Rather than asking an applicant to send in a resume, some companies are now asking that a standard application form be filled out. These are being used in order for the organisation to ensure they receive the same information from all of their applicants. It gives an overview for the employer as to who they should shortlist for the position based on the experience and traits that they want.

Lloyd Harrington consultants recommend the following advice when filling out an application form for a job:

• Note any specific guidelines given by employees on filling out the form - e.g. how specific they want you to be, or even just if they want you to use black or blue pen or block letters.  
• It is also worthwhile to photocopy the application form to do a draft before you write on the original. This will ensure that you write your answers in clear and concise language, and that you make no errors on the form that you will submit. 
• It is important to answer questions accurately. Make sure you read the questions carefully, in order to give the desired response.
• Practicing writing out the response separately to ensure it will fit into the space provided will ensure that the presentation is up to scratch.
• Make sure you photocopy the application once you have filled it out. This is important so that you can familiarise yourself with the answers you gave before the interview. 
• If the form is handwritten, make sure it is legible! 
• Make sure you submit the application before the closing date.