Applying for a job

Most recruitment processes start with an application form. Indeed, the Safer Recruitment initiative driven by the DCSF and NCSL to promote child protection recommends that governors use application forms, discouraging application by letter and CV.

However, whatever format governors set for the initial application process, your objective as a candidate is the same: to book your ticket for an interview.

Jobs are won (and lost) at interview stage. The paper application process is just the opening shot of your marketing campaign. An application must do enough to give governors sufficient evidence to want to find out more at interview – but not be so cluttered with irrelevant information that they miss your core proposition.

Think of an effective advertising campaign for a product or service. It establishes enough common ground to put you in buying-mood, perhaps it even engages you on an emotional level, but your decision to purchase will be based on more detailed information subsequently.

So with an application you are saying: "This is why you should interview me," not necessarily, "this is why you should employ me".

These web pages provide further ideas about specific aspects of application forms:

1. Completing an application form – key points
2. Five ideas for effective supporting statements
3. Presenting your career history
4. Preparing to make your application: what colleagues say