Completing job applications seems so boring, right?
That may be true, but investing time to fill out an application completely and accurately can save you tons of time in your job search! Did you know that most employers won’t bother to call you back for an interview if your job application is sloppy or incomplete?
Review the application form carefully and make sure that you have all of the necessary information to fill it out completely.
To save time, create a ‘master’ application where you can save all of your information including work history, volunteer experience, personal references and more. Then use your master to help you fill out additional job applications. Just be sure to update it when things change such as, getting a new job or address.
If you are planning on picking up an application to complete and return it to the employer site later, dress as if you were there for an interview on both occasions. You never know when the employer may want to speak to you about a job opportunity – be prepared! Also, keep the application in a safe place to prevent it from getting folded, crumpled, or spilled on! You may want to pick up two application forms, so that you have an extra available if you make a mistake. Finally, have someone else such as a friend, teacher or parent look over your application to catch anything you may have missed or spelled incorrectly by mistake.
The Resume
Source: JobWeb.com—Career development and job-search advice for new college graduates. Copyright © National Association of Colleges and EmployersResumes are what people use to get jobs, right? Wrong!
A resume is a one or two page summary of your education, skills, accomplishments, and experience. Your resume’s purpose is to get your foot in the door. A resume does its job successfully if it does not exclude you from consideration.
To prepare a successful resume, you need to know how to review, summarize, and present your experiences and achievements on one page. Unless you have considerable experience, you don't need two pages. Outline your achievements briefly and concisely.
Your resume is your ticket to an interview where you can sell yourself!
The Interview
Dress for Success!
You never get a second chance to make a good first impression! The way we dress indicates how we want an employer to think of us.
- Observe what other people are wearing in the environment you wish to work in and dress accordingly, but professionally. If you aren’t sure – it’s okay to ask!
- Attire should be of good fabric, properly tailored, clean and pressed or dry-cleaned.
- Hair should be clean, groomed and styled.
- Keep jewelry to a minimum and keep it tasteful.
