Job applications forms, whether online or on paper, are the first vital step to getting a job interview. This step by step guide explains how to give employers the information they need to put you on the shortlist. Although some graduate recruiters prefer cvs, the majority ask applicants to complete a job application form, either online or on paper.

These forms generally include standard biographical information eg about your education and experience , along with some open ended questions that give you the chance to highlight your suitability for the job. Many recruiters prefer application forms to cvs because they help to standardise applications. The downside is that this standardised approach also allows recruiters to filter out unsuitable candidates quickly sometimes this is even done by computer , so it's important to include all the information necessary to make your case. Employers use written applications to select candidates for interview, and may also refer to information on the form during the interview. Do you meet their criteria? this information lets them filter candidates into a 'long list'. Make sure you check the job description and prove that you match the requirements.

Do you stand out among the other applicants? this is what helps recruiters make their shortlist for interview. If other candidates have similar qualifications it may be your work experience or extra curricular activities that reveal your employment potential. Contact the people you want to use as referees, to get their permission and to confirm their contact details. Some employers start processing applications before the closing date – and they are usually deluged by last minute applications – so if you submit yours early you may get more attention. Read the job description and personal specification to find out what skills and experience they are looking for. Research the organisation for more clues about the kind of applicant who would be successful.

Give yourself enough time: writing a good job application is likely to take longer than you expect. Follow all instructions and answer the questions asked yes, it is a bit like an exam!. If there is a question that does not apply to you, write ‘not applicable’ or ‘n/a’ in the appropriate box. This shows that you have considered the question and is better than leaving blanks. Some online forms allow you to ‘save and return’ but some have to be completed in one sitting. This gives you thinking time and lets you check your answers before pasting the text into the form.

Use a word processed document to write longer answers so you can edit and spell check them first. Write for online applications in the same way as you would for a paper form: beware of lapsing into the informal style you might use when sending emails to friends. You may have to use standard typefaces etc so follow any instructions you are given.

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If a recruiter is using scanning software, you'll also need to ensure you include keywords for the specific skills and qualifications that they have asked for. Some online application forms include built in psychometric tests, so it’s useful to get some practice in first. Most application forms will include questions such as ‘why are you suitable for the job?’, ‘what is your greatest achievement?’ and ‘what are your interests and hobbies?’ don't ignore it: this is your chance to make an impact. This gives you a chance to reveal something of your personality: aim to show that you’re more interesting than other candidates with similar work experience and grades. Use a range of examples from all areas of your life – college, work and other interests/activities.

Sometimes an application form will just have the heading ‘additional information': this is an open invitation to tell them what you want them to know. However the question is worded, your answers should demonstrate that you are a well rounded individual with the skills, aptitude and personality to do the job and to fit into the organisation. Here are some final checks before you send off your application form: are your personal details accurate? have you spelt the employer's name correctly? have you filled in all the fields? have you signed the form and cover letter? have you kept a copy? take your time: it could take several hours and a lot of concentration to complete an application form. Think about what's behind each question: what are recruiters looking for? keep a copy for reference: if it’s a paper form, photocopy it if it’s online, print it out before you hit ‘send’. Make sure you meet all the employer’s criteria, and make it easy for them to see this.

Job description person specification application form cv positive mental attitude! before you begin your application, it is important to do some research into the organisation and role you are applying to. By demonstrating that you have read a little about the organisation and its context in your application, you will come across as interested and motivated as well as be better placed to tailor your application to the job. Always take the opportunity to talk to a recruitment consultant or line manager if possible.

They will bring the job to life and help you focus your application to the most important criteria. Prudent tailoring of your cv, application and supporting statement to the job at hand goes miles in highlighting your engagement and relevance to a potential employer. Generic application materials stick out like a sore thumb and don rsquo t impress. Open your cv with a lsquo personal profile rsquo highlighting skills you bring relevant to the job you are seeking, and give examples throughout your application that firmly showcase your strengths, skills and successes within the context of the role you are pursuing. If you pitch your experience to look both impressive and highly relevant, an employer will start to imagine you in the role.

It rsquo s critical to present your application material in an articulate but concise way. You may have a lot to offer but if your most pertinent experience gets lost amidst 15 pages of you waxing lyrical about why you want the role, or everything you have done professionally under the sun, you put yourself at a major disadvantage. At this stage, employers have limited time to sift through numerous applications so clear, concise, topical answers are essential to making your relevance easy to digest. Briefly, why do you want this job? is it a step up, or a parallel move? how does it fit / enhance / compliment your career path to date? particularly when seeking a lateral move across fields or role types, explain why your experience is transferable.