CVs, letters and application forms

Every job vacancy attracts many applicants. Employers use application forms, letters and CVs to separate out unsuitable candidates and helps them decide who to invite for interview. It's the first chance you have to impress the employer, so it's important you spend time on these and think carefully about how you present yourself. Remember you are trying to convince somebody that you are the most suitable person for the job.

Some important things to know

Keep a record of all applications you make together with copies as well as noting down dates, name of organisation and job details. Always be honest about your qualifications and experience and make sure your spelling, punctuation and grammar are correct. If you name referees, make sure you get their permission first. You can send a CV and letter to an employer you'd like to work for, even if they are not advertising.

CVs

A CV (Curriculum Vitae) is a record of information that is used to let an employer know factual information about you. The purpose of a CV is to help 'sell' you to an employer and hopefully get you an interview. It isn't going to get you a job by itself.

There’s no one correct way of writing a CV though do consider the following:

• Ideally it should be no longer than 2 sides of A4 paper
• Type up your CV on a computer so that it can be easily read and updated
• Use headings and bullet points and an easy to read font such as Arial or Times New Roman, size 12, that is clearly presented
• Include personal details, education/training, qualifications, work experience/employment details, interests and references
• You may wish to include a personal profile, skills and personal qualities
• Ask someone to read through it for you to check if you have spelt everything correctly and for their advice

Find out more on direct.gov.uk.

Letters

If the job advert says, 'write for further details' or 'write for an application form', do just that. Make your letter short, neat and clear; even this sort of letter can affect the impression you make. If, however, the advert says apply in writing, you should give full details about yourself and your reasons for applying for the job. Don't forget when sending a CV to an employer you should always include a covering letter; in this case detailed information about yourself aren't needed.

• Explain why you are suitable for the role
• Include the job title or reference number of the job you're applying for
• Make sure your spelling, punctuation and grammar are correct
• If you start 'Dear Sir/Madam' you should end 'Yours faithfully'. Use 'Yours sincerely' only if you are writing to somebody by name
• Tell them when you are free for an interview

Find out more on direct.gov.uk.

Applications forms

• Read through the whole form and make sure you understand what it is they're asking for before you start to fill it in
• Know the deadline to return the form and allow enough time to complete it
• Follow any instructions, such as 'write in block capitals' or 'use black ink'
• Draft out your answers on a notepad first and get someone else to read through them
• Treat online applications the same as paper ones. Make sure your email address is sensible and check it regularly
• Try to answer all questions, even if you think they are irrelevant
• Be truthful and highlight how your skills relate to the job as much as possible
• Keep a copy of the form so you can refer to it if called for interview

Find out more on direct.gov.uk.