Online Applications: The Dos and Don’ts

The internet has changed the way we search and apply for jobs. No longer do we rely on pages and pages of hand written forms or have to rely entirely on the postal service to ensure that our application is received.

Now many businesses, if not the majority, advertise job openings online and enable you to apply directly through their website or a third party website through completing an online application form.

As much as applying online makes application process straightforward it also offers some drawbacks to traditional offline applying. For example the online form will most probably be standardised so there is no room to jazz up your CV as you may do offline. To help you make sure you make the most out of applying online follow these simple do’s and don’ts to make sure your online application gets noticed:

THE DOs

Do have a decent internet connection
Ok this one may seem obvious but it is vital when applying online. Make sure that you have a stable and reliable internet connection. If your connection is likely to break at any point go to an internet cafe or somewhere with a more reliable connection. There is nothing worse than filling out most of an application form and then losing the connection...and all of the applications content with it.

Do create a draft offline
Before you fill in the application view it before hand, download it if you can, or copy and paste all the required fields’ offline. You can then work on an offline copy ensuring that all the information is complete and correct, using spell checkers to ensure spelling and grammar is correct. It is also good practice to keep an offline copy for your records in case you have any technical problems or for some reason your applications is not received.

Do proof read you application
Ensure that you read through you applications answers a number of times. Look out for spelling mistakes, grammar mistakes, and make sure that the answers are clear and easy to read. Additionally ask a friends or family members to read through the application answers for you.

Do have an online presence
In case a prospective employer search for your name online (i.e. through Google or Yahoo) it is beneficial to make sure you have an online presence. Make sure you have a LinkedIn account with all your previous work and education experience. If you have a blog or other professional networking accounts be sure to make sure these are up to date.

Do have a sensible/professional email address
If you don’t have a sensible email address get one. If a possible employer see’s that your email address is mickeymouse@freemail.com they may disregard your information. Use one of the main and trusted mail services (i.e. Gmail, Live) and have a memorable address that includes your name or surname.

Do check your email regularly
Once you have applied make sure you check your email account regularly so you don’t miss any communication from the prospective employers. Also check you junk mail in case any communication has been misplaced in this folder.

THE DONTs

Don’t copy and paste
If you are applying to multiple jobs online you may be tempted to copy and paste the answers you have used in one application into another. It is far better to treat each application as unique; do some research into the business before hand and tailor your answers accordingly. This will result in more inspiring and relevant answers.

Don’t leave blank spaces
It is important to make sure that all fields are complete. Make sure that all contact details are filled in and all answers are answered. Blank spaces in an application form will make it appear as though you have neglected or can’t be bothered to provide the required information.

Don’t go on and on and on
It is generally harder to read online content then offline. Refrain from writing entire essays. Instead provide only essential information and resist the urge to waffle. In this case little is more...if you go on and on and include pointless information recruiters may feel you are full of nonsense.

Don’t start and then procrastinate
Remember internet pages have a tendency to time out if left. This means that, maybe for security or technical reasons, the page is no longer available and you have to refresh to view it again. If you have filled out half of your application and then leave your computer for some time you may have to start all over again.

Don’t forget where you have applied
When applying to multiple jobs online it is sometime hard to remember who you have applied to and when you have done so. Keep a spread sheet to show who you have applied to, when you have applied to them and any other relevant information. This will help you keep track of all online applications you have completed.

Have we forgotten anything? Based on your experience of applying online what advice would you give to job seekers?

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