Completing the Job Application “Your ticket to the Interview!”

What’s the Point? Even if you have provided a resume and a cover letter…employers also want a record of your information verified and signed by you.

Before Be prepared with all of your info. PRIOR to walking in ex) Prior Employer Information, References, and Dates!! Have your own pen with you (blue or black) and whiteout You may want to have a sample completed application with you to easily transfer information Be prepared for all kinds of applications (long/short/new/old/electronic etc.) Read through ALL instructions/questions before completing it (CAREFUL) Be familiar with the job description/ use key words (the goal is to pass the employers’ filtering systems)

When Completing the Application… Make sure you are dressed to impress! Have a resume handy Ask for 2 copies of the application Write neatly & CORRECTLY Pay attention to the space provided (it may be TINY) Complete ALL columns/boxes Mark the SALARY box as “open” or “negotiable”

When Completing the Application… Write N/A in fields not applicable (nothing should be left blank) TAKE YOUR TIME!! (unless it’s timed) Don’t forget about social work/volunteer work that show your transferrable skills Focus on your Positives!!!

Sensitive Issues…. If you had a bad work experience with a previous job or were asked to leave, be honest about it (EMPLOYERS APPRECIATE HONESTY) Avoid use of language or behavior during this time that could be construed as inappropriate or negative. If there are problem questions about your health, legal status, etc. try to be as positive as possible and leave long explanations for the interview

Typical Job Applications Ask…. Name, Address, Phone Number, Address (remember to set up an appropriate & voic message) S.S. Number (sticky subject  identity theft concerns) Education Employment Information/ Work Experience (paid and volunteer) Duration of past jobs Date of availability References other than your supervisors (at least 3  have this info. ahead of time) Make reference to skills: communication skills, languages learned, technology, and leadership skills

When Finished… PROOF READ and check form thoroughly before submitting Do not fold, bend, or dirty the application Some places may require a preliminary interview upon submission of application (Be prepared) Be confident and submit the application to the person in charge with a smile, good posture, and a “thank you” Remember this person’s name (they may be able to give you feedback during your follow up phone call) Call or after 1 week, inquiring about the hiring decision. Introduce yourself and the position you applied for.

Online Applications (click on graphic  ) HOW WELL you have completed your ONLINE application will be the largest determining factor (it’s difficult to make a thorough first impression through a computer screen)  There are HUNDREDS of applicants for each job opportunity Online applications are used as a tool for employers to assess you before they invest their time to meet you (Can you follow instructions? Are you organized and professional sounding? Do you pay attention to detail?)

Honesty.. If you are cross-questioned on any of the details provided on the job application, you must be in a position to answer confidently and accurately

Don’t forget.... SIGN & DATE the application!!!!