Download - AV Application Guide
Nottingham Apprenticeship Hub
Your guide to a successful application
November 2012
This guide has been published on behalf of the Nottingham City’s
Apprenticeship Hub. With special thanks to Bedfordshire and
Hertfordshire Provider Network and Hertfordshire County Council
for the inclusion of text which has been taken from ‘How to write a
Winning Apprentice Application.’ (September 2012)
First Published November 2012
National Help Desk 0247 682 6482 2
1. A quick guide to applying Page 4
2. Introduction Page 6
3. What is an apprenticeship? Page 6
4. The registration process Page 7
- Your email address
- Registering online
5. Searching for an apprenticeship Page 9
- Live Vacancy Feed
- National Apprenticeship Website
6. How to apply Page 13
- My Profile
- Your strengths
- The application
- Key words and phrases
7. Preparing for interview Page 22
- Telephone interview
- Attend an Interview
8. After the interview Page 26
9. Additional support Page 27
- Drop-in centres
- Useful links
Your Guide to a Successful Application
ContentsContentsContentsContents
www.apprenticeships.org.uk 3
Your Guide to a Successful Application
Need help completing your
application?
Then choose one or more of these
3 options 3 options 3 options 3 options
1. Follow this guide
2. Attend a Nottingham Drop-in Centre (see page 27)
3. Use the Online Application Advice page (see page 32)
1. A quick guide to applying
1a. Additional Support1a. Additional Support1a. Additional Support1a. Additional Support
Create a professional email address
seeseeseesee page 7page 7page 7page 7
visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk
seeseeseesee page 8page 8page 8page 8
select Login to Apprenticeship Vacancies
seeseeseesee page 8page 8page 8page 8
select register and complete online form
seeseeseesee page 9page 9page 9page 9
1b. Registration1b. Registration1b. Registration1b. Registration
National Help Desk 0247 682 6482 4
Your Guide to a Successful Application
www.apprenticeships.org.uk 5
1c. Search and Apply1c. Search and Apply1c. Search and Apply1c. Search and Apply
Select the vacancy you are interested in
seeseeseesee page 14page 14page 14page 14
Complete the online application form highlighting your skills and strengths
seeseeseesee page 15page 15page 15page 15
Submit the form seeseeseesee
page 20page 20page 20page 20
There are 2 ways to
search for
Apprenticeship Apprenticeship Apprenticeship Apprenticeship VacanciesVacanciesVacanciesVacancies
Nottingham’s
Live Vacancy FeedLive Vacancy FeedLive Vacancy FeedLive Vacancy Feed (see page 10)
National Website
www.apprenticeships.org.ukwww.apprenticeships.org.ukwww.apprenticeships.org.ukwww.apprenticeships.org.uk
(see page 12 )
Make sure you prepare for the interview
seeseeseesee page 23page 23page 23page 23
Dress appropriately and act accordingly
seeseeseesee page 24/25page 24/25page 24/25page 24/25
1d. The Interview1d. The Interview1d. The Interview1d. The Interview
This guide is for anyone living in Nottingham who is
interested in becoming an apprentice.
Our step-by-step guide is full of useful information and top tips to help you achieve your Apprenticeship aims,
whilst providing you with the skills to:
• register on the National Apprenticeship Website • search for apprenticeship opportunities
• identify your strengths
• complete an application form • prepare for the interview
• evaluate your performance
In addition, if you feel you need some extra support why not visit one the city’s apprenticeship drop-in
centres, which are being delivered across the city.
An Apprenticeship gives you hands on experience in
the work place and enables to earn while you learn. Key benefits of being an apprentice include:
• earning a salary
• getting paid holidays • receiving training
• gaining qualifications • learning job-specific skills
If you would like to learn more about Apprenticeships
then visit the National Apprenticeship Website.
Your Guide to a Successful Application
3. What is an Apprenticeship?
National Help Desk 0247 682 6482 6
2. Introduction
Before you can register on the National Apprenticeship
website you will need an appropriate email address.
