Your application is an advertisement of yourself and a sample of your work--an important reflection on you. By looking at applications, employers choose people to interview for the job, and they are generally more impressed with an application that has been filled out neatly and completely. The way in which you fill out the application may make a big difference in whether or not you get the job. Following are some guidelines in filling out applications.

1. Read the application completely before filling it out including the small print. Follow directions.
   
   
2. Fill out the application neatly. Print or write with a fine-point, blue or black pen. Use consistent lettering.
   
   
3. Fill out the application accurately. Avoid errors in punctuation, spelling, and grammar.
   
   
4. Be prepared to complete the application while you are waiting. Have references, education, employment history, dates, addresses, telephone numbers, etc., written out so that you just have to transfer this information from your notes onto the application form. Include volunteer jobs, internships, etc., that relate to the job for which you are applying.
   
   
5. If it is suggested that you take the application home to fill out and return later, make a copy to practice on.
   
   
6. Have something in almost every blank--no, none, N/A, or ---------. If there is a choice, choose appropriately and leave the other items blank. Or if you feel the question is unfair or has absolutely nothing to do with the job and you object to giving the information, you may want to leave it blank or put a line(-------) in the space.
   
   
7. Organize the space before you start to write. Don't abbreviate unless there is not enough space; then use an appropriate abbreviation.
   
   
8. Be sure to have a phone number, answering machine and/or message number where you can be reached.
   
   
9. Know the title of the job you want.
   
   
10. Select the kinds of words that will reflect well on you. For example, when stating reason for leaving your last job, don't use negative words like "quit" or "fired". Use words or phrases with positive meanings such as "lacked advancement opportunities" or "left to continue education" or "reduction in force". Write "to be discussed" or "negotiable" in the "salary expected" blank so you can discuss wages during the interview.
    
    
11. Be prepared to give three references. Make sure you have asked permission to use a person's name as a reference. Choose references carefully. They should be people who know you well enough to give positive information about your work performance or personal characteristics. Use a variety or sources:

    a. Local business persons
    b. Former instructors
    c. Former employers
    d. Former co-workers
    e. Neighbors
    f. Landlady/Landlord
    

    Avoid Using:
    
    a. Ministers or priests (unless you have a professional or working acquaintance with them.)
    b. Doctors or psychiatrists you have seen only professionally.
    c. Lawyers (unless you have a professional or working acquaintance with them).
    d. Friends who are mere casual acquaintances.

12. Sign your name legibly.
    
    
13. When you are finished, read over the application again to check for errors.
    
    
14. Attach your résumé to the application.
    
    
15. When turning in the application, have the recipient read it over for completeness. Be sure to ask questions at this time: What is the total application procedure? When will applicants be notified for an interview?
    
    
16. Make follow-up contacts--let it be known that you are interested and available.
    

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