to think that most application forms are designed for people who have had a regular career since leaving school

[Orlantina]

And not designed for people who are self employed, who have a variety of jobs at the same time, who have had temporary work here and there , who are part of the gig economy and who basically don't fit into the mould of people who have had 1 job, then another one a few years later etc.

Rant over.

Back to the form.

I think it's the opposite really. People who are experienced - well their CVs speak for themselves. Application forms are designed to make inexperienced candidates look better.

People who are experienced - well their CVs speak for themselves

The thing is - the job I am applying for requires an application form. It's a form that asks in chronological order your jobs since school. That's a lot of jobs.

I only put down relevant job history.

What industry is this and what level of job? A chronological application form suggests an entry level position you might be over-qualified for?

I worked for the same company for 22 years after I left school. That could be seen as a lack of ambition or dedication I guess.

Yanbu, but editing is your friend here. You can elongate some jobs and leave others out altogether.

Bastard job application forms can be torture so have an early from me.

A chronological application form suggests an entry level position you might be over-qualified for

No - it's a public sector job - and many of them - especially in education - require such a form - and don't accept CVs.

So glad I'm not in the public sector lol.

Try this link. Might help

www.theguardian.com/careers/careers-blog/public-to-private-sector-perfection-job-applications