1. How to Complete Job Applications

2. How to Complete Job Applications
Introductions
Tell us who you are….
What line of work are you looking for?

3. Universal Parts of Job Applications
Personal Information
Name, address, citizenship

4. Universal Parts of Job Applications
Work History
Where you have worked before, what your job skills are

5. Universal Parts of Job Applications
Education
All education should be listed, including one time workshops and technical schools, even if not completed

6. Universal Parts of Job Applications
Criminal History Question

7. Universal Parts of Job Applications
Depending on the field, may include specific questions
availability (retail)
References (professional)
Licensing information (medical or casino)

8. Universal Parts of Job Applications
Signature section
Typically includes statement and signature

9. Additional Parts of the Application Process
May include personality tests
May include specific demographic information about race, ethnicity, etc.
May include consent and release for drug testing

10. Online Applications Generally based on paper applications
Complete all areas, leave no blanks
Put in N/A for not applicable

11. Tips for Completing Job Applications
Be honest in your answers
Come prepared – bring ball point pens (blue or black), and your “cheat sheet”
Be neat and legible
Apply for a specific position, even if its not currently open
Leave no blanks – write N/A for “not applicable”
Use complete sentences

12. Tips for Completing Job Applications
Explain lengthy gaps in work history
Sign and date the application
Be sure that the application gets back to the right person/department
Proof read your work before turning it in
Bring your important documents – SS card, drivers license, professional licenses
If you have additional resume and references, hand in, even if it is a repeat of information provided on application

13. How do applications get into the “no” pile?
Applicant doesn’t follow instructions
Misspelled words
Crossed out writing or can’t be read
Wrinkled or messy application form
Incomplete or blank information
Use of words such as quit or fired
Application not signed
Salary requirements not realistic

14. Tricky Application Areas
Salary
Try not to get boxed in
Be broad in this area, or write “Open” or “Negotiable”
Only write within the salary range you know they are offering (from previous ad, etc.)

15. Tricky Application Areas
Health and Ability
Legal vs. illegal
Legal: “Can you lift 50 lbs. from the ground?”
Illegal: “Do you have a disability?”
Previous workers compensation questions are legal

16. Tricky Application Areas
Criminal Record
Legal Question: conviction only
Illegal Question: arrest or imprisonment
Be honest! Be specific to what the question that is asked.

17. Tricky Application Areas
Work History
List all jobs, even part time ones, so that gaps are filled
List self employment between full time jobs, if applicable
Volunteer positions in between full time jobs

18. Tricky Application Areas
Why did you leave your last job?
Plant closed or relocation
Moved
Seasonal work ended
Company downsized or reorganized
Corporate merger
Lack of work/lay off
Avoid the word “fired,” if applicable, use “terminated” or “irreconcilable differences”

19. Tricky Application Areas
What led you to consider becoming an employee of this company?
“Good working conditions”
“I’ve heard good things about the company”
“I feel it is a great opportunity, with lots of growth potential.”
“Excellent work environment”

20. Tricky Application Areas
References
Use no more than three references
Best, most recent, should be first
best references are a previous supervisor if possible, then co-worker, then friend or personal
Ask the person’s permission to use as reference
Don’t list anyone you’re not completely sure will give a good reference
Provide detailed contact information about reference

21. What is a cheat sheet?
Pre-completed document with all your information on it
You will only have to refer to it for information, not carry that info in your head
Never hand it in, still write out applications

22. Let’s try some applications!
Fill out applications and share for feedback
Fill out a sample paper application
Fill out the sample online application