1. Job Applications How to Do It Right the FIRST Time!

2. Make a Good First Impression  DRESS APPROPRIATELY  Possible immediate interview  Bring résumé and references

3. Read Directions  Read all instructions BEFORE you begin  Respect the sections that say “For Office Use Only” or “Do Not Write Below This Line”

4. Be Neat  Take 2 copies of the application if possible  Print neatly in BLACK ink or type  Spelling and grammar should be correct, have someone proofread  Mistake? One line through error, don’t use correctable fluid!  Respond to ALL questions. Not applicable? USE N/A. Leave NOTHING BLANK!  NO ABBREVIATIONS

5. Be Prepared  Have ALL information including: –Dates and addresses of all last work experience (paid and volunteer) –Names and addresses of schools attended –License numbers, social security number, health card, etc. –Resume (if you have one)

6. Positive and Honest!  Find ways to put your skills in a good light  Think of attributes you’d want if you were the employer  Tell the truth – lying gives reason for dismissal later on

7. Qualifications  Think carefully, select the qualifications that make you the best for that job  Use the job description to help you  SELL YOURSELF!

8. Job Gaps  Positive ways to explain the gaps  Ex. managing and maintaining a household, attending school, and providing child care  Volunteer work is an added bonus

9. Reasons for Leaving  Avoid using the words "fired," "quit," "illness," or "personal reasons"  Use instead: "Returned to school to learn new skills" or "To find a job that more closely matched my skills"

10. Illegal Questions: How to Answer  If the question does not bother you, answer it  If it does bother you, you may want to use N/A or a dash ( -- )

11. References  Look for people who honestly know you and will speak objectively –not just parents of friends  Teachers are usually a good choice  No one related to you!

12. If possible, take it home!