Application Tips

The sole objective of your application is to convince the selection panel that you are the person they are looking for to fill their vacancy.

While there is no ‘right way’ of preparing your written application, you should consider the following:

  • Applications should be easy to read – typed or neatly hand written. Vital information might be lost if panel members are unable to read your application during the short listing process. 
  • Don’t waste your money on presentation folders, plastic covers, binding etc. simply staple in the top left hand corner
  • Make sure your application is addressed properly.
  • Ensure you include the job title and the reference number on your Application Form (when supplied). 
  • Keep your originals! Only copies of your licences, certificates, qualifications etc should be forwarded with your application as these are kept with the recruitment file and are not returned to you.

Read the ‘How to Apply’ very carefully. This will tell you what information the panel requires from you. Failing to complete the required documentation may result in your application not being short listed.

You may be asked to provide the following:

  • Current CV
  • 1-2 page letter outlining how you meet position requirements
  • Response to selection criteria (Provide relevant Examples)
  • Copies of relevant qualifications, tickets and/or licences

Remember, not all applications require a letter or response to selection criteria. Only prepare these responses if they are required! A quick check of the Cover Sheet will tell you exactly what you need to provide.

Let’s look at these in more detail.

Current CV (Resume)

Your CV should be short summary of the following information: 

  • Personal details – name, address, contact telephone numbers, email address (it is very important that these details are correct). If you plan on moving, or changing your telephone number please let us know.
  • Education – list all education details from most recent to past. Include all relevant tertiary, school, training courses, qualifications, experiences etc. You should always provide copies of any qualifications you have with your application.
  • Work history – list all work history from most recent to past. Volunteer and work experience should be listed here as well if relevant to the role you are applying for. Provide the employer’s/company name, name of direct supervisor and list your key duties.
  • Additional Information – list any licences (including driver’s licence, plant operation tickets, truck licences, construction industry blue card, first-aid certificates etc.) You should always provide copies of any tickets or licences you have with your application.
  • Referees – you will be required to provide a minimum of 2 work related referees, preferably supervisors who can provide honest feedback about your work performance. The Panel Chairperson may contact both referees and or previous employers during the shortlisting phase. Should you not want previous employers contacted you must indicate this in your application or at interview. Remember to contact your referees and ask their permission first. Do not include personal referees unless you don’t have any others that you can utilize.

Your Letter

Firstly, not every application will require a letter. Check the position Cover Sheet for what is required.
 
Here is your introduction to the selection panel. Your first paragraph should make reference to the position title, introduce you as a candidate and give a short summary as to why you are interested in the position.
 
The following paragraph/s should discuss the requirements of the position and why/how you meet those requirements. Remember to keep your letter short and to the point, this is only an introduction. Be sure to proof read everything before submitting with your application – spelling errors detract from the information you are trying to convey.

Selection Criteria

Once again, not every application will require your responses to Selection Criteria. Check the position Cover Sheet for what is required.

The selection criteria will outline the skills, abilities, knowledge, qualifications and experience that the panel are looking for. It is imperative that you address each and every one of the selection criteria, where required. Panel members use the selection criteria as a basic way of comparing and scoring applications, and deciding on who progresses further to the interview stage.

Each selection criteria should be addressed, with as much detail about how you meet the position requirements as possible. Short paragraphs or dot points work very well. This is your first opportunity to demonstrate to the panel how you meet the requirements of the job.

So how do you address the selection criteria? Begin by making a short statement about why you meet the criteria. Follow this with examples, experience and any other supporting information.