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How Do I Fill Out An Application
That Will Get Me Hired?
You're looking for your first job or a new one, and the employer
asks you to fill out an application. What now? How do I fill it out? What
information can I leave out? Relax, take a moment to think about your
answers, and read the information below. Here is some information that
will help you get an interview to get that dream job!
The
Definition
An application form is usually the first thing
an employer looks at that will give them an idea of who you are and see
if they want to hire you. This is your opportunity to show that you are
qualified for the job. The application is made up of different parts that
will show an employer that you have what it takes for the job.
From an Application
Employers Find Out:
- Personal information
such as name, address, and social security number
- Education history
that includes schools attended and whether you received your diploma
or any degrees
- Employment history
such as where you have worked and what your duties were on the job
- Personal references
that will be able to tell a potential employer what kind of person or
worker you are
Filling out
the Application:
- When you pick up
the application dress as if you were going for an interview in nice
clean clothes and make sure you are well groomed, you may get an interview
on the spot
- Be prepared to
fill out the application by having a blue or black pen to write with,
a small dictionary to check your spelling, and if possible a "white
out" pen to correct mistakes
- Make sure to read
each question carefully and think about your answer before you start
writing, this will help to prevent mistakes
- Follow all instructions
on the application and fill it out correctly, this will show the employer
that you pay attention to detail
- Fill in all the
blanks so the employer knows you didn't leave it blank on purpose, if
a question doesn't apply to you put a line through it or put "N/A" in
the space provided
- If there is a question
that may hurt your chances of getting the job, write in "Will discuss
in interview" and be prepared to explain your situation in the interview
Powering Up Your Application:
- There is only so
much space in on an application so make your words count by being prepared
and choosing your words carefully
- Don't try and cut
corners by putting "See attached resume" or "same as above", this shows
that you are taking the lazy way out of filling out your application
- Read the front
and back of the application before you start writing to make sure you
can answer all the questions and follow instructions
- Take two applications
if possible, this way you can practice writing down your answers on
one and then transfer your final answers to the clean copy
- Neatness counts
so make sure you can read your application, type it out if possible
or make sure your handwriting is neat, free of mistakes, and easy to
read
- Have someone read
your application before you turn it in, they will catch mistakes you've
made that you may have missed
Be sure to check
out our Workshops Listing if you are interested
in attending a workshop on this topic and many others. Click
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