The email address you choose should be professional as employers may use it to contact you. Therefore, try
to avoid nicknames or inappropriate names.
[email protected] ����
����
Your Guide to a Successful Application
Google Mail
Microsoft Live
Yahoo Mail
Don’t worry, it’s free, you just need to have
access to the internet.
www.apprenticeships.org.uk 7
Top Tip No. 1
Are you strugg
ling to find an e
address that
hasn’t been ta
ken?
Then try using
your name follow
ed
by your year of
birth.
Keep your email address and
password safe s
o you don't for
get
them.
If you do not have an email address or you wish to
change it then you might want to register with one of the email providers below:
4a. Your email address
4. The registration process
Registering on the National Apprenticeship website is
easy and free of charge. To start the process visit:
www.apprenticeships.org.uk
1. You should now be on
a web page that looks similar to that
opposite.
2. To register you need to select
Login to Apprenticeship vacancies
3. Next, you need to
select Register Now
National Help Desk 0247 682 6482 8
Your Guide to a Successful Application
4b. Registering online
5. Complete the web form
with your personal details and select Register
You will need to create a
username and password. Make sure you keep these
details safe, as you will need them every time you log on to
the Apprenticeship website.
When you have completed and registered your details
you will receive an email from
the Apprenticeship service.
www.apprenticeships.org.uk 9
Your Guide to a Successful Application
Top Tip No.2
Your password must
contain:
• a lower case lette
r
• a capital letter
• a special characte
r
• a number
You need to open this email and click on the link to
activate your new account. Using the username and password you created, log on to the Apprenticeship
vacancies website.
You can now start to search for vacancies on the
Apprenticeship website
LIVE VACANCY FEED
Your Guide to a Successful Application
5. Searching for an Apprenticeship
National Help Desk 0247 682 6482 10
In Nottingham, there are two ways to search for an
Apprenticeship vacancy. You can use the city’s unique Live Vacancy Feed or using the search facility on the
National Apprenticeship Website.
5a. Live Vacancy Feed
The quick way to search for Apprenticeship vacancies
in Nottingham is to use the Live Vacancy Feed. To view current vacancies click on the button below or
visit www.nottinghamcity.gov.uk/apprenticeshiphub and click on the link.
Once opened, the Live Vacancy Feed will look similar
to the page below, with Apprenticeship vacancies on the left and a search facility to the right.
www.apprenticeships.org.uk 11
Your Guide to a Successful Application
Type keywords in the text box
Sort by Date posted or Job Title
Search by category
Top Tip No. 3 To make sure that you
are viewing the latest
vacancy information
click on
at the top of the page.
If the last post is more
than a day old click on
your refresh button.
When you find a vacancy that you
are interested in, just click on the job title.
This will take you to the National
Apprenticeship website where you will receive more information about
the vacancy and be able to apply.
5b. National Apprenticeship website
Make sure you are logged on to:
www.apprenticeships.org.uk
The first page that appears is
called ‘My Home’. This page is personal to you. From here you can access messages
and manage all of your Apprenticeship applications. To start searching for vacancies click Go in the top right
box called ‘Search for Vacancies’.
The page displays all the Apprenticeship vacancies for
Nottingham. To narrow down your search you can:
Your Guide to a Successful Application
National Help Desk 0247 682 6482 12
Once you have selected
your options click Search
There are a range of options available to help you narrow down your search
www.apprenticeships.org.uk
Top Tip No.4
If you save your f
avourite
searches you can
receive
alerts by email, text
and
on your message b
oard.
To find out more just
click ‘My Alerts’ on your
profile page.
13
Your Guide to a Successful Application
Selections are based upon the option that has
been chosen from above
Occupation Type/Job Role: Gives the option to
search by a particular sector and job role
Employer: Search by employer, just type the
employer/company name in the box provided
Keyword: Search by any other word/words
Learning Provider: Search by training provider or
college by typing their details in box provided
Vacancy Reference Number: If you know the
vacancy number, just type it in the box
By Location:
By Postcode: Nationally:
Search by vacancies that have been posted during
the last day, last week or last month
Select preferred maximum and minimum wage
Choose your preferred level of Apprenticeship
Select a county
Enter a postcode and distance Search all UK Apprenticeships
If your search returns
no vacancies then try to widen your search by
changing some of your options.
