Determine who your potential references are. Ask them in advance if you can list them as a reference. Two weeks advance notice is minimum if you are asking for a letter of recommendation. Be sure to thank your references. A thank-you card or a small gift is appropriate.

 

Contact the employer. Ask about the job opening and about the application process. After applying, return a thank you within 24 hours and follow up on the status of your application about a week later. There are three main ways to apply for a job, and there are different ways to complete each one.

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Job Application Types

 

1) In-Person

An in-person job application is similar to a job interview in several ways, including what to do before and after. In fact, be prepared for an on-the-spot interview. Be sure to arrive with the items that you need. If possible, give your materials to the hiring manager personally. Ask the hiring manager for their card or contact information and follow-up accordingly.

 

2) Online

You can apply through job search engines or apply directly to the company's website. Make sure you send your application to the correct person or department.

 

3) Email

Be sure that your email is formatted correctly and that you communicate professionally. View Purdue Online Writing Lab's formatting guide for basic business letters.

 

items to prepare:

 

• Resume and cover letter

• List of references

• List of previous employers

• Information about your education

• Information about your previous employment

• Reasons why you left your previous employer

• Social security card

• Driver's license or other legal ID

• Hours/days available for work

• Personal contact information

• A notepad and pen

 

Fill out a sample application. Chances are, you will make mistakes the first or even second time. Practicing on a sample application beforehand will keep you from repeating any mistakes on the actual application. Our favorite online resources are Letters.org and Template.net.

 

Review the instructions and follow them carefully. Be sure to be neat and fill out the application completely. If certain points do not apply to you, write down "Not Applicable" or "n/a". While it is appropriate for you to attach your resume to your application, never take a shortcut by writing down "see resume" on the application.

 

Proofread, proofread, proofread! The importance of proofreading cannot be emphasized enough, as spelling and grammar issues are the most common mistakes made on applications. Be sure that the information on your application is consistent with the rest of your documents - always review your application before submitting it!