lastly, don't forget to post it or email it on time!
Note: If possible don't fold it too much - it creates a much better impression and is easier to read if it's not creased.
When you apply for a job, once you have completed your CV or application form you will also have to write a covering letter to include when you send it to the employer.
Here are some hints on what to write:
If you have been lucky enough to be invited for an interview please read our interview web page for help with preparation and interview skills.