The Zone - Minnesota WorkForce Centers

Applications

Two very important things to remember when filling out an application is to be honest and to fill it out completely. An application is a legal document, and you could be fired for lying on your application.

Picking up the Application

Dress conservatively when picking up an application. Dressing nicely shows that you care about making a good first impression and it shows that you want the job. Wait to ask for an application when the person is not busy or helping customers. Be prepared with a pen and all the information you would need to fill out the application on the spot.

Visual Impact

The application should be neat, with no errors in grammar or spelling. You should print your responses with black ink and try not to use any abbreviations. It is also very important that you respond to all questions. If a question does not apply to you then write in N/A (not applicable) that way the employer knows that you have read the question but it does not apply to you.

Follow Directions

Read the entire application before you begin. Pay close attention to what is being asked and how to you are expected to respond. Pay attention to things like “Do Not Write Below This Line” or Office Use Only.”

Be Positive

During your job search you want to present a positive and honest picture of yourself. Avoid any negative information. Look for ways to show that you are the right persons for the job. For instance, if you quit or were fired from your last job, there are ways that you can word it so that it will sound more positive. Try giving some of the following honest answers. Check statements that will serve well for your situation.

	Relocated		Temporary work
	Seasonal		Job ended
	Seeking a career change		Lack of work
	Family needed me		Better job offer
	Needed to devote more time to school		I preferred a better working environment
	Desired a more challenging position

Be Honest

It is important to be truthful on an application. The information you provide will become a permanent part of your employment record when you get hired. False information may lead to you being fired. Try not to volunteer more information that the employer is seeking.

Sell Your Strengths

Many applications have limited space for you to write in yours skills, experiences, or accomplishments. Display your qualifications that meet the specifics of the job. You can do this by reading the job description or the ad and make note of what skills they are looking for. You would then emphasize on the application that you have those needed skills. If there is a section that asks for other experiences or skills – do not leave this blank. Think about all the things you’ve learned in school or through community involvement. Here are some ideas of additional skills you could list.

CPR	Animal care	Construction
Child care	Second language	Volunteer
Yard work	Big Brother/Sister	Woodworking
Art skills	First aid	Photography
Mechanic	Painting	Team player

Salary Desired

When asked on the application what salary or pay you want you need to reasonable. You should put “starting wage”. If you have had a job you can put the pay that you left your last job at. If you feel that you were not paid what you were worth then you can probably be safe putting 5%-10%. The best bet is to put give a salary range instead of a specific dollar amount. You can also respond with “negotiable” or “open”

Position Desired

Never leave this question blank or reply “Any” or “Open.” If the job is an advertised job or you are looking for a specific position, enter the job title you want. If you do not know the job title, state the department in which you want to work.

References

References are an important part of your job search so choose them carefully. There are a few kinds of references that you could use. Employment references are former employers or direct supervisors. Academic references are teachers or others who can talk about your school accomplishments. Personal references are people who only know you socially – like a family friend. Be sure to include people who will say positive things about your work skills and who you are as a person. Also, be sure to get their permission to use them as a reference.

Dropping off the Application

Be sure to sign the application and take it back to the employer, following the same dress code you did when you picked up the application. Be prepared to interview because the employer may want to talk with you right away. Try to drop the application off with the manager or a supervisor. They are the ones making the decisions and they are the ones to impress – it also helps to put a face to a name.

Application Tips

	If possible take the application home where you can take your time.
	You may also wish to get two applications in case you mess up the first one.
	Do not include your middle school information – it is not necessary.
	If you earned your GED check “graduated”.
	If there is room list job related classes you took while in school.
	Fill in all the blanks – if something does not apply, put N/A or a dash –
	Do not lie on an application.
	Do not waste any opportunities to sell your qualifications.