As I discussed in my introduction of this blog's purpose is to find out ways to get promoted, but how can one get promoted without getting a job in the first place? I did some research online for some do's and do not's when trying to look for a job and filling out an applications.
Although, many companies changed to online applications; I would also like to address preparations for in-person application advice. As Christmas season is approaching, many retail stores are hiring seasonal help. I highly recommend people that are looking for a job to go out to those malls and retail stores to go get the applications now! I worked for several retail stores and they tend to hire a month ahead of the busy times. This allows time for Human Resources to process all your information and allows the manager to allot time to get all your training done well before the busy times hit.
When job hunting in person, you should dress as if you are ready for an interview on the spot. You might think this is unneccessary, but doing this simple gesture shows the person handing you the application that you are serious and ready to get the position. I did an experiment last year. I dressed with low cut shirt and jeans to ask for applications. The result I had was indeed interesting. The males that handed me the applications were very friendly and weren't serious when asked about the specifics of the position. The females that handed me the applications gave me dirty looks.
The best time to get applications is between 9AM - 5PM. This applies to retail and office jobs. Managers and Hiring Managers are usually working in the morning so they can turn in any paper work or neccessities before the main offices are closed. This way you get the chance to talk to the manager and hopefully present a good first impression. If the manager or assistant manager likes you, he or she will keep you in mind during the selection process. The manager for the company I worked for five years gave me an informal interview right after I asked for the application. We talked about various topics such as current events and hobbies.
Be mindful of where you fill out your application. Use your best judgement. If in a retail environment, make sure you ask yourself this question: "Am I taking up space that was meant for customers?" If the answer is yes, you should fill out the application at home. I had an applicant take up the whole counter while customers were finding space to fill out their workorders. The applicant didn't have the common sense to move for the customers. I highly recommend to fill out all the applications at the comfort of your own home. This way, you can concentrate on the details.
Get your own application and by yourself. I understand that you want to have a support group of friends job hunting together, but don't go into the store together as a group and ask for applications. Managers see this as a red flag. You and your friends will portray themselves as immature and not reliable. Do not have friends get you an application. I witnessed a group of friends trying to find jobs together but had only one come into the store and ask for four applications. My manager asked why she needed this much and she said it was for her friends as well. This person got hired but not the other three. She displayed courage and independence.
Fill out the application completely. This means to follow directions. If you can not follow directions with the job applications how can your employer expect you to follow directions when given when you are hired as an employee? Some common mistakes I found on job applications is not filling out the references section. Instead, the applicant writes: Available Upon Request. Toss this one to the trash! I believe that this section is requesting the applicant to write down their references. Spelling and simple typos will also get your application tossed into the trash. Here's a webpage that gives great advice about filling out the application itself. If you are trying to apply online, you definitely need to focus on this advice and tips the weblink above gives.
Is there anything I missed or you feel that are great tips concerning applications? Please comment below and share! Until next time!
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