1 JOB APPLICATION DOS AND DON ’ TS Patricia Crawford WBL Coordinator

2 FILLING OUT APPLICATIONS PRETEST 1.Is it ok to leave blank spaces on a job application? 2.Should you use white-out on a job application? 3.Is a necessity to request a specific salary. 4.Does information have to be consistent with your resume? 5.If unsure of an answer, it is ok to be vague? 6.Is it cheating if you proofread with a partner?

3 ARRIVE PREPARED WITH WHAT YOU WILL NEED Resume, social security card, driver’s license, etc. Names & addresses of previous employers, as well as starting dates & salary information Names, addresses & phone number of references

4 ARRIVE PREPARED WITH WHAT YOU WILL NEED Black pens (have extras) Pocket Dictionary

5 READ AND FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY Review the entire application before you begin Be sure to write your answers on the correct lines and in the right spaces

6 COMPLETE THE APPLICATION THOROUGHLY & NEATLY Print clearly – do not be in a rush Think about your answers before you write them in

7 COMPLETE THE APPLICATION AS THOROUGHLY & NEATLY AS POSSIBLE Don’t indicate specific salary requirements Keep your information consistent with your resume

8 ANSWER TRUTHFULLY, BUT DON’T PROVIDE NEGATIVE INFORMATION Turn “negatives” into “positives” (such as “job ended” instead of “got fired”)

9 DON’T DON'T leave blank spaces. DON'T be unclear. If the question calls for a specific answer, don't try to dodge it by being vague

10 DON’T DON'T use correction fluid. If you type your application, use a correctable typewriter or liftoff strips to correct mistakes. Better yet, fill out your application online DON'T write in script.

11 DO DO make copies of applications, and practice filling one out before you complete the original DO type or neatly print your answers, and then proofread the applications and essays several times for accuracy. Also ask someone else to proofread with you

12 DO DO make sure that everything that is supposed to be included is enclosed DO fill out your own applications. Type the information yourself to avoid crucial mistakes

13 DO DO start with the simple applications and then progress to the more complex ones DO describe how you can make a contribution to the companies to which you apply

14 ONE FINAL THING: If using a computer, be sure to use spell check

15 ANY QUESTIONS Contact: Patricia Crawford WBL Coordinator OCM BOCES

16 POST TEST 1.What items would you bring with you when filling out a job application? 2.Can you use white-out on a job application? 3.Is it wise to have some one other than yourself look over an application? 4.Should you make a copy of applications that you fill out? 5.Is it common to skip filling out an application and say - see attached resume?

17 Assignment I will be handing out an application for you to practice with – Please fill it out and return it to me in tomorrow’s class. This application will be used as model for when you fill out a resume for a future job.