Career guidance

Finding the right job for you is the tricky bit, that is why we want to make it easier for you to get shortlisted and perform well at interview. We want to bring the best out of our candidates and support you into a successful appointment. 

Writing your application

We always get asked, what makes a good application? Well, it's simple really. Make sure you read the job description and person specification in detail. It's really important that you fully understand what the recruiting manager is looking for and that you take time to evidence in your application how you meet the criteria. 

Is the role for you | Recruiting managers will be looking at your application to see if you are a good match, not only for the role, but for the team. They do this by comparing your application to the person specification. So, to stand the best chance of getting shortlisted, make sure that you cover every point in the person specification in your application. Just treat each point within the person specification as a question which you need to answer. Once you have checked them all off, you are good to go. You can do this in your qualification section or when describing current and previous roles. If you haven't been able to cover it there, make sure you provide evidence in your supporting information. We also recommend using some real examples within the supporting information to strengthen your application. Remember, that your application can be used as part of the interview. 

Personalise it | Always make your application personalised to the role - in theory, you shouldn't ever be able to submit the same application twice as the person specification for every job is different. Also referencing the job title in the supporting information clearly shows the shortlisters that you are aware of the role you are applying for. 

Don't leave any sections out | Always remember to complete all sections of the application form. Read the instructions within the advert and application form carefully to make sure that you don't miss anything. Missing certain information could result in your application being rejected. 

Sell yourself | Take the opportunity to sell yourself to the shortlisters and tell them exactly why you are perfect for the role. Make sure that your enthusiasm and passion comes across throughout your application as this is what will help you stand out from the crowd. Again, this is your opportunity to tell the shortlisters anything which you may not have been able to cover elsewhere. Try and think of anything you have achieved in a previous role which was quite unique to your colleagues, these are the kinds of things shortlisters want to hear about. 

If you want more information on how to complete an application form on NHS Jobs, please click here.