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JOB APPLICATION DOS AND DON’TS

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FILLING OUT APPLICATIONS PRETEST

1. Is it ok to leave blank spaces on a job application?

2. Should you use white-out on a job application?

3. Should you request a specific salary.

4. Does information have to be consistent with your resume?

5. If unsure of an answer, it is ok to be vague?

6. Is it cheating if you proofread with a partner?

What is a Job Application?A job application is an employment form that requests

personal information about an individual. Purpose:• Shows applicant is legally eligible for work• Minor test of the applicant’s literacy, penmanship, and

communication skills• May require information for use in a background check• Determine an applicant’s availability

Usually will require a resume and cover letter in addition to the job application.

Application SectionsPersonal Information

NameAddressWhat about my Social Security Number?

Not required unless hired or you are applying for a position that will be conducting a background check or security clearance.

Type of employment desired Educational Background Employment HistoryRelevant SkillsSchool and Community ActivitiesReferences

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ARRIVE PREPARED WITH WHAT YOU WILL NEED

Resume, driver’s license, etc.

Names & addresses of previous employers, as well as starting dates & salary information

Names, addresses & phone number of references

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ARRIVE PREPARED WITH WHAT YOU WILL NEED

Black pens (have extras) not pencils

Pocket Dictionary or

Smartphone with

a dictionary app

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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

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COMPLETE THE APPLICATION

THOROUGHLY & NEATLY

Print clearly – do not be in a rush

Think about your answers before you write them in

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COMPLETE THE APPLICATION AS THOROUGHLY & NEATLY

AS POSSIBLEDon’t indicate a specific salary,

write “open” if the application asks you for an expected salary.

Keep your information consistent with your resume.

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ANSWER TRUTHFULLY, BUT DON’T PROVIDE NEGATIVE

INFORMATION

Turn “negatives” into “positives” (such as “job ended” instead of “got fired”)

Points to ConsiderCriminal Record: If you have one, ask to discuss it, not just

write about it.Work History

Laid off: Take credit for the job you hadFired: Ask to discuss it with the employer“Job Hunting” is a legitimate reason for an employment gapJob Hopping: If you’ve had more than 3 jobs in the past 5 years,

have good reasons for leavingNo work history? List community involvement!

Bring your list of references with you to put on the application.

Illegal Information to ignore on a job application

Height, weightAge, sexMarital statusSize of your familyReligion, politicsBirthplaceRace or national originHandicapsArrests or convictionsMilitary discharge

An employer may ask you an off-limits question if that topic has to do with your ability to do the job.

Lifting requirements: physical handicaps can be asked about

Exceptions

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DON’T

DON'T leave blank spaces write N/A if the question does not apply.

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

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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.

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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.

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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

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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

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TWO FINAL THINGS:

If using a computer, use spell check.

Sign and date your application.

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ANY QUESTIONS

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POST TEST

1. What items would you bring with you when filling out a job application?

2. Can you use white-out on a job application?3. Is it wise to have some one other than yourself

look over an application?4. Should you make a copy of applications that you

fill out?5. Is it common to skip filling out an application

and say - see attached resume?

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Assignment

I will be handing out an application for you to practice with –

Please fill it out and turn it in.

This application will be used as a practice.

Then we will complete a job application to keep in our career folder.