How to Complete Job Applications

Erin OHanlon 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 Information
Name,

address, citizenship

Universal Parts of Job Applications

Work History
Where

you have worked before, what your job skills are

Universal Parts of Job Applications

Education
All

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 doesnt follow instructions Misspelled words Crossed out writing or cant 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

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.)

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

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.

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

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 Ive 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 persons permission to use as reference Dont list anyone youre 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

Lets 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 OHanlon, Self Sufficiency Program 609-601-9925, ext. 201