 The completed job application will often make the crucial difference in
whether or not an employer will interview the applicant for a job
opening. |
| Employment interviewers will review and analyze the completed
application before deciding to give or not to give an interview. |
| Most employment interviewers will consider four things in an initial review of a jobseeker's written application: |
| (1) the information given |
| (2) the skills shown in presenting the information |
| (3) the way the jobseeker thinks as revealed by answers to application form questions |
| (4) the appearance and completeness of the job application. |
| In a detailed analysis, the employment interviewer will: |
| (1) study the applicant's employment history, check reasons for leaving previous jobs,
and look for gaps or periods of unemployment; |
| (2) evaluate educational background, including the completing of job-related courses; |
| (3) study the way the applicant replies to questions (looking for clear and accurate
answers with sufficient detail); |
| (4) check the quality of the applicant's handwriting; |
| (5) see what the application reveals about the applicant's
attitude; |
| (6) look for signs of self-reliance as well as the ability
to work in groups. |
| Develop an 'occupational work sheet' |
| (1) Some advance preparation is necessary before starting a job search and
completing job applications. |
| (2) An important requirement is that you prepare
a personal 'Occupational Work Sheet.' |
| (3) The 'Occupational Work Sheet'
contains the facts and details which you will need to complete job
applications. |
| (4) It also saves considerable time and frustration as you
proceed with the writing process. |
| (5) Complete the blank 'Occupational Work
Sheet,' and refer to it when filling out job applications.
A sample job |
| (5) Application follows the 'Occupational Work Sheet' and may be completed as
a practice exercise. |
| Suggestions for completing job applications |
| In completing job applications, use the following suggestions as
guidelines: |
| 1. Be sure your occupational goals are reasonable and relate to the
job for which you are applying. |
| 2. Read and follow the instructions on the job application. |
| 3. Read every question carefully before answering. |
| 4. Carry and use a fine-point, black or blue ink pen to complete the
job application. |
| 5. Write legibly and use the vocabulary of the industry you are
targeting. |
| 6. Include only positive information on the job application. |
| 7. Insert a short dash ( - ) after those questions that do not apply
to you. |
| 8. Allocate the most space on the job application to the most
applicable and pertinent data. |
| 9. List two (2) telephone numbers where you may be reached.(Always
include the Area Code with telephone numbers.) |
| 10 Write 'Open' in the 'Salary Desired' blank if you are not sure of
an appropriate amount. |