Completing a Job Application APPLICATIONS Completing a Job Application

What is a Job Application? A job application is a tool that allows employers to learn about a job applicant’s work experience, skills, and education. Employers use the job application to compare and contrast applicants and decide which one is best for the job. For many employers, a completed job application is the first step in the hiring process. Some employers require job applicants to submit an application and a resume. Others may not require one at all. However, when an application is requested, it’s an important part of the employment process and should be taken seriously.

Job Application Basics People who make hiring decisions often must read several applications in order to fill an open position. To stand apart, your application must be perfect, so follow these basic guidelines: Follow directions. Read through the application completely before filling it out. Estimate how much space is allotted for each answer. Fill it out completely. You may be required to fill out a job application on site, so be prepared to respond to all questions. Be honest. If hired, the information you provide becomes part of your employment record. Giving false information can lead to your dismissal. Be neat. When finished, your application should be clearly written in blue or black ink, and most importantly, free of errors.

Development of a Portfolio The development of a portfolio is a continuous process. A portfolio should be constantly revised and updated throughout your school and work career. As you develop new skills and gain more employment experience, you will need to provide new samples for your portfolio.

APPLICATION QUESTIONS Answers to Common Job Application Questions

Organization/Position How did you learn of the organization / position? Employers want to know how applicants find out about a job so they can better advertise for open positions in the future. To do so, many applications feature a series of check boxes that might include advertisement, walk-in, or other. If an employee, job recruiter, or other contact told you about the position, write down their full name and title.

Convictions? Have you ever been convicted of a violation of law other than minor traffic violations. If yes, please explain. Here, indicate whether or not you have been convicted of a crime (other than minor traffic violations) in civil or military courts. If you have not been convicted, write, “no.” If you have a conviction on your record, write, “yes, see attachment” and supply a typed explanation. Include the nature of the offense, the date of conviction, location where convicted, and disposition (sentence, probation, etc.).

Previously Worked Here? Have you ever applied / previously worked for this organization? If so, include dates of application and employment, departments for which you worked, and supervisor’s name and title.

Position? What position do you desire? Indicate the position for which you are applying. Don’t leave this section blank or write "Any" or "Open". If you do not know the job title, write the department name. If you are applying for more than one job, ask if you should fill out more than one job application. Be ready to supply first and second choices with positions and geographic location.

Why Work for Us? Why are you interested in working for us? To stand out from the rest of the applicant pool, research to find out more about the position, the organization's philosophy, and work environment.

Date Available to Start? When can you start work? It’s common courtesy to let your current employer know two week’s in advance before your last day of work. Here, write “two week’s notice” or a specific date if you know it.

Reason for Leaving a Position? Why did you leave your last employment position? Avoid terms such as illness, quit, personal reasons, fired, or didn’t like my supervisor. Never criticize a former employer. Instead, use positive reasons such as pursuing degree, seeking advancement, relocated, or career change.

Signature Signing the application. Most applications include a short legal notice stating that all information is true and that the organization can investigate any information. If you falsify any information, you can be refused employment or if found later, fired. Read over your information carefully, then sign and date the application.