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Training Contract Application - 5 Common Mistakes To Avoid
Too many spelling or grammar problems
This is the undisputed cardinal sin of written submissions.
Nearly all spelling and grammar errors are picked up by word processors,
and with some good proofreading you can eliminate the rest of the errors. Apart from giving them the impression that
you're not one for close attention to details, it also conveys a lack of
professionalism to your prospective
employers.
If you are also looking for a well-written and presented applications,
then there is no room for mistakes like these.
Regurgitating, or cutting and pasting
information
There are plenty of good examples of
training contract applications out there, but there
can be no substitute to one that you write by yourself. Other than spelling and grammar errors, there
is probably nothing more irritating for reviewer than for them to spot
instances of copy and pasting from other sources.
Incorrect information and mistaken names can be a great source of
embarrassment during the review process. In addition, having the reviewers spot something that is copied directly
from another source gives very little credit to the rest of your work.
Inappropriate use of language
As with other types of formal writing, it is not considered good
practice to include slang or colloquial language with your application. Write with a clear and direct purpose to give
your writing added readability.
When it comes to questions that require you to provide an opinion, take
one side of the argument, but remain balanced in your views. Avoid making your arguments and points too
long, or you'll struggle to retain coherence and consistency.
Going over the top with your words
For many reviewers, making your writing sound too classy can often bring
about the opposite effect. The main
purpose of your application is to address the questions that the reviewers have
posed, so don't make their job more difficult by making the language ambiguous
or convoluted.
Try and ensure that the style and tone of your writing is assured and
precise, and it will give off the right impression to the reviewers.
Dodging the bullet or incomplete answers
Most people take the view that it is better to present only areas that
they are strongest in, while leaving out others in the hope that they are not
seen to be as important. Someone who is
looking to avoid or leave out their weakness doesn't display qualities that
reviewers would associate with self-evaluation and improvement. In addition, being open and honest about your
own abilities and skills, gives more credibility to everything else in your
application.
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