Tips for Applying

We've compiled a few useful pointers to help you make a successful application

Like most employers, the University of Kent receives a large volume of applications. When shortlisting, panel members are only able to use the information provided in the application form and supporting documents (if accepted) to make their decisions. They'll frequently have over 50 applications to assess, so to help your chances of being shortlisted, the key is PREPARATION

Other things to take into consideration:

• Don't assume we know anything about you (even if you are an internal candidate).
• Make sure you read the information in the advert, job description and person specification carefully.
• Take time to prepare your application, and if a CV is required, make sure it's updated and tailored to the role you're applying for.
• Think about how your skills and experience relate to the job. Address each of the criteria stated in the person specification that will be assessed at the application stage and used for shortlisting. 
  • Provide relevant evidence and include specific evidence or examples to support your statements. Statements that are not evidenced will not be considered as meeting the criteria.
  • If the application form allows a CV and cover letter to be uploaded, try to provide clear examples in your cover letter wherever possible as to how you meet the criteria from the person specification. 
  • For example, if one of the essential criteria is experience of managing people it would be helpful to give examples of work experience where you have had line management responsibility including the size of the team managed. We recommend a maximum of 4 x A4 sides for your cover letter.
• Please don't insert URLs for other web sites in fields on the application form in lieu of requested information as this will not be accepted as evidence of meeting the specific criteria. You may however use URLs in your supporting documentation statement if requested.
• Don’t try to circumvent the application process by sending CV’s or details directly to the department or via email as it will not be considered.
• Explain any gaps in your employment history.
• Always check your spelling before submitting your application.

Once you submit your application, you will not be able to make any changes.

Uploading documents

If the application requires the attachment of a CV and covering letter or other supporting documentation, please include your name in the filename, along with a description of the document 

e.g. Chris Smith Supporting Statement.pdf 

Please only upload those documents that are specifically requested in the job advert.

Providing Referees

When providing details of referees please name people who can be contacted to provide a reference with regards to your suitability for the job.

For professional services and support positions we require:

• References to cover at least the last three years of employment. This should include a manager reference from your current or most recent line manager/employer.
• We also require an employment confirmation reference from your current or most recent employer. This can be combined with the manager reference.
• If the last 3 years of employment have been with the same employer then the references mentioned above will be acceptable. If there has been more than one employer in the last 3 years then further references will be required to cover this period.
• If you have had no previous employment then a manager reference from a work experience placement and/or character reference from an educational establishment (school, college) or from voluntary work will be acceptable. Do not include family members or friends.
• There should not be more than a 30 day gap in reference from different employers unless this is accounted for in the application form or CV.

For academic and research positions, we require:

• An employment confirmation reference from your current or most recent employer.
• Three academic references. One of these references should be from your current and most recent line manager/employer.

To avoid any potential conflicts of interest, interview panel members are not permitted to act as applicant referees. Personal references from friends or family members also cannot be accepted. Please ensure that your choice of referees takes account of this.