There are a range of options available to help you narrow down your search
Your Guide to a Successful Application
National Help Desk 0247 682 6482 14
Having clicked on search
you will be given a list of current vacancies. To see
more details about any of the vacancies, just click
on the preferred job title.
6a. My Profile
Before you apply for a vacancy
you need to make sure your profile is complete and up-to-
date.
Click on ‘My Profile’ and using the drop down menus select your
preferred job sector and job role.
Now check that your personal details and contact details are complete and accurate. When finished, click
Update on the bottom right corner of the form.
6. How to apply Top Tip No.5 Have you found a vacancy but
not got the time to complete it? Then save it for later!
At the bottom of each advert there is an option to save. Next time you login just go to ‘My Saved Vacancies’ on your profile page.
6b. Your Strengths
Before you complete the application form you will need
to consider your strengths.
If you have any qualifications, certificates and a CV get them out, as they will help you to remember what
you have already achieved.
Your Guide to a Successful Application
www.apprenticeships.org.uk 15
Passportfolio is free website
which has lots of resources to help you prepare your application.
There are quizzes to help you think about your strengths, skills and prepare for an interview, as well as
tips on writing a personal statement for your application.
There is also a CV builder and action plan plus information and videos about jobs and careers. Set up
an account today by going to www.passportfolio.com and selecting Register for Free!
Over 20 people could be applying for the same vacancy
as you but only 5 may be asked to attend an interview. So you need to make sure your application stands out.
Employers will expect your application to:
• demonstrate your skills and experience
• show enthusiasm for the company and job role
• have good spelling, grammar and Punctuation
• be submitted on time
IMPORTANT
Whenever you complete a new
application you need to make sure that it’s relevant to the job that you
are applying for.
Top Tip No.6
To avoid mistakes, ask
friends or family to read
through your applic
ation
to check your spelling,
grammar and punctuation
before you submit it.
6c. The Application
For extra help:
Click on the application
form
Ring the National Help Desk
0247 682 6482
Visit a local drop-in centre (see page 25)
National Help Desk 0247 682 6482 16
1. When you find
a vacancy that you wish to
apply for, just scroll down to
the bottom of the advert and select Apply
24/03/1992
Joe
Bloggs
Christopher
0115 844 4444
14 Loxley Street
Bulwell Nottingham NG12 3PO
07934 333 333
2. Your personal details
are completed automatically.
If there is an error
then you need to update your details
in ‘My Profile’
Your Guide to a Successful Application
The application form for apprenticeship vacancies
needs to be completed online, To get started, you can follow our simple step-by-step guide below.
Top Tip No.7 You can complete most of the
application form at any time.
Just click on Application Form,
complete the form and save.
Then when you find a vacancy
and click apply, you will only
need to complete 2 Additional
Questions that have been
added.
Click Add employer for
additional work experience.
Your Guide to a Successful Application
www.apprenticeships.org.uk 17
3. Add the name of the school you attended and the
town/city. A drop down menu should appear. From the menu select your school. Finally, add the dates
that you attend the school.
5. Add details of all
work experience you have gained, paid or
voluntary.
For Type of Work, provide details of
your job roles and responsibilities held.
This is a good time to save your work, scroll
down to the bottom of the form and select
Save
4. Complete the form as
requested with the relevant details.
To add additional qualifications click on Add Subject
Your Guide to a Successful Application
Good time to Save
National Help Desk 0247 682 6482 18
6. About You - This is where you need to sell yourself
and explain why you are the best person for the job. Think carefully about how you are going to answer
these questions because this is where the employer will start to create an opinion of you.
Good time to Save
You can also check your spelling by clicking
on the spell checker icon
Think about all the skills you have
gained either from school, home, clubs or work experience. Look at the advert and see
if any of your skills match the requirements. You might want to use some of the key words from page 19.
