Making successful applications

Once you have found an NHS job you want to apply for, you want to make sure your application does you justice - and that it gives you the best possible chance of getting an interview. That means taking time over crafting your application form, and keeping the following tips in mind.

How good a match are you?

This is what any NHS employer will be looking at essentially, by judging how well your application matches the 'person specification' for the job. The applicants that most closely match the person specification will be those that are shortlisted for interview.

So, to stand the best chance of getting an interview, that is what you need to focus on. How do your skills and experience outlined in your previous work history match the requirements for the post? What about your duties and responsibilities - how do they match what the role requires?

Make this very clear in your application - and never submit the same form twice. Always adapt it to show how you meet the person specification of the specific post you are applying for.

"What do I look for in an application form? Well-presented, clear, concise information - and an interesting personal statement. That's what makes an application stand out for me."
John Bottomley, Recruitment and Staff Benefits Manager, South Tees NHS Foundation Trust

Complete all the parts of the form

Read the instructions very carefully and make sure you fill in all the sections of the application form. The information you give in the 'application for employment' section will be used to decide if you should be shortlisted for interview. The 'personal information' and 'monitoring information' sections will not be used for shortlisting, but will be kept for administrative purposes.

Back it up with good supporting information

The 'supporting information' section is really your opportunity to sell yourself - so make sure you use it to your advantage. You can include any information here that is not already covered elsewhere on the form, which backs up how and why you would be suitable for the job. This is about convincing the recruiter you have the required skills, knowledge and experience - and that they really should be inviting you for interview.

You can include, among other things, more details about:

  • your duties and responsibilities
  • your skills, knowledge or experience relevant to the post
  • apparent gaps in your career profile
  • any voluntary work you have carried out
  • your research experience
  • publications or presentations
  • clinical care or clinical audit.

"An application that has been fully completed always stands out as so often people don't. Make sure you give yourself the best chance of being shortlisted by ensuring that all sections have been filled in."
Lynsey McCabe, Recruitment Manager, North East Ambulance Service

Don't forget, you can find lots of information about the different roles in the NHS on the NHS Careers website - including what skills and attributes are required for each role and some case studies to give you an idea what it might be like to work in a role similar to the one you are applying for. You might find it helpful to refer to the information on NHS Careers when completing your form, to make sure it highlights the right things - and shows very clearly why you are right for the job.