Many large graduate recruiters now take, and often insist on, applications online. In a lot of cases, prospective employees are able to upload other documents, like a CV or covering letter. The online systems used are often very sophisticated and occasionally confusing to fill out. This article is to help build your confidence when applying for graduate jobs using online application forms.
Normally when you first register your application online, you will be given a password, which will enable you to save your work if you need a break. Do not forget your password, and write it down if necessary. In the case that you are not permitted to save your application before you have finished it, make sure that you will be able to fill it out in the time limit provided. It may help if you familiarise yourself with the particular application system before you begin filling it out. You could copy your answers regularly into Word or another word processor, saving them in case the system crashes before you save it and avoid filling in the form at the last minute. This can happen if the server gets overloaded at this time and thus more likely to crash or take longer to send, forcing you to miss the deadline.
Take care over your style when filling out online application forms. Answers should be formal, and targeted at the skills required and the specific job on offer. The online system will most probably be restrictive, meaning you have no flexibility to choose font size and style, so make sure your individuality and potential comes across through the words you choose, not the way they are presented.
Make sure you are accurate when filling in an online form. Check and take care over your words just as you would when filling out a form by hand - do not trust spell-check, or any similar programmes. Make sure your word processor is set on English (UK) and not English (USA), an easy mistake to make. It is important to ensure that you have kept within the stated word or character limit, as anything you write after the limit may simply get cut off. If possible, get someone to check your form before you send it off, preferably someone known to be precise and good at spelling!
Overall, don't stress about filling out online forms. Be honest, and let your personality shine through as much as possible. Fix your answers around the job being offered and try as best as you can to make a favourable impression on employers.
