What to write in the additional comments section of a job application

Job applications do not leave much room for you to express your capabilities or to explain anything about yourself. The forms are meant to capture the essence of who you are and what experiences and education you have.

The additional comments section of the job application is a place for you to explain any gaps in employment history or other potentially negative points in your application. It is also a place where you can write a statement convincing the employer that you are the best person for the job.

If you have a significant employment gap on your job application, use the comments section to describe why. For example, if you were laid off for a while, you could say that your position was eliminated and that you used the time to search for another job. If you had to leave work for health reasons, you can state that as well, but indicate that that problem is managed or behind you and that you are ready to work.

You may have taken a job after you were laid off that has nothing to do with the job for which you are applying.

You might explain that you took a job after being laid off to pay the bills while you continued to search for a position in your field.

If you have jobs in several fields or are trying to switch to a new industry after working in one for several years, you can use the comments section to briefly explain how your past work experience and skills can successfully transfer to the new position. Write that they even give you an advantage over other applicants because you have a broad base of experience.

Use the comments section to detail why you are the best candidate for the position. Avoid using filler words and phrases that provide no specific reasons why an employer should hire you, but that instead sound overconfident and empty.

Focus your comments on your individual experience and set of skills, as well as how they will benefit an employer. Another idea is to list a website if you have one with a portfolio of your work to give the employer an idea of what you are capable of.

List specific skills you have relevant to the job in the comments section. For example, if you can use various software programs and office machinery, write them down in the comments section when applying for a receptionist position. Speaking another language can be helpful in many jobs, and so can typing. Write down what languages you speak at what level and how fast you can type. If you know the accuracy with which you type, mention that too. Soft skills such and verbal and written communication, problem solving, critical thinking and excellent customer service skills can also be included. Also include information on clubs of which you are a member or in which you are an officer, however, do not list religious, cultural or political organisations. Think professional, social service or civic organisations instead, as well as awards you have won on the job.

If you have nothing to say, leave the comments section blank. Avoid filling it in just to fill it in. It is not a required section on the application. The employer does not want to read about why you really, really need this job or how you are an amazing employee.

Keep your tone professional and your words brief if you fill in this section. Silence in this section is better than meaningless phrases.