Suggest a skill that you think you
can gain from an apprenticeship such as, improving your communication, developing a
specific skill or improving your knowledge. Do not list too many skills to develop as this may go against you.
Good time to Save
Your Guide to a Successful Application
www.apprenticeships.org.uk 19
Text box too small?
Then make it bigger, just click on the grey
corner and drag out.
Top Tip No.8 You could write your personal
statements in a text editor
such as Microsoft Word.
That way, you can easily check
what you’ve written and just
copy and paste the text into
the application form. Did you know that you
can use 4000 characters in each box, that’s about
600 words!
The employer wants to give you
every opportunity to sell yourself, so if you need extra support don't
be afraid to ask. If you don't need support, never leave an empty box, instead write Not Applicable.
To try and break the ice, some
interviewers may ask questions about your interests. Think about whether any of your
interests might be useful to the job.
e.g. if you compete in a team sport then it is likely you understand the value of team work.
Good time to Save
7. Additional questions relate
to the post and are written by the employer.
Explain why you want to work for the company and
what experience you can bring. Always give examples, where possible.
Good time to Save
Your Guide to a Successful Application
National Help Desk 0247 682 6482 20
10. One last chance to review your
application before sending it. If you have access to a printer
then you might want to print a copy to remind you what you
wrote, should you get an interview.
Finally, select
8. This is for monitoring
purposes only and will not be used as part of
the selection process. If you prefer you have
the option not to say.
9. Once you have completed the form click on Save
and if you are ready to submit your application, click
Top Tip No. 9 Change your application so it meets the criteria of each job that you apply for.
The employer will recognise this and value your effort.
www.apprenticeships.org.uk 21
Your Guide to a Successful Application
Key PhrasesKey PhrasesKey PhrasesKey Phrases To describe your strengths you might want to start
your sentence with:
Key Words Key Words Key Words Key Words
Able
Accurate
Adaptable
Alert
Ambitious
Analytical
Articulate
Assertive
Bright
Capable
Calm
Confident
Committed
Common Sense
Competent
Computer literate
Consistent
Cooperative
Creative
Decisive
Dedicated
Dependable
Desire to succeed
Determined
Diplomatic
Diverse
Drive
Dynamic
Educated
Effective
Efficient
Energetic
Enthusiastic
Fast learner
Flexible
Focused
Friendly
Good communicator
Hard working
Helpful
Honest
Imaginative
Inter personal skills
Independent
Innovative
Intelligent
Intuitive
Keen
Knowledgeable
Leader
Like a challenge
Loyal
Mature
Methodical
Motivated
Objective
Organised
Patient
Perspective
Persistent
Polite
Positive
Practical
Pro active
Qualified
Punctual
Rational
Reliable
Resourceful
Respectful
Responsible
Supportive
Tactful
Team player
Thorough
Trustworthy
Versatile
Willing
Below is a list of key words that you might want to use
to describe some of your personal strengths.
I am able to...
I am competent in…
I have experience of...
I am an excellent...
I am familiar with...
I am qualified in…
I am skilled at…
I can demonstrate that...
Your Guide to a Successful Application
National Help Desk 0247 682 6482
7. Preparing for interview
Having submitted your application there is a really good
chance that you may be interviewed. This could be a telephone interview, attending an interview or both.
The key to either is planning.
Telephone interviews are usually used
to help the employer screen potential applicants.
Therefore, how you respond is likely
to determine whether you progress to actually attending an interview.
Since you do not know when or where you will be if
called, you need to ensure that you are fully prepared.
Think about what questions you might be asked and how
you would respond to them.
If it is an inconvenient time
when you are called, be polite and let the interviewer know
by responding:
"I'm so sorry I'm not able to talk with you right now.
Is there a time I can call you back?”
7a. Telephone interview
22
Top Tip No.10
If you have an a
nswer phone,
make sure you record an
appropriate message.
Also, if you get
a call from a
number you don’t kno
w, answer
the phone giving y
our full name.
