Jobs on the line

Although you can look at and print a PDF file, you will not be able to fill it in using your computer. You need to print the form, complete it by hand, then post it using conventional mail.

DOC files are opened using Microsoft Word. You need a version that's the same or newer than the download. You can then fill it in using Word and may be able to send it back to the employer as an email attachment.

Email applications

Employers who ask for applications by email are expecting a CV and covering letter. They usually make it clear whether this should be sent as an attachment or as plain text within the body of an email. If you're not sure, check with them. Recent problems with viruses in mail attachments have made companies wary. Many automatically delete unsolicited mail with attachments without looking at it. If they accept attachments, you need to send in a format that's compatible with their software.

Remember your mail reader may not be the same as theirs so the simpler you keep things the more likely it is to look good. Avoid using email formatting tools. Assume the recipient can only cope with basic text.

• Compose your CV in a word processing programme, save as plain text, then copy and paste it into an email. Check appearance and spacing, edit as necessary.
• Always complete the subject line. Make it clear and concise, the name of the job you are applying for and its reference number works well.
• Start with a career summary or employment objective, put contact details at the end. Your name and email address appear at the top of a message automatically.
• You can highlight text by using characters such as * = ~ ^ + < > but use these sparingly.
• See what your CV looks like by opening it in your Outbox or sending it to yourself.