12 Maintenance Operations Tips for Completing a Job App lication ■ Follow the instructions for filling out the form. Many applications are completed online. If you are completing a printed application, be as neat as possible. The instruc- tions may ask you to print or to use black ink. Be sure to follow these directions. ■ Complete every question in the form. If some questions do not apply to you, draw a dash or write “NA” (for not appli- cable) so the employer knows you did not overlook it. ■ If the application asks for a Social Security number, you may wish to ask if this can be provided after a job offer is made. ■ You can write “open” or “negotiable” for any question regarding salary requirements. ■ For each former job, there may be a question asking your reason for leaving the job. Avoid writing any negative com- ments about yourself or a former employer. Goodheart-Willcox Publisher Figure 1-10. Tips for completing a job application. 1.4.3 Job Application Forms Aside from the three main pieces of writing you will need—a résumé, cover letter, and references—a prospective employer may also ask you to complete a job application form before obtaining an interview. Th e job application form highlights the information the employer needs to know about you, your education, and your prior work experience. Th e appearance of an application form can give employers their fi rst opinion about you. Fill out the form accurately, completely, and neatly. When asked about sal- ary, you may write “open” or “negotiable.” Th is means you are willing to consider off ers. However, it is a good idea to research the typical salary range of the type of job you are applying for, so you have some idea of what to expect. Tips for completing the job application appear in Figure 1-10. T E C H T I P Negotiating Salary Many employers want to know your prior earnings. Realize that your prior salary may not take into account your newly acquired education. After obtain- ing a certifi cate or degree, your worth increases. Keep this in mind when reviewing any offer. Most employers request electronic applications, either through their company website or independent job-search websites. When fi lling out an online appli- cation, it is extremely important to include key terms for which the employer may search. Th is will help your application stand out among the many other applica- tions the employer will receive. 1.4.4 The Job Interview Th e interview gives you the opportunity to learn more about a company and to convince the employer that you are the best person for the position. Th e employer wants to know if you have the skills needed for the job. Adequate preparation is essential for making a lasting, positive impres- sion. Here are some ways to prepare for the interview: ■ Research the employer and the job. Know the mission of the employer and specifi cs about the job. Also, try to learn what the company looks for when hiring new employees. ■ Be prepared to answer questions. Go over the list in Figure 1-11 and prepare answers for each question. ■ List the questions you want answered. For exam- ple, do you want to know if there is on-the-job training? Are there opportunities for advancement? ■ List the materials you plan to take. Th is seems simple enough. However, if you wait to grab items at the last minute, you will likely forget something important. ■ Decide what to wear. Dress appropriately, usu- ally one step above what is worn by your future coworkers. For instance, casual clothing is accept- able for individuals who will do manual labor or wear a company uniform. If the job involves greet- ing the public in an offi ce environment, a suit is more appropriate. Always appear neat and clean. ■ Practice the interview. Have a friend or family member interview you in front of a mirror until you are happy with your responses. ■ Know where to go for the interview. Verify the address of the interview location by checking the site beforehand, if possible. Plan to arrive ready for the interview 10–15 minutes early. Within 24 hours after the interview, send an e-mail or letter to each of the people with whom you inter- viewed, thanking them for meeting with you. If you get a job off er, respond to it quickly. If you do not receive an off er after several interviews, evaluate your interview techniques and seek ways to improve them. 1.5 SUCCEEDING IN THE WORKPLACE After securing employment, adjusting to your new duties and responsibilities will occupy your fi rst few weeks. Your supervisor and coworkers will help you learn the routine. It is common for new employees to receive an introduc- tion to company policies and procedures, as well as the special safety rules that all employees must know. Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.