YOUR APPLICATION – SOME HELPFUL HINTS

 

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The application form plays an important part in the selection process and is the only written submission that will be considered, you may also send in a C.V, which may be useful. The application form helps us decide whether to shortlist you for interview and is used as a basis for the interview itself. Each post has a job description from which the attributes are drawn which the ideal candidate should have. This is called the person specification. The following advice will help you complete the application form effectively and help us to match you with the person specification.

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OBTAIN THE FULL JOB DETAILS

Every job is supported by details about its location and the sort of qualifications, skills and experience the right candidate will need. Please study these carefully if there is anything that you do not understand please call the manager at the unit who will be happy to help you. However, he cannot discuss the details of the post you are applying for.

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ANALYSE THE JOB DETAILS

Ask yourself why you are interested in the job. A good career move, promotion, changes of direction. Be realistic.

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LOOK AT YOUR EXPERIENCE

What evidence do you have, that you have the necessary skills, knowledge and experience?

 

Experiment by explaining you present and/or previous jobs to someone else. This may help to uncover hidden skills etc. You take for granted. If you are an internal candidate, remember to highlight any relevant experience both inside and outside the company.  Include relevant experiences that you have gained outside of work such as community/Voluntary or leisure interests.

 

READY TO FILL IN THE FORM

Do a rough draft first, possibly on a photocopy of the blank form. This way you will ensure that the form is well organised and relevant. Some details like the position that you are applying for may not have been filled in on the application form before it was sent to you, if so please enter the details before returning it.

 

DESCRIPTION OF CURRENT JOB (IF YOU HAVE ONE)

In describing your current job, do not go into too much detail but ensure that you cover the main features of your current position.

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EMPLOYMENT HISTORY

Check that the dates are correct, in the right order and you account for any gaps between positions. It is important to include any part time work or work undertaken on a voluntary basis in the appropriate section as this will be cross referenced at the short listing stage.

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YOU’RE EXPERIENCE

Remember that you are in competition with others for an interview. Use this space to show clearly how you match the person specification and can do the duties in the job description.

Every post advertised is supported by a full job specification. Make sure you have obtained one with your application form. The skills, experience and qualifications described are all necessary for the job and are criteria against which you will be assessed.

 

Gear your application to the specific job and don’t repeat your career history, give evidence that you have the skills, knowledge and experience we need. Use active words like “I wrote / Planned / organised”.

 

COMPLETE THE FORM IN FULL

Use a black ballpoint pen and ensure that it is well presented and easily readable.

 

SEND IN YOUR FORM BEFORE THE CLOSING DATE

Keep a copy to help you prepare for the interview and make sure that you complete and sign the monitoring and health declaration sections.

 

The closing date for application is usually two or three weeks from the date of the initial receipt of the application form.

 

IF YOU ARE SHORLISTED

Usually only 6-8 people per vacancy are interviewed. You will be contacted and advised of the interview date and time.

 

THE INTERVIEW

We will interview only those who have been short-listed to test further your suitability for appointment against the criteria in the job details. Again, we shall be looking for hard evidence of suitability. Some jobs may require a test as well as interview, but you will be told about this when you are short-listed.

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REHABILITATION OF OFFENDERS/PROTECTION OF CHILDREN

Inspire Support Services recognises its responsibilities under legislation in relation to criminal convictions. If you need any advice on this, please contact the unit manager. In relation to posts working closely with children, we are required to check with the police for details of any criminal convictions. Any convictions not declared on the form will result in the application being withdrawn from the selection process.

 

INSPIRE SUPPORT SERVICES REQUIREMENTS

Appointments are made subject to the following considerations.

• Satisfactory references being obtained.

• Inspire Support Services conditions of service.

• Attendance at any induction training that Inspire Support Services requires.

• A period of six months’ probation.

• Written acceptance of Inspire Support Services equal opportunities policy.

• That you are medically fit enough to perform the duties of the position applied for.

• We have seen your birth certificate, driving licence and /or insurance. (Not Photocopies)