Job ApplicationsJob Applications

How to Do It Right How to Do It Right the FIRST Time!the FIRST Time!

Make a Good First Impression

DRESS APPROPRIATELYPossible immediate interviewBring résumé and references

Read Directions

Read all instructions BEFORE you begin

Respect the sections that say “For Office Use Only” or “Do Not Write Below This Line”

Be Neat

Take 2 copies of the application if possiblePrint neatly in BLACK ink or typeSpelling and grammar should be correct, have

someone proofreadMistake? One line through error, don’t use

correctable fluid!Respond to ALL questions. Not applicable? USE

N/A. Leave NOTHING BLANK!NO ABBREVIATIONS

Be Prepared

Have ALL information including:– Dates and addresses of all last work

experience (paid and volunteer) – Names and addresses of schools attended – License numbers, social security number,

health card, etc. – Resume (if you have one)

Positive and Honest!

Find ways to put your skills in a good light

Think of attributes you’d want if you were the employer

Tell the truth – lying gives reason for dismissal later on

Qualifications

Think carefully, select the qualifications that make you the best for that job

Use the job description to help you

SELL YOURSELF!

Reasons for Leaving

Avoid using the words "fired," "quit," "illness," or "personal reasons"

Use instead: "Returned to school to learn new skills" or "To find a job that more closely matched my skills"

Illegal Questions: How to Answer

If the question does not bother you, answer it

If it does bother you, you may want to use N/A or a dash ( -- )

References

Look for people who honestly know you and will speak objectively –not just parents of friends

Teachers are usually a good choiceNo one related to you!

If possible, If possible, take it take it home!home!