The Six Golden Rules of Job Applications

Applying for a job can feel like a bit of a minefield! Follow our six golden tips for applying for a job and take the stress out of filling in job application forms:

1) Read the advert carefully
Ensure you read the additional documents thoroughly. Try to include keywords from the advert in your reason for application and demonstrate how you meet the criteria listed on the person specification.

Think about the person reading through the application forms, especially if you are applying for a sought-after role which is likely to attract numerous applicants, don’t let your submission stand out for the wrong reasons. Ensure your application form is easy to read, covers the requirements of the job and provides clear and relevant examples to back up what you are writing.

If you are completing the school’s own downloadable job application form, make sure that the font you use is easy to read and looks professional. 

2) Tailor your application for each role
Always tailor your reason for applying for every vacancy you apply for, try to include the name of the school, the job title and any aspects of the role that appeals to you. It’s all too easy to copy and paste text from a generic statement, but this will stand out a mile.  

3) Check your application 
Always double check your job application form before clicking the submit button. Better still, ask a friend or family member to read it for you as it can be easy to miss mistakes yourself. Spelling and grammatical errors won’t give a good first impression and could be the difference between you being invited to interview or being unsuccessful in your application.

4) Visit the school 
It is common practice in the education sector for candidates to visit the school before applying for a vacancy. Visiting the school will show that you are committed and will also give you lots to write about in your application! 

5) Do your research
Job applications are a two-way process which will help you decide if the school and the vacancy are right for you. Look at the school’s website and read the latest Ofsted report to find out as much as possible about them. Not only is this knowledge useful should you be interviewed, but it can also help you decide if you want to apply in the first place. 

6) Ensure you have quality references
Always check with your referees before putting them on the application form that they are happy to be approached for a reference. In education, referees will be contacted prior to the job interview so make sure you supply the correct contact details so they can be easily contacted. If you have no work experience, you can add the contact details of a former teacher, mentor or voluntary leader (with permission).

Good luck with your application; we hope you found these six job application tips useful!