EMPLOYMENT APPLICATIONS

PURPOSE OF APPLICATION FORMS

1. As a basis for interviewing or not interviewing candidates.

2. As an indication of an applicant's education and skills.

3. Determines how well an individual can follow directions, understand questions, and organizes answers.

4. Gives some indication of neatness, thoroughness, spelling, and writing abilities.

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GUIDELINES FOR COMPLETING

1. Call the company to inquire about specific times that may be set aside to fill out applications.

2. Dress appropriately.

3. Have necessary materials on hand -- pen; correction fluid; references; and education/employment history.

4. Read the entire form thoroughly before answering any questions and follow all instructions.

5. Complete all blanks -- write "NA" or "Not Applicable" if an item does not apply to you.

6. Know what position you are applying for and a date that you can start.

7. Provide honest, complete, and accurate information.

8. Be as neat as possible -- if you mess up, ask for another form. Better yet, take a bottle of "whiteout" with you.

9. Spell correctly and do not use abbreviations.

10. Use pen with black or blue ink.

11. Sign and date the form properly wherever requested.

12. Review completely what you have written.

13. Follow up with the company 5 to 7 days after you have completed your application.

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WHAT TO PUT IN SPECIAL BLANKS

1. Work History: Be prepared with all dates, names of supervisors, addresses, telephone numbers, salary, job title, duties, and reasons for leaving -- keep positive.

2. Criminal Record: Does not include minor traffic violations. If you have a record, put "will discuss at interview." DO NOT LIE.
   Know the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor.

3. References: Ask 3-4 people ahead of time. Use teachers, former employers, colleagues, coworkers, counselors, NOT family. Know names, titles, addresses, and telephone numbers.

4. Job Applied For: Be specific. NOT "I'll take anything."

5. Salary Desired: Put "Salary negotiable" or "Open" or state a salary range, for example, $15,000 - $17,000/year.
   (You may undersell yourself and not get the $ they would have paid you OR you may oversell yourself and have no chance at the job.)

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