1. 1 Job Application Strategies

2. 2 Job applications require:  Personal information  Position you’re seeking  Employment history  Education history  Skills, licenses, other training  References

3. 3 Provide Visual Impact Neat No grammar or spelling errors Print Avoid abbreviations Use black ink Answer all questions Use N/A (not applicable) if section doesn’t apply to you

4. 4 Follow Directions Activity

5. 5 Be Positive Present a positive yet honest picture Avoid negative information How can you demonstrate to the employer that you are the best person for the job?

6. 6 Target your qualifications Research  Skills  Work philosophy  Organizational culture What are most employer’s looking for in their employees?

7. 7 What employers want: Reading, Writing, and Math Learning to Learn Communication: Understanding ideas and information Adaptability: Creative thinking and problem solving

8. 8 Self-esteem, goal setting/motivation Interpersonal skills, negotiation, teamwork Organizational effectiveness and leadership

9. 9 Handling difficult questions:  Salary requirements  Open  Negotiable

10. 10 Reasons for Leaving  Avoid:  Fired  Quit  Illness  Personal Reasons

11. 11 Illegal Questions  Sex  Age  Disabilities  Marital status  Children  Race  Arrests

12. 12 References Who can talk about your qualifications?  Work related: employers/supervisors  Professional: coworkers/customers  Academic: teachers  Personal: social friends Be sure to get permission from your references!

13. 13 Additional Tips: Be prepared –Dress appropriately –Take a pen (black ink) –Gather all required information –Follow directions exactly –Be complete –Sign your application

14. 14 QUESTIONS For further assistance contact: NE Workforce Development or your local college/university