Avoid phrases like, “Ello, wot
yer want?”
www.apprenticeships.org.uk 23
Your Guide to a Successful Application
Attending an interview is the perfect opportunity to
demonstrate your personal skills, talk about your experiences and show your enthusiasm for the role.
By following our guide below you will be able to give
yourself a good chance of being offered the position.
7b. Attending an interview
Prior to the interview
Preparation is key to a good interview and by spending a bit of time planning
you will feel less stressed on the day.
• Refresh your memory - print the job description, application form and CV to take to the interview. If
you have a skills diagnostic, take that too.
• Research the organisation - go online and read about the company and their aims
• Prepare answers - think about what questions you may be asked and how you would respond to them
e.g. why you want the job, what skills you can bring
• Prepare questions - to demonstrate your interest
think of at least one question to ask the interviewer about the organisation
• Plan your journey - you should plan to arrive at least 10 minutes early, so check bus timetables,
parking, walking distance etc
• Appearance - Make sure you dress appropriately
and plan in advance what you are going to wear. (see page 22)
Your Guide to a Successful Application
National Help Desk 0247 682 6482 24
Appearance
A judgement about your appearance and
you will be made before you even utter a word. Therefore, if you look presentable
it will give a good first impression and probably increase your confidence too.
Do’s
• Have a haircut prior to the interview
• Dress smartly, wearing cleaned and ironed clothing
• Polish shoes
• Wear minimal jewellery and piercings
• If you plan to wear makeup or nail varnish keep it
minimal and simple
• Ensure good personal hygiene including teeth
and nails
• Wear subtle deodorants/aftershave/perfume
• Hide Tattoos with clothing, if possible
Don’t’s
• No trainers
• No chewing gum
• No caps or hats
• No casual clothing
this includes: shorts,
t-shirts, jeans, hoodies,
half-mast ties or untucked shirts
Bonus Tip For further advice, watch the video on Sortitonline or visit one of the drop-in centres that are based in Nottingham providing FREE apprenticeship support (see page 25 for further details)
At the Interview It’s natural to be feeling nervous so
take a few deep breaths before entering the room. If the employer is a good
interviewer they will try to make you feel more at ease.
Do’s
• Report to the reception giving your name and details
of the interviewer(s)
• Switch off your mobile phone
• Shake hands firmly
• Smile and give good eye contact
• Speak clearly, using good grammar
• Sit up straight and look interested
• Be enthusiastic and mature
• Give examples of your strengths but be honest
• Demonstrate your knowledge of the business
• Ask questions you prepared beforehand
• Ask when they will let you know the outcome
• Thank the interviewer for their time
Don’t’s
• Avoid yawning, crossing arms, fidgeting, clock
watching, tapping etc.
• Avoid swearing or use of slang language
www.apprenticeships.org.uk 25
Your Guide to a Successful Application
Your Guide to a Successful Application
National Help Desk 0247 682 6482 26
8. 8. 8. 8. After the interview
Once the interview is finished, you probably just want
to run away and not think about the interview again, unless they contact you to offer you the job.
However, now is a good time to reflect on what went
well and what you could do better. Make some brief notes so you know what to improve next time.
Offered the position
Fantastic, you’ve been offered the position. Before you
except you might just want to consider:
• How do you feel about working for the company • Does the location cause a problem e.g. travel,
parking etc
• Is the wage what you expected • Are the benefits what you expected
If you are happy with the terms and conditions, accept
the offer and they will explain the next step.
Not offered the position
If you are not offered the position on this occasion don’t despair. Give the company a ring and ask for
some feedback to find out what you can improve.
You might also want to consider attending one of the Apprenticeship drop-in centres in Nottingham offering
FREE application and interview advice (see page 25).
www.apprenticeships.org.uk 27
Your Guide to a Successful Application
9. 9. 9. 9. Additional Support
For further information and additional support you can
attend any of the FREE Apprenticeship drop-in centres that are offered in Nottingham. See details below:
We provide information advice and guidance sessions
on most week days. Sessions last 1 hour and include: updating CVs, career choices and barriers to learning.
