Most nursing vacancies now require the completion of an application form but only a portion of the hopeful applicants get invited to interview. So how do you make sure that you are one of the lucky ones?
Application forms are used as a way of standardizing the information employers receive from all applicants. Allow yourself plenty of time to fill the form in – you will probably need about 2 – 3 hours. Read it carefully so that you understand exactly what the employer is looking for and which questions overlap. Do your first draft on a photocopy of the form and don’t start to fill in the original until you are certain you have got the information right.
Research the employer and the actual job description thoroughly. Use the right keywords - look for clues in the job description as to what the employer wants. Next identify your relevant skills, experience and qualifications then tailor your application to the requirements of the post.
You will need the same information that you used to write your C.V. so it’s a good idea to keep it updated so that it’s always readily available for reference. Occasionally you will be asked to send your C.V. along as well as the application form. If so then ensure that all information is consistent and that all dates, names and other details coincide.
Include a cover letter with your form, but keep it brief, never more than a page, and use it to highlight particular skills or qualifications. It can also be used to emphasise the more important points if there is not enough space on the form. Cover letters and C.V.s should be typed though hand-written application forms are usually perfectly acceptable. Keep a photocopy of the finished form as it will be useful reminder of what you have told them when you go to the interview.
The personal statement is the part that many people find the hardest to complete. Often asking about experience, training, voluntary or unpaid work, this is your opportunity to sell yourself. Remember the skills and qualities the employer is looking for and use the personal statement to offer more evidence that makes you the ideal person for the job. Make it personal – the worst thing you can do is just write a statement that anybody could write. Try and add a hint of personality into what you write but don’t waffle. Address each point in the person specification and elaborate on key relevant points.
If you lack experience or knowledge in relation to what’s required then consider how you can compensate for this. Think about non-nursing jobs or hobbies where you have gained skills in areas such as team working, leadership or showing that you have initiative. Time out to bring up a family can help you develop skills in multi-tasking and negotiation. Consider all details carefully before dismissing anything as irrelevant.
Avoid making lists. If you are asked about your interests give details as to the extent you are involved in them and any clubs or societies that you are a member of. Don’t leave any blank spaces because they can make an application look half-hearted.
Carefully choose your referees. One of these will nearly always be your current employer, or a college tutor if you are newly qualified. Always ask their permission before adding their names, so that they will be more prepared when approached by your potential employer; and they will be more likely to give a considered and positive appraisal of your work.
Always keep in the back of your mind the reason for filling in the application form – to get you an interview. When you have completed your draft application ask yourself “If I was the recruiter and I read this application would I want to meet this person?” If the answer is no then consider why not, and what the form is lacking. If necessary throw it away and start again.
Always do a final check before sending your application off. Make sure that there are no spelling or grammatical errors. Use black ink because it will be clearer if the form has to be photocopied. Avoid any crossings out or large splodges of correcting fluid. If you do make a mess of the original form, if you’ve got time try and get another form.
It’s worth taking the time to get it right because you will maximise your impact and increase your chance of getting to that interview.
