a
pplications:
writing to win
Applications are a crucial element
Online applications
in the selection process of almost all Many organisations now require candidates to fill
organisations. Whether you are applying
out application forms online. Most of the same
for a vacation position or graduate job, the
principles apply, but there are differences that you
quality of your application will be critical.
need to be aware of.
If it is of a high standard, you will maximize
Online application forms often have to be
your chance of being selected for interview
completed in one sitting: you can’t save and come
or testing. If your application is poor, you
back to it later. Be prepared and make sure you
are selling yourself short and are unlikely to
have given yourself plenty of time.
have much success.
If possible, download a hard copy of the form
and write a few drafts before you complete a
The best applications make an impact. Remember final copy online. As with submitting a hard copy
that there will be other candidates with similar application, you need to take your time.
skill sets and qualifications so it is important your
Some online forms allow applicants to go back
application clearly highlights and demonstrates
to previous fields and change information
all your strengths, accomplishments and
throughout the process.
experience. A job application generally consists of
a cover letter, résumé and statement against the
Cover letters
selection criteria. Some organisations also require
Cover letters should be written individually for
you to complete an application form.
each application and should be kept to one page.
The aim is to provide a clear, well-expressed
Please fill out this form...
summary of your key attributes, careers goals and
Application forms allow organisations to make
suitability for the position. Think of it as like an
direct comparisons between candidates, set their
abstract to a journal article: you are not rewriting
own agenda, and assess how well and concisely
your résumé in your cover letter, but presenting a
applicants express themselves. The form will
concise case for your suitability for the position.
generally require you to provide biographical
details and a summary of your skills, academic
Résumé or curriculum vitae?
results, experience, employment history and
What is the difference between a résumé and
extracurricular interests. You might be asked
curriculum vitae (CV)? These terms are generally
to comment on a specific issue or hypothetical
interchangeable, but in some countries a CV refers
problem. Remember to:
to an expanded resume which includes more
• Make some copies of the original form to use as
information on experience and achievements. If
working documents
you are applying for overseas positions make sure
you are clear about what they are asking for.
• Read through the whole application form before
you write anything and make draft answers Structure & style
• Complete hard copy application forms in black Your résumé needs to communicate your
or blue ink and make sure your writing is legible. personal and contact details, academic record,
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 44 Page 45 Page 46 Page 47 Page 48 Page 49 Page 50 Page 51 Page 52 Page 53 Page 54 Page 55 Page 56 Page 57 Page 58 Page 59 Page 60 Page 61 Page 62 Page 63 Page 64 Page 65 Page 66 Page 67 Page 68 Page 69 Page 70 Page 71 Page 72 Page 73 Page 74 Page 75 Page 76 Page 77 Page 78 Page 79 Page 80 Page 81 Page 82 Page 83 Page 84 Page 85 Page 86 Page 87 Page 88