1. Employment Documents Unit 5 Objectives:
Demonstrate word processing procedures for creating employment documents
Complete a job application
Write a cover letter
Create a resume
Obtain letters of reference
Demonstrate job interview techniques

2. Employment Documents Job Application Cover Letter Resume
Thank you letter

3. Job Application Why is it important?
A Job Application is more than just a piece of paper. It provides employers with the first impression of a potential employee. An application that is sloppy or contains inaccurate information will always end up in the trash.

4. Job Application What is the purpose?
Provides personal data, education, and work history
Demonstrates ability to read and follow simple directions
Demonstrates ability to write neatly, spell, and provide clear and concise descriptions of work history and education
To verify honesty

5. Job Application Guidelines for Completing
Read entire form first
Application Tool Box:
Pen with blue or black ink, preferably blue
Social security number
Work history including dates, addresses, phone numbers
References
Answer all questions completely and honestly
Write “NA” (not applicable) if an item does not apply to you

6. Job Application Components
Personal information – name, social security number, address, phone number(s)
Position applied for – list the specific job applying for
Education – schools and colleges attended, degrees and certifications earned, dates
Work experience – job titles and descriptions, employers, hours, and wages
Criminal history – applicants arrest record, if any
Signature – Full name, not nickname. Signature implies that information on application is true and complete
References – former employers, teachers, and advisors

7. Reference Guidelines Use references who:
Know your character, experience, skills and work ethics
Will give you a positive recommendation
Always ask permission before using someone as a reference

8. Cover Letter What is the purpose?
To introduce the applicant to the potential employer
To explain reason for applying
To describe qualifications
To request an interview
To complement the résumé

9. Cover Letter Guidelines for Keying
Must be keyed in 11 or 12 pt font
Must be error-free
Address to a specific person, avoid Dear Sir
Content should be clear and concise
Letter should be brief
Use personal business letter format
Use high quality paper

10. Cover Letter Components
Paragraph 1 – What position you are applying for and how you found out about the job
Paragraph 2 – Why you should be hired. Information about your qualifications and experience.
Paragraph 3 – Request an interview and provide contact information

11. Résumé – What is the purpose?
Summarizes applicant’s qualifications
Provides personal data, education, work history, and reference information
Stimulates interest of employer
Determines if applicant is worth interviewing

12. Résumé Guidelines for Keying
Limit it to one page, if possible
Showcase skills and qualifications, but be honest
Use reverse chronological order for education and work experience
Use “action verbs” such as created, designed
Use present tense in describing a current job and past tense for others
Get permission to use names as references
Key and proofread carefully

13. Résumé Components Personal Data – Name, address, phone number, e-mail
Objective – Position applied for
Education – Schools attended or currently attending, specialized subjects or programs, graduation dates (or expected graduation date)
Work experience/volunteer work – Employment history, volunteer positions, apprenticeships
Skills and abilities – Job-related skills and abilities
Honors and Activities – Honors, awards, activities that indicate leadership and teamwork ability or relate to position
References – May include statement indicating that references are available upon request

14. The Interview What is the purpose?
Most important step in the employment process
Applicant’s opportunity to
Showcase self and qualifications
Learn about:
opportunities for advancement
employer’s management style
expectations of the job
Employer’s opportunity to:
Assess the applicant’s personality, motivation, knowledge, and work ethic
Determine if the applicant is a “right fit” for the company

15. Before the interview… Research the company and industry
Plan and practice:
an introduction of yourself
what to say about your skills, knowledge, abilities, experience and goals
a list of questions to ask
Select appropriate attire
Prepare a résumé (if needed)
Make a list of references (with permission)
Plan to go alone
Print directions (if needed)

16. During the interview… Arrive on time – not too early or late
Show confidence and positive attitude
Speak clearly
Give firm handshake
Display appropriate body language
eye contact
hand gestures
active listening
Sell yourself and qualifications
Be truthful
Answer and ask questions
Thank the interviewer for the interview

17. After the interview Follow up with a thank you letter Guidelines
Shows employer that you are interested in the job
Opportunity to clarify something you said or forgot to say during the interview
Guidelines
Keep it short and error free
Thank interviewer for taking time to talk with you
Restate your interest in the job and why you’d be an asset to the company
Use personal business letter format
Send no later than two days after the interview
Be persistent, but not a pest