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GUIDANCE – COMPLETING YOUR APPLICATION

Please read these guidance notes carefully before completing the Application Form.

The application form is a key part of any selection process and so it is very important that you complete it properly.

Because it is not possible to interview every applicant for a vacancy, it is necessary to draw up a shortlist.  The application form is therefore very important as it is used in all stages of the recruitment process.  The criteria used for shortlisting purposes is contained in the Person Specification.

Please follow the guidelines below:-

• It is often helpful to write out a rough draft before filling in the application form to clarify ideas and avoid mistakes later.

• Incomplete forms will not be accepted.

• Ensure you include the title of the post you are applying for in the box provided.

• Do not enclose a CV as to keep in line with our Diversity & Equality Policy, we can only consider the information submitted in the application form.

• Make your reasons for applying for the job as relevant as possible.  Do not only look at work experience you have had, but also at experience you may have gained outside a work setting which may be useful.

Give clear examples of how you meet each of the essential criteria listed on the Person Specification.
             Example
One of the essential criteria for the job you have applied for may be:

“Experience of working with the public”

In covering this criteria in your application it would not be sufficient for you to state:

“I have experience of working with the public”

This would not give those shortlisting any idea of what your experience actually is and so reduces your chances of being shortlisted.  Remember, you will be in competition with other applicants who may provide more information.  You should therefore give examples of how you meet the criteria…….. but without writing pages on each !

In outlining how your experience meets the criteria you could say something like:

“In my previous job, I had two years experience of dealing with customers both over the phone and face-to-face.  I was responsible for………  This involved……………  In my current post I deal with the public on a daily basis which involves ……….. etc.

On the person specification, you may also see criteria that are described as “desirable”.  Again, where you meet these criteria, you should explain how on your application form.  However, if you do not meet such criteria, do not be put off.  This will not mean that you will not be shortlisted, as long as you meet the essential criteria.

• Ensure that your referees include your present and previous employers.

• Do not include references or testimonials.

• Please ensure that you provide all of the information requested, and sign the form.

Completed application forms must be received by 5pm on the closing date, unless stated otherwise on the advertisement.  You should hear within 10 days of the closing date if you have been shortlisted.  If you do not hear from us, your application has not been successful on this occasion.  Please do not hesitate to call us to obtain feedback if you wish.

Thank you for your interest in Hexagon Housing Association.

Hopefully, you will now be clear about the kind of information on your skills and experience, which you will need to ensure is presented on your application form.  However, if you require clarification, please contact the Human Resources Department on 0208 768 7941, who will be pleased to assist you.

Good luck with your application.
 

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