OK, part-time jobs, holiday jobs, full-time jobs -- a lot of them are going to put you through that fun, fun process of filling out applications. In some countries crimes are punished by filling out job applications. Alright, that's not true, but if you've ever filled out a bunch of applications, you could probably imagine how it would be possible.
To make the whole ordeal a little easier, here are some quick tips to make a painful process slightly less painless and more effective in getting you a job.
- Try to avoid filling out the application right there. You're only going to rush it and you probably don't have all the information they need on you. Go home; take your time; write neatly; use a pen you like instead of one of those imprisoned on a chain. When you're not in a hurry, you're going to fill out a much neater, more prepared resume.
- If a salary or pay objective is available, leave it blank. Putting something there might hurt your chances at negotiating to a level acceptable for you and also might cause you to be excluded. This is a discussion better for an interview.
- Be wary of questions regarding arrests, denial of credit, etc. Be careful about how you answer, and a lot of the time, it's illegal for employers to even ask these types of questions, depending on your state.
- When asked to fill out that part where they want your entire employment history (complete with addresses), only give brief information and refer them to your resume, which brings us to the next tip.
- Attach your resume. This only gives them more background and makes you appear more professional.
- And when you return your application, also attach a cover letter. Make sure it states your qualifications and clearly illustrates your enthusiasm to work there. Doing this really sets you ahead of all the other apps.
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