How to Complete Job Applications

Erin O’Hanlon

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 InformationName, address, citizenship

Universal Parts of Job Applications

Work HistoryWhere you have worked before, what your job

skills are

Universal Parts of Job Applications

EducationAll 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 doesn’t follow instructions Misspelled words Crossed out writing or can’t 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

SalaryTry not to get boxed inBe 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 AbilityLegal vs. illegalLegal: “Can you lift 50 lbs. from the ground?” Illegal: “Do you have a disability?”Previous workers compensation questions are

legal

Tricky Application Areas

Criminal RecordLegal Question: conviction only Illegal Question: arrest or imprisonmentBe honest! Be specific to what the question

that is asked.

Tricky Application Areas

Work HistoryList all jobs, even part time ones, so that gaps

are filledList self employment between full time jobs, if

applicableVolunteer 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”“I’ve 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 person’s permission to use as reference Don’t list anyone you’re 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

Let’s 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 O’Hanlon, Self Sufficiency Program 609-601-9925, ext. 201