The Application How to do it professionally and correctly

How Important Is It?  Many times we think it is something to get through quickly-Wrong!  Employers consider it carefully  Use it to weed out candidates  Use it to select interviewees  Do not underestimate the importance of an application

Differences in Applications  Some are paper-based, some are electronic  Make sure you follow the instructions so you are not left out of a search  Some applications are long and test your endurance  Some are relatively simple and compliment your resume

Get the Application Ahead of Time  If possible do not fill out the application in the employer’s office because you need to practice fitting your answers in the spaces provided  Also you need time to think about your answers  Employers judge applications on neatness, completeness, accuracy and quality of answers

Tips in Completing the Application  Follow directions  Make answers neat and legible  Use correct lines and spaces for answers  Answer all questions  Use correct spelling, grammar, and punctuation  Include second telephone number of a person who will take messages  Make sure information is accurate  Be honest  Date and sign  Copy the application and use it as a draft

Examples of Application Sections  Personal Information: Page 173  Last name is listed first-do not make a mistake as soon as you start  If it calls for both a current and permanent address and yours is the same you should repeat your current  List a second telephone where you can get your messages  Make sure your is legible-this is a common way of avoiding phone tag

Examples of Application Sections  Position Objective: Page 173  Be sure to list a specific position or position number-employers are not impressed with candidates who list “anything”  Salary-Use “negotiable” because you do not want to risk eliminating yourself with a high or low figure. If the position lists a definite salary in the advertisement then list it  If you can start work right away list “Immediately” when asked. If you are employed note you will need a two week notice

More Application Section Examples  Education: Page 174  If you attended more than one high school and there is only one space list the most recent and indicate the year you received your diploma  List your GPA only if it is requested or if it is high (above 3.0)  If you attended more than one college list the most recent first and work back to the first one you attended. If necessary provide an attachment if there is not enough room  If space provides, list examples of activities (research, courses, honors, foreign language, etc.) that relate to the job

More Application Sections  Employment History: Page 175  If you have space, use action verbs and key words to describe your experiences  Be brief when describing why you left a job-”returned to school”, “changed careers”, “employment ended”, “took position with more responsibility”  Do not list negative terms like “quit”, “personal conflict”, “late for work”, “fired”  If you were fired be brief and as positive as possible. Leave the explanation for the interview. Be professional and take responsibility and explain what you learned from the experience. Explain how you may now handle it differently. Make sure you have a solid reference.

Being Terminated  When filling out job applications, don't be negative, but, do be honest and don't lie, because it will come back to haunt you. You can use language like "job ended" or "terminated" if you need to state why you are no longer working at the job. If you are specifically asked if you were fired, you need to answer yes. Lying on a job application is grounds for dismissal at any time in the future and could cost you future unemployment benefits.

More Application Sections  References: Page 176  The most important are the ones from former employers  Some applications will not want former employers-that is why it is so important to read  Talk to your references in advance  Request to Contact Your Current Employer:  Answer yes only if your employer is aware of your job search

Application Section  Background Check:  You may be asked if you are legally available to work in the US  You may be asked if you have a criminal history that includes a felony or misdemeanor. Be truthful and tell them you will discuss in the interview. Take responsibility and tell what you have learned  Make sure you sign and date the application

Tips if You Do Have to Complete the Application On-Site  Bring your completed sample  2 or 3 black pens  Social Security card, driver license, proof of citizenship, grade transcripts, etc.  Your resume  A pocket dictionary and a calculator  Make sure you follow all directions  Answer all questions and make sure they are well- phrased  Make sure there are no errors  Submit it with a resume and cover letter if possible  Sign and date

Good Luck  Don’t Forget-The application is NOT to be overlooked.  It is as important as your resume and cover letter.  Make sure it is neat, professional and error free.