how to complete job applications erin ohanlon sharon holtzman
TRANSCRIPT
How to Complete Job Applications
Erin O’Hanlon
Sharon Holtzman
How to Complete Job Applications
Introductions Tell us who you are…. What line of work are you looking for?
Universal Parts of Job Applications
Personal InformationName, address, citizenship
Universal Parts of Job Applications
Work HistoryWhere you have worked before, what your job
skills are
Universal Parts of Job Applications
EducationAll education should be listed, including one
time workshops and technical schools, even if not completed
Universal Parts of Job Applications
Criminal History Question
Universal Parts of Job Applications
Depending on the field, may include specific questions
availability (retail) References (professional) Licensing information (medical or casino)
Universal Parts of Job Applications Signature section
Typically includes statement and signature
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
Online Applications
Generally based on paper applications
Complete all areas, leave no blanks
Put in N/A for not applicable
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
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
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
Tricky Application Areas
SalaryTry not to get boxed inBe broad in this area, or write “Open” or
“Negotiable”Only write within the salary range you know
they are offering (from previous ad, etc.)
Tricky Application Areas
Health and AbilityLegal vs. illegalLegal: “Can you lift 50 lbs. from the ground?” Illegal: “Do you have a disability?”Previous workers compensation questions are
legal
Tricky Application Areas
Criminal RecordLegal Question: conviction only Illegal Question: arrest or imprisonmentBe honest! Be specific to what the question
that is asked.
Tricky Application Areas
Work HistoryList all jobs, even part time ones, so that gaps
are filledList self employment between full time jobs, if
applicableVolunteer positions in between full time jobs
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”
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”
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
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
Let’s try some applications!
Fill out at least three applications and then share for feedback.
Thank You.
Sharon Holtzman, Home to Work Program 609-601-9925, ext. 202 Erin O’Hanlon, Self Sufficiency Program 609-601-9925, ext. 201