Parents/carers are welcome to attend to sessions.
For apprentices there is a learner support manager who provides continuous support both in the work
placement and at Access Training.
Age:
Days Delivered:
Times:
Where:
How to apply:
Web address:
16-18
Monday - Friday
Ring for details
Cawley house
96, Cliff Road Nottingham. NG1 1GW
Call 0115 958 7257 and speak to
Karen Beeby or Emma Brynes
www.atem.co.uk
9a. Drop-in Centres
Your Guide to a Successful Application
National Help Desk 0247 682 6482 28
Age:
Days Delivered:
Times:
Where:
How to apply:
Web address:
16-18
Monday - Friday
9.30 start
Clinton House
2-4 Clinton Terrace Derby Road
Nottingham. NG7 1LY
Call 0115 9599 544 or request call back from our webpage
www.ctem.co.uk/ignite
Ignite - supporting you to find an Apprenticeship.
We provide training and support to make sure you are
selling yourself to employers. We can support you to:
• build an Apprenticeship profile • create a CV
• write an application form • improve interview techniques
Whilst you are with us we will also invite you to attend
any selection days and interview days that we host for employers who are recruiting in your chosen sector.
www.apprenticeships.org.uk 29
Your Guide to a Successful Application
Age:
Days Delivered:
Times:
Where:
How to apply:
Web address:
16+
Ring for details
Ring for details
Three City Sites:
Arnot Hill - Arnold Beeston Centre—Chilwell
Maid Marion Way - Nottingham
Call 0115 945 7293 or email [email protected]
www.snc.ac.uk
We offer a work club for anyone needing help applying
for Apprenticeships or jobs. This includes:
• creating CV’s • setting up email accounts
• general job searching advice • support completing applications
• general assistance
We also provide a range of training courses to help improve your skills before starting an Apprenticeship.
For further information visit one of our assessment centres or call Kim Gunn on 0115 945 7293.
Your Guide to a Successful Application
National Help Desk 0247 682 6482 30
Age:
Days Delivered:
Times:
Where:
Contact us:
Web address:
16 - 18
Monday - Friday
10am - 4pm
57 Maid Marian Way
Nottingham NG1 6GE
Call 0115 960 1597 or email
www.sortitonline.com
If you are aged 16-18, not in education, training or
employment, then our Careers Advisers are able to support you and provide advice on Apprenticeships.
We can also support you to:
• develop your CV
• search for courses and Apprenticeships • provide guidance on completing application forms
• improve your interview techniques
For further information contact us by telephone or email using the details below.
Your Guide to a Successful Application
www.apprenticeships.org.uk 31
Age:
Days Delivered:
Times:
Where:
Contact us:
Web address:
16+
Ring for details
Ring for details
Various sites across Nottingham
Call 0115 9 100 100 or email your
query to [email protected]
www.ncn.ac.uk
We provide one-to-one support and advice on applying
for an Apprenticeship.
We will support you to:
• improve your work ready skills • search for Apprenticeship vacancies
• complete online applications • develop good interview techniques
For further information please contact NCN’s contact
centre
9b. Useful links
Your Guide to a Successful Application
Apprenticeships Information
www.apprenticeships.org.uk
www.nottinghamcity.gov.uk/apprenticeshiphub
Apprenticeship Vacancies
www.apprenticeships.org.uk
www.futuresaa.co.uk
www.ncn.ac.uk/vacancies
www.nottinghamcity.gov.uk/jobs
Information, Advice and Guidance
www.direct.gov.uk/nationalcareersservice
www.careersbox.co.uk
www.sortitonline.co.uk
Online Application Advice
www.apprenticeships.org.uk/avtm/Candidate.aspx
Online CV Builders and Tools
www.passportfolio.com
National Help Desk 0247 682 6482 32
www.apprenticeships.org.uk 33
‘Your Guide to a Successful Application’ was written and
produced by Nottingham City Council on behalf of the
Nottingham Apprenticeship Hub
www.nottinghamcity.gov.uk/apprenticeshiphub
First Published November 2012