I have heard anecdotes about how employers see the tiniest mistake on an application and have thrown it away. I don't believe this to be true in most cases. Many businesses have a policy of keeping applications on file for a certain period of time. But when an employer is faced with hundreds or even thousands of applications, mistakes on an application can preclude an otherwise qualified candidate.
I spoke to the manager of a hotel recently about this. She told me that spelling errors on an application reflect negatively on the applicant. "It show's that they really didn't take the time and effort in applying for the position. Are they going to put a lot of time and effort in their job?" she asked. Although I am a firm believer that a mistake on an application is not a true representation of a person's abilities, it still makes for a bad first impression.
There a few things to keep in mind when you are filling out an application:
- Make a photocopy of the application
I always make a photocopy of each application I pick up for my clients. In the event that my client makes a mistake, I have a backup (which I will photocopy again in case of another mistake). Do not cross out mistakes or use whiteout. I know it's a pain to start all over again, but it looks better. Be mindful, though; make sure that the photocopy is identical to the original application (if it's in color, make a color photocopy; if its a generic form, it may be best to have someone else ask for another application for you)
- Make sure the information is accurate
Try to be as accurate as possible. Look up your previous employers' addresses and phone numbers instead of trying to recall by memory. Try to state the starting and ending dates as accurately as you can. Try to put down the full name of your last supervisor instead of just a first name, or a made up one. If you need to, contact a former coworker you might be friends with to verify old information.
In some cases, when my clients are unsure about previous employment facts, I will contact their former employers and say I'm calling on behalf of my organization and I would like to verify my client's employment. I typically ask when they were employed, I may ask to verify the name of the supervisor, and if the former employee is eligible for rehire. I like doing this because it gives me an idea of what they will say to other potential employers.
When a potential employer does follow up on the information you stated in your application and it turns out to be false or the information is not accurate, it can prevent you from being hired and you may not be given a second shot at the job.
- Take your time
After filling out countless applications, I often see that my clients grow impatient and just want to finish up. They become mistake prone, and their writing becomes less legible. Taking your time can help prevent minor errors.
- Ask someone you trust to proofread your application
A second set of eyes can be very helpful. It is very easy to make a simple spelling error or an error in the accuracy of your information. A second person might be able to catch it and give you a chance to redo your application.
- Be mindful of your appearance
One manager told me that when one of her staff is on duty when an application was received, she will ask about the applicant's appearance. Although it may not be necessary to drop off the application wearing the utmost professional attire, handing one in wearing a t-shirt, sweatpants, and flip-flops and being poorly groomed is probably not a good idea. You may be judged on how serious you are about the job by the clothing you wear and your appearance.
Competition in the job market is fierce. When evaluating two equally qualified candidates, an employer might scrutinize their applications. An application really gives very little information as to who you are or what you are capable of doing for an employer. Consider giving them a bigger picture by including a resume and a cover letter (to be discussed in future blogs).
Good luck out there, and don't stop looking!
Matt Cortez
Job Developer
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