Application forms should never be completed in a hurry! This is another ideal opportunity for you to sell your skills. It is a good idea to make copies of the application to practise on prior to completing the form properly. This will provide you with the opportunity to correct any mistakes and decide on the best possible answers.

Another method for completing an application form is to type it, but beware - this can become difficult!!  If you decide to type your application, we again highly recommend the use of practise forms.  On the other hand, if the form is going to be hand-written, ensure you make use of a black pen and obviously make sure your handwriting is neat and legible.

Also, make sure you include sufficient information about your past so that an employer is clear as to what your responsibilities and duties were and take the opportunity to give the employer some extra information about yourself through use of the "further information" section - normally located at the end of most application forms.

Common problems encountered when completing application forms:

The most common mistakes when completing application forms include: smudges, messy corrections, and writing outside the allocated space.  Another, and the most common mistake, is illegible handwriting. Do not abbreviate words - they may sound clever but the reader might not understand.  Also, ensure the use of the full company names and do not use negative comments, such as "I got bored", as a reason for leaving a previous position!

On our site you will also find some useful advice with regards to the questions on an application form.

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