You may not know this, but increasingly,
many Kenyan companies use application forms as an initial screening device for
applicants. This saves the HR recruiters’ time, as they can sue software to
scan the application form and CV for specific keywords. Studies show that employers
use the information you fill out in the online application form to eliminate as
much as 90 percent of the applicants.
The general nature of many questions on applications and the lack of space
for responses make it difficult for an applicant to show his or her relevant
skills and knowledge.
The following tips offer ways of providing more complete information about
your skills and knowledge given the limited space and words that many online
forms will allow.
1. Learn about the actual job and tailor your responses.
First, learn as much as you can about the actual tasks of the job for which you
are applying. Examine the specific job task information carefully and list your
work experience, training or education that relates to specific tasks.
2. Write a brief cover letter. A cover letter provides an
opportunity for you to present the job-related skills that go beyond those
mentioned on an application form. This letter should be short (a few
paragraphs)