How to Fill Out A Job Application That Will Land You an Interview
It may sound like simple science, but a few common errors can make your job application stand out in the wrong kind of way! In this article I have outlined a solid method to help your job application make a great impression and get you noticed in a positive way!
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Things You'll Need
- Blue or Black ball point pen
- Name, address, telephone number of all references, educational facilities you have attended, and previous employers.
- Job Application
Instructions
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Okay, will you be filling out a paper application or using a designated job application kiosk, or online source? If you will be retrieving a paper application, or using a kiosk make sure to arrive early on in the day. Your appearance should be clean and neat in tasteful casual wear. You can put on the ritz when you go in for the interview! Ladies, keep long hair out of your face and neatly held back. Gentlemen with long hair should do the same. If you will be using a paper application, it is important to request at least 2 copies, in case of error. Yes, there is white out but a clean - white out free application will look the best.
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Okay, now you have your paper applications, or are ready to use a job site kiosk or online application service. If you will be using a paper application form, use only black or navy blue ink. I also reccomend using only a ball point pen, as the ink is less likely to bleed or smudge. If you will be writing, use print only. Do not use cursive style handwriting. Make sure your handwriting is legible and neat.
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When filling in an application it is important to write in ALL fields, including those that do not apply to you. If you see a question on an application that you feel doesn't apply to you simply write or type n/a. Never leave a completely blank area on your job application. When filling out addresses, be sure to write full details. A full and thorough application will show your prospective employer that you are willing to go the extra mile! Also, never add a date to your application until you are on your way to turn it in.
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Always be honest on your applications, if you were terminated from a previous job or had a bad experience, be up front about it. In my experience the prospective employer will ask for an explanation, and be more willing to hire you based on your honesty than your past mistake. Remember, you are not the only person to ever be fired from a job or make a mistake. Employers do know this! You are more likely to lose a job opportunity for lying about having been fired or poor work experience, than for being forthcoming with the information.
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Everyone has job skills, even if you've never been employed before! Be sure to include any volunteer or life experience related to the field you are applying. When describing your job skills, use complete sentences and don't be afraid to use a good vocabulary to get an employers attention. For example; I could say "In my previous job I used lifts to help me get my job done." OR I could say " I have utilized mechanical lifts to assist me in completing job tasks relating to human services." Do you see the difference?
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References are important. This can be past co workers who praised your performance, teachers, or other persons who can testify to your work ethic and charachter. Your friends may always say something good about you, but a teacher or supervisor will most likely hold greater influence with a prospective employer.
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Now it's time to hand in your application! Be sure to arrive early, with your appearance neat and clean. Be confident and friendly, it doesn't hurt to request the manager themselves when handing in an application. Always be sure to place a follow up call to the place of employment within 2-4 days. This will show your interest and motivation to the employer. Keep your follow up call short and simple. Give them your full name, and tell them you just wanted to see to it that your application had a chance to be reviewed. With any luck, you should be scheduled for an interview soon after. Good luck!
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Tips & Warnings
Do not fold, roll, or wrinkle your paper applications.
Never scribble out an error, use a new application or white out as a last resort.
When filling out your paper application, be sure that your work surface is dry, clean and free of grease or smeared food.
