JOB APPLICATION PREPARATION You should be prepared to spend anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour completing an online application. The more prepared you are, the less time consuming the process will be. Whether filling out job applications in person or online, collect the following information before you start filling out applications: • Names and addresses of your past employers • Dates you worked • Names and addresses of at least three other persons who know of your abilities and background and are willing and available to serve as references • Names and addresses of all schools you attended and the type of diploma or certificate, if any, that you received • Subjects you took in school Be sure to collect all of this information prior to starting your job application online, or prior to arriving at a job site to request or fill out an application. Using your resume as a guide when filling out applications is helpful because it contains all of the above information needed for most applications. TIPS FOR COMPLETING JOB APPLICATIONS BE PREPARED Draft a personal data sheet Check online to see if you can get a copy of the application form you will be asked to complete. Fill out the application form to bring with you. By having the information ready ahead of time, it will increase the likelihood of it being complete and accurate. If you cannot get a copy of the application, create a personal data sheet before leaving home. This should include all the information you might need to complete an application, like names of previous employers, employment dates, addresses and telephone numbers. Use the personal data sheet as you fill out the application. If you have a resume, use it as your personal data sheet along with a list of references. Most applications will have space set aside for you to list the names and contact information for each reference. Include this information on your personal data sheet. If you are not sure about any part of the form, ask the person who gave you the form to explain. BE ATTENTIVE Read everything carefully Before you begin to fill in the blanks, read everything on the application carefully. Pay close attention to what is being asked and how you are expected to respond. Make sure you follow the instruction in the posting. 41
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