Written or online application?

Purdy_1

Whilst looking at a number of jobs I have noticed some give you the option of using an online application form or sending one one in that they send out to you in the post.

Which would get noticed/looked at more? Does it really make a difference?

Tori_Bellatrix

I always try and use an online application or a word document that I can download. I find it much easier and neater to type up my applications, change paragraphs around and check for spelling mistakes ..

Purdy_1

I agree it is easier but I am asking from an employers POV. Do they prefer looking at online or written applications. Do they prefer looking at written because they can easily compare 2 side by side or the neatness of online ect.

Tori_Bellatrix

I've never thought about it to be honest - My typed applications have never held me back (I've job hopped alot in the past 2 years). In my eyes if they provide you with the facility to type up / email your application then that's probably what they prefer

Poppy9

I've just done a recruitment exercise in work. We had 38 applicants and some had handwritten, some completed on line and some downloaded and submitted typed form.

The typed forms were so much easier to read and were usually better laid out and more concise. We didn't discriminate against anyone who submitted a written form, indeed we interviewed one, but you do have to wonder if they have the IT skills when we specifically asked in the job description for IT skills.

If you do use the online form cut and paste from word so you can spell check. There are more spelling mistakes from typed forms than handwritten forms. Some were howlers i.e. "I am conscientious and demand high levels of accuracy in my work as you will see from my appilation form":rotfl:

LittleVoice

If you submit your application online it is much easier for the recruiter to check for what they want. Even checking a CV is easier because you can use the search facility for key items (eg the word PowerPoint, KPI or team).

However a decent recruiter should be looking sufficiently closely at every application.

LittleVoice

If you have 550 applications and want someone who can use PowerPoint as an essential, eliminating those who can't be bothered to include it might help!

Poppy9

ts_aly2000 wrote: »

Wonderful approach by recruiters. Use 'Search'.

Are we not breeding a culture of people who not only cannot write, but can't read either?

I communicate in a hand written forum whenever I can. While I may have a CompSci degree, it dissappoints me that so many people today not only cannot write in their own handwriting but they can't spell either.

We're a nation of lazy illiterates and it's actively encouraged.

Trouble is you maybe able to read your own writing but others can't. One of the forms we received was beautifully written, the handwriting was fantastic to look at but we couldn't make out certain words without a great deal of effort. If you do have a volume of application forms it may mean your form doesn't get the attention it deserves.

Your application form should be tailored to the job specification. If it says on the job advert "No CVs required", do not enclose your CV. If the job asks for WP skills, type or submit your form on line. If the job states you need to write legibly hand write the form.

One instance I can think of where they get a very high volume of forms that does require legible handwriting but where you will probably get further by submitting a typed application is the Police. They typically receive 1000s of application forms every recruitment round and I wouldn't be surprised if they do a computer sift first.

Tori_Bellatrix

ts_aly2000 wrote: »

Wonderful approach by recruiters. Use 'Search'.

Are we not breeding a culture of people who not only cannot write, but can't read either?

I communicate in a hand written forum whenever I can. While I may have a CompSci degree, it dissappoints me that so many people today not only cannot write in their own handwriting but they can't spell either.

We're a nation of lazy illiterates and it's actively encouraged.

Forum or Form ...

Poppy9

ts_aly2000 wrote: »

Perhaps they'd be happier buying a copy instead of employing someone. Dirty grotty people with their views on life and smelly friends.

This is clearly what they want;

No this is better:

SeaBreeze

Sometimes employers ask you to reply 'in writing'. I take this to mean in my own handwriting (assume employers want to check if my writing is legible). Do you agree or have I been making mistakes in my applications?
I tend to hand write the cover letter in these circumstances and print off my cv....much easier to apply online!