For some positions, a resume and cover letter are all that is required to begin the employment process. For other positions, an application form must be completed and on file before the selection process may go forward. This is most likely when you apply for a position in a public school or public library. Many non-traditional employers of information professionals also require an application form. This means that no action will be taken on your request for consideration until the personnel office has received and reviewed your application form to insure that it is complete.
Personnel officers may use the application form to screen applicants. Your responses on the form may be used to decide whether or not you will be considered for the position. Applicants may receive ratings or scores solely on the basis of information provided on the form.
If you do a good job with the application form, it will increase the probability of an interview. A careless or incomplete job with the application may prevent you from getting an interview.
When you appear for the interview, the interviewer will have read and thought about your application form responses. Often these will guide the questions asked.
The first step is to secure the application form. If the proper address is not included in the position announcement, use your information seeking skills to find the address for the appropriate personnel department.
After the application form is in hand, always make a copy of the form.
Print the draft copy as neatly, accurately and completely as you can in pencil. Review the draft for spelling, punctuation or grammar errors. Have another person review the draft before completing the final copy. Complete ALL items on the form that need an answer. Leaving out a required field may result in your application being discarded or returned to you. If you do not know something, take the time and effort to find out. Incomplete application forms may not be accepted.
The work history part of the form is important and must be complete. Do not substitute your resume for this part.
Attach your resume only to supplement the work history shown and then only if it adds additional useful information. Be prepared to account for time when you were not employed. You may attach documents to the form if needed or required. Some application forms will tell you that attachments are not accepted.
Be certain to include a phone number where you can be reached during the day. An answering machine is important if you are frequently out during the day and don't have a cell phone or sometimes leave it off. Personnel departments rarely call on evenings and weekends.
When you are satisfied that your draft is as good as it can be, carefully transfer the information to the original copy. A neat, legible form suggests a neat, careful person. Sloppy, illegible text suggests a sloppy, disorganized person. Print in black or blue ink if you are not able to keyboard the information onto the form.
Keep the draft copy in a safe place for future use. It will be helpful in interview preparation and in responding to questions at the interview.
