Your employment application may be the employer’s first impression of you. The application must look sharp. Carelessness may cause your application to be tossed.
It is essential to fill out an application as clearly and neatly as possible. Try to obtain or print two copies of the application ahead of time. Many companies have their job applications available on their web site. Print or enter your information very carefully and answer all questions briefly, but accurately. Proofread the application carefully. Keep an extra copy of the completed application for your file.
Applications vary from one company to another, but what is required essentially is an accurate record of past work experience and education. Maintain a personal file containing all relevant information. Check it carefully for accuracy. The following general rules apply to both hardcopy and electronic job applications.
Getting the application: If you are picking up or dropping off an application, be prepared for an interview. Also, dress appropriately because even though you may not get an interview that day, the secretary or person who takes the application may be asked by the interviewer what they thought of you.
Read the application carefully: Read the entire form carefully. Know what is being asked before filling out the form. Employers may use the application form to judge how well you follow instructions and how careful you may be as an employee.
Fill in the blanks: Answer all questions. Fill in the blanks completely, accurately, and truthfully. When something doesn’t apply to you, write N/A for non-applicable. Check your answers for correct spelling, grammar, punctuation, completeness, and accuracy.
Ink/Type: Use blue or black ink or type the application. Print clearly.
Position: Avoid the word “anything.” Put a specific job down to show you are not desperate and that you have a goal in mind.
Salary expected: Employers may use this question to screen out applicants. It is best to give a salary range or to respond with “negotiable.” Use one of these responses even if you know the wage. This leaves you room to negotiate a higher wage.
Personal information: If you don’t have a phone, give a number where messages can be left for you.
Education and training: List academic, vocational, and professional education and schools attended. Be prepared to attach copies of certificates or other documents. If you are planning to attend college, write or key, “Plan to attend XYZ College” and when.
Work experience: Always list the most recent employer first. Give complete and accurate names, dates, addresses, phone numbers, job titles, dates of employment, etc. Use your resume as a guide. Make sure the information presented in the application agrees with the information in your resume. Explain gaps in your work history.
Special job-related skills: Use action verbs to list your special job-related skills, training, licenses, and accomplishments. List the types of equipment/tools that you can use.
Reason for leaving: Be careful when giving your reason for leaving a previous job. Even if your previous boss was a jerk, you should never be negative. Acceptable answers include: “school conflict,” “conflicting hours,” “better opportunities for advancement,” “lack of work,” “seasonal employment.”
References: Most employers will call references, but they also may request a written evaluation by mail. Many employers can only tell dates worked and if they would re-hire you. Therefore, you may want to use teachers, counselors, principals, coaches, ministers, etc. as references. (Do not use relatives.)
Last details: Sign (Don’t print) your name and include the current date. Check carefully that you have completed the application. Once you fill out an application, it is a binding document; any misinformation could be grounds for termination. If you are asked when you can begin work, be sure to allow enough time to give at least two weeks’ notice to your current employer.