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Completing an Application

Do's and Don't's    

  1. NEAT!  NEAT!  NEAT!
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  2. Type application if possible.  Otherwise, print or write neatly.
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  3. Never lie on an application.  It could be cause for not getting the job, or losing the job later.

  4. Follow directions as stated on the application, such as "Print all information", "Use black ink only", etc.

  5. Complete each item.  If it does not apply, put N/A (Non Applicable), so that the person reviewing the application knows that you have just not missed that line.
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  6. Always start with most recent first in listing schools and employment.

  7. Reason for leaving should be as positive as possible.
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  8. When listing job duties, list the most important or the ones that consume the most time first.
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  9. Use descriptive verbs when listing job duties.  Do not use personal pronouns such as "I".  All they do is take up space.
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  10. Be sure application is clean - no wrinkles, coffee stains, tire tracks, etc.
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  11. Be sure to sign it!

Resume Do's and Don't's

  1. Resume must always be typed.  Develop a basic resume and store it on a disc, then it will be easy to adapt to specific jobs.
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  2. Your resume must be NEAT!  No typos, misspelled words, coffee stains, tire tracks, etc.  Make sure the dog or your kids do not get a hold of it!
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  3. SELL YOURSELF!  Tell the employer what you can do for him/her.  They want to know what you can do to make their business successful.
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  4. Start job duty sentences with a verb - not "I".  That wastes unnecessary space.
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  5. Do not repeat the verbs - keep a list and vary them.
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  6. Keep resume simple and easy to read.  Using bullets for your job duties is a good idea.  Most employers spend only 30 - 45 seconds reading a resume, so you need to make it easy for them to find the information they need.
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  7. Always start with the most recent job and work backwards.
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  8. It is not necessary to list your reason for leaving on the resume.
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  9. Do not include any personal information which could be discriminatory such as age, ethnic background, sex, etc.
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  10. Do not list hobbies unless they relate directly to the job.
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  11. Type resume in a professional format.  This is no time to be "cutesy".
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  12. Use good quality bond paper in a neutral color such as ivory, gray or off-white.

  13. References:  list name, title, address and phone where they can most likely be reached during the day.  Always ask them before using their name. It is also a good idea to tell them if you know someone is going to be calling them so that they can be prepared.
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  14. Always include a cover letter with your resume.  The cover letter should be printed on the same paper as your resume.
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  15. There are three basic types of resumes    
              
    1. Chronological - standard format which lists jobs and dates in chronological order
    2. Functional - format which emphasizes skills rather than dates.  Is useful when you have had a spotty work history or when your skills are not directly related to the job you are applying for.
    3. Combination - Uses the best of both of the above formats.  It is a good way to focus on your skills while still listing your job history with dates.

              

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