So much emphasis gets placed on resume preparation and acing the job interview, that we often overlook the importance of properly completing applications. IS YOURS IN DANGER OF BEING THROWN AWAY?

An application is often the first time an employer has seen or heard your name: it makes a first impression…for or against you. We usually associate a “first impression” with our first face-to-face meeting, but the power (or the weakness) of the written word goes before us when an application is submitted to an employer. What impression is yours making?

How do you feel when you find typing or grammatical errors in the newspaper, in famous novels or on materials sent home from your child’s school? They make you wonder about the skills, and qualifications of the person who wrote the text, don’t they? The care with which you prepare your application communicates the value you place on the position for which you’re applying. At left are few tips for telling the employer, “I really want this job!”

These are the basics for completing a legible job application. We are happy to provide individual assistance for other trouble areas and encourage everyone to subject at least one application to a “spot check.” Anyone having difficulty completing applications is invited to see the Vocational Counselor or the Employment Interviewer at the Center for a quick review of their application. Almost everyone who has been to see us has benefited from one tip or another. Anyone who runs into what they suspect is an illegal question is urged to bring the application to the attention of a Department of Labor employee.

Have you already submitted a questionable application? We have found that most employers are very cooperative if you ask them to accept a revised, more accurate application. It may not be too late!