Job application are an essential part of the process of searching for job opportunities, and these applications are usually comprehensive and detailed, which may make you feel frustrated and hopeless when you have to fill one out. However, do not worry; in today’s article, we will learn about the most important tips and steps that ensure that you fill out the application correctly and thus obtain the job opportunity that you aspire to.
Why use submissions?
Many ask why companies use applications, especially with CVs, and the answer is simple: considering applications is often faster and easier than looking at resume files that come in different forms. In the event that the company is looking for a large number of employees, it will be easier for it to compare applicants by developing a standard job application that includes specific questions. This is to select candidates in the first stage of the recruitment process and then look at their CVs to select the best of them.
How do I fill out a job application?
Although it seems pointless, application submissions definitely need to be given enough time and effort. In the event that you are having difficulty filling out job applications, then you should follow these steps:
1- Allocate enough time to fill out the application form.
Start by writing down important dates, such as the job application deadline. And make sure that you start filling out the application some time before that date, and then allocate enough time so that you can fill out the application slowly, which avoids you making mistakes that may prevent you from getting the job.
2- Write down the important details.
Make sure to read the job description well before you start filling out the application. Write down the main tasks included in this job opportunity, the most important experiences and skills required, and make sure that you possess these skills and are able to carry out these responsibilities to the fullest.
3- Do some research.
Before you start filling out the application, do some research on the company or organization you are applying for. Take a look at its official website on the Internet and learn about its most important current and past projects, read about its goals and vision, and take side notes about it. This information will be of great help to you when answering questions such as: “Why do you want to work with us?”
4- Be honest.
Always make sure to answer the questions asked in your job application honestly and in a straightforward manner that is easy to understand. You don’t have to write a lot, and don’t copy the sentences you wrote on your resume; the employer will notice it.
If you are afraid that your answers may reflect your inexperience (for example, if there is a question about a certain skill that you do not possess), do not try to cover it up with a lie. Instead, be honest and explain how your current skills will help you in this area. For example, to show that you are a quick-witted person and a quick learner,
5- Write a draft before you start filling out the application.
After you read the job description, write down the most important required skills on a side sheet (such as communication skills, experience using MS Office programs, event management skills, etc.). Then, under each point, write down all your achievements and experiences in this field, as this will make it much easier for you to answer the questions.
After you finish writing this draft, review it and correct spelling and grammatical errors. Be careful to avoid repeating the same sentences and vocabulary throughout the job application.
6- Be formal
Always keep your job application formal and avoid using slang or emoji. Also, it is important to avoid using various types of technical terms that you may not know much about. The employer can determine the extent of your experience depending on your age and qualifications, so do not write any terms in the application unless you are ready to talk about them during the interview.
7- Take a break
After you’ve done all of the above, it’s time to take a short break. Go make yourself a cup of tea, get some fresh air, or do whatever helps you relax, then come back an hour later to your application for your final copy. You will notice that after this break, you will be better able to identify errors and weaknesses in your application and correct them.
8- Check the application form.
Never underestimate the importance of proofreading your application before sending it, correcting errors, and putting periods and commas in the appropriate places. This may seem simple, but it plays an essential role in the selection process. Keep in mind that the employer seeks, through the job application, to read an understandable and coherent text and not just a chaotic listing of all your skills.
After you finish checking your application, ask someone you know to take a last look at it. Sometimes we can’t see our mistakes. Then read it one last time, and you will be ready to send your application along with any other documents (CV, cover letter, academic certificates, etc.).
Final tips
Your application is now ready, and you can submit it at any time, but it may be useful to take a look at these tips that contribute to increasing your chances and making your job application stand out:
1. When answering essay questions
- As much as possible, try to limit the space available to you or the number of words required.
- Do not write everything that comes to mind about your experiences, but only mention what is compatible with the job you are applying for.
2. When answering questions related to reference persons
- Make sure that at least one of these persons is related to your professional career, such as your former manager or your supervisor in a previous job, etc.
- In the event that you are a fresh graduate, then make sure that one of the reference persons is from your educational background, such as: an academic supervisor, your professor at the university, etc.
- Don’t forget to include the reference person’s full name, title, address, email, and phone number.
- Ask permission from these people before you include them as references.
- Keep references informed about the jobs you have applied for and include their names on your job application.
3. After sending the request
- Keep a copy of your application so that if you are called for an interview, you can review your answers because the interviewer will ask you about them and ask you to talk more about what you wrote in your job application.
If you follow these steps and tips exactly, the result will be a professional application that guarantees you access to the job interview stage. What would you like to learn more about job applications? Share your opinions with us in the comment box below.
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