JOB APPLICATION DO’S AND DON’T’S Objective: Understand how to fill out a job application that will get you the interview!

FILLING OUT APPLICATIONS PRETEST Is it ok to leave blank spaces on a job application? Should you use white-out on a job application? Is a necessity to request a specific salary? Does information have to be consistent with your resume? If unsure of an answer, is it ok to be vague? Is it cheating if you proofread with a partner?

FILLING OUT APPLICATIONS PRETEST Is it ok to leave blank spaces on a job application? Answer: No Should you use white-out on a job application? Answer: No Is a necessity to request a specific salary? Answer: No Does information have to be consistent with your resume? Answer: Yes If unsure of an answer, is it ok to be vague? Answer: No Is it cheating if you proofread with a partner? Answer: Of course not!

ARRIVE PREPARED WITH WHAT YOU WILL NEED Resume, social security card (better: memorize your number), driver’s license, etc. Names & addresses of previous employers, as well as starting dates & salary information

ARRIVE PREPARED WITH WHAT YOU WILL NEED Names, addresses & phone number of references. Do not use anyone as a reference until you have their agreement. Black pens (have extras) Pocket Dictionary

READ AND FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY Review the entire application before you begin Be sure to write your answers on the correct lines and in the right spaces

COMPLETE THE APPLICATION THOROUGHLY & NEATLY Print clearly – do not be in a rush Think about your answers before you write them in

COMPLETE THE APPLICATION AS THOROUGHLY & NEATLY AS POSSIBLE Do not write “see resume.” Answer all questions even if the answer is on the resume.

DON’T DON'T leave blank spaces. DON'T be unclear. If the question calls for a specific answer, don't try to dodge it by being vague

DON’T DON'T use correction fluid. If you type your application, use a correctable typewriter or liftoff strips to correct mistakes. Better yet, fill out your application online DON'T write in script.

DO DO make copies of applications, and practice filling one out before you complete the original DO type or neatly print your answers, and then proofread the applications and essays several times for accuracy. Also ask someone else to proofread with you

DO DO make sure that everything that is supposed to be included is enclosed DO fill out your own applications. Type the information yourself to avoid crucial mistakes

DO DO start with the simple applications and then progress to the more complex ones DO describe how you can make a contribution to the companies to which you apply

ONE FINAL THING: If using a computer, be sure to use spell check

To recap, your application should be: Neat Have no errors in grammar or spelling Be printed in black ink, or typed if you are seeking a professional job Filled out completely. Leave no blank spaces. Use N/A (not applicable) if the section does not apply to you Provide complete information like dates, address and telephone numbers

Be Confident Follow directions. Read the entire application before you begin. Pay close attention to what is being asked and how you respond. For example, on “when are you available to begin work”, if you can start right away, write “immediately.” Otherwise, put the date you can start.

Be Positive For example, on “reasons for leaving a job”, use terminology that is not negative: If you were fired or terminated for cause, use “will discuss in interview” (In the interview you can explain the circumstances and reasons, but if you are screened out before the interview, you won’t get the chance to explain) Never use “quit” or “resigned” or “personal.” Instead use, “returned to school,” “seeking better opportunity,” “seeking career advancement,” “relocation,” or “career change.”

Be Truthful Remember it is important to be truthful on your application. The information you provide will become part of your permanent record when hired. False information can be grounds for dismissal. However, do not volunteer information the employer is not seeking.

Be Specific Be specific on the job for which you are applying. Never leave this question blank because an employer will not take the time to determine where you fit in his or her business. If the job is advertised or you are looking for a specific position, enter the job title. If you do not know the job title put the department you are interested in working in.

Be Targeted Target your qualifications to the specific requirements of the job. Previous work experience should be clear and concise. Keep a list of your significant skills to use when filling out an application.

Be Savvy When asked about salary requirements use “open” or “negotiable.” This is a question which can knock you out of being considered – you don’t want to enter a salary that is too high or too low, so be savvy in responding to this one.

Be Careful When Choosing References Before you list someone as a reference be sure you get their permission. There are four different types of references: Employment references are former employers or direct supervisors Professional references are people who worked with you or know you in your work environment Academic references are teachers and other who can talk about your school accomplishments Personal references are people who know you only socially

POST TEST What items would you bring with you when filling out a job application? Can you use white-out on a job application? Is it wise to have some one other than yourself look over an application? Should you make a copy of applications that you fill out? Is it common to skip filling out an application and say - see attached resume?

Assignment I will be handing out an application for you to practice with – Please use these tips to fill it out carefully. This application will be used as model for when you fill out a resume for a future job.