Candidate Hints and Tips - Applications and Interviews

Applications

Once you have found a position you wish to apply for you will need to complete an application form. You need to ensure that your application provides you with the best possible chance of being shortlisted for interview through demonstrating you have the necessary skills, knowledge and experience for the role. Below we have provided our top tips for completing the application form:

Take time over your application

• Don’t rush; make sure you give yourself enough time to complete the application to a high standard and to check what you have written

Read the job description and person specification

• The job description and person specification will be used to shortlist for the position you are applying for, applicants who most closely match the person specification will be the ones who are shortlisted for interview

Provide clear examples

• You need to demonstrate that you have the knowledge, skills and experience required for the role and the best way to so this is to provide clear examples as part of your supporting information

Never submit the same application twice

• Although NHS Jobs lets you save information you have previously submitted you should always adapt your application to show how you meet the person specification of the particular post you are applying for

Complete all parts of the form

• Read the instructions carefully and make sure that you complete all the sections of the application form

Provide relevant supporting information

• The supporting information section id your opportunity to provide additional information to support your application. Use this section to demonstrate why you would be suitable for the post and should be invited for interview.

Interview Tips

Congratulations, you have been invited to interview

Now to ensure you have the best chance of success you need to make sure you are as prepared as possible. Here are some tips:

Prepare for the interview

• It may sound obvious but thorough preparation will ensure you are ready for the interview:
• Review the person specification and job description
• Review your application
• Research the organisation
• Prepare examples that demonstrate your experience skills based on the person specification
• Prepare some questions for the panel

First impressions

• First impressions are important and there are a couple of simple steps you can take to support a good first impression
• Arrive in plenty of time; have a plan B route in case of delays
• Notify the appropriate person as soon as possible if you are going to be late
• Dress appropriately, your outfit choice should be appropriate for the role you are applying for but also comfortable

During the interview

• There are a number of things you can do during the interview to increase your chance of success:
• Make eye contact to engage with the panel
• Smile!
• Be clear and concise, structure your answers with 3 or 4 main points of examples from your own
• Sell yourself; use “I” rather than “we” and be clear about your personal contribution
• Use positive body language

Remember, the most important part of an interview is to sell yourself, and to show why you are right for the job. But try to show the 'real you' if you can. Whether you get the job will be as much down to your personality and enthusiasm as it will to your skills and experience, and the answers you give.

Good luck!