Today I will cover a topic rarely considered, but critically important to job applicants: “How to apply for a job online, the right way.” Considering this a process that we only engage in during

a job search, most people have little experience or awareness as to exactly what is going on “behind the scenes” or more aptly “behind the screen.” We will cover some key areas for effective job application through the internet.

 

Why do most employers utilize the internet for the job application process?

 

• Cost
• Convenience
• Control

 

Employers save money, candidates can access the system 24/7 from around the globe, AND

the employer can control the content and the process.

 

So, what happens when you click “SUBMIT?” These are some of the possibilities:

 

Application goes into a database and is screened according to key words

Application goes to Human Resources and is individually read

Application goes directly to the Hiring Manager

 

An online application is a reflection of your professionalism, maturity and attention to detail.

• First impressions are KEY!

 

And now for the basics:

 

A professional working email address, like:

pcarpino@hotmail.com

Your correct phone number

Your correct mailing address

Full addresses and phone numbers for references

Do NOT use all lower or UPPER case: CAPITALIZE where appropriate

Appropriate punctuation

Check spelling and grammar

Double-check all information and then double-check again

Answer ALL of the questions

Complete ALL information, don’t leave out any Dates, Addresses, Phone Numbers or

Supervisor names

 

Be honest!

Answer the questions about criminal record, driving record & reason for leaving your former employer

Be up front from the beginning

Employer will discuss the circumstances, if they choose

Don’t state, “I don’t remember”

 

 

Here are the “Don’ts”

 

Don’t exclude any employers

Don’t place restrictions on days/times you can work

Don’t apply for a position that you are not interested in

Don’t leave off the job code, if provided

Don’t use the same cover letter for each job application.

Don’t leave any space blank

Don’t say anything negative about your employer. Focus on the positive!

Don’t apply for jobs you are clearly not qualified for

Don’t have unreasonable salary expectations

Don’t state: “See resume”

 

And the “Do’s”

 

DO TAKE YOUR TIME: be prepared for the process to take 2-3 hours!

DO add additional skills if asked for

DO thoroughly read the job posting

DO use bullet points and action verbs

DO use references that you have known for at least 1 year

DO ask references before you list them

DO tout your successes and achievements

 

Here’s how to impress you potential new employer:

 

Add your successes and achievements to your online application

 

Complete each and every section of the application

 

Make sure ALL information is correct

 

Use key “buzz” words and industry verbiage

 

Tailor your application information to the position

 

Include numbers and statistics, if available and accurate

 

Use quotes from letters of recommendation or references

 

Follow up with a personal email to the recruiter, if possible

 

Use a simple resume format, no fancy bullets, text or italics

 

Don’t copy and paste text from a generic resume

 

You are the Product

 

An online job application is your marketing tool. It can promote and accentuate your strengths, skills, aptitudes, achievements, professionalism and experiences. The time and attention that you pay to the detail can differentiate you from the other candidates. It can be your key to a job interview. Remember, the application will NOT get you the job, it will get you the interview. The interview may get you the job offer.  Some of these software programs are very, very sophisticated. One major Fortune company can run a report on how long it took you to complete your application. Although applying online is free, you are investing your time and talent to achieve success. Invest wisely! Good luck and I’ll see you next month.

 

Paul Carpino, M.A. is a Career Counselor at the University of Nevada Las Vegas and the author of the popular book, “Now, Launch Your Career,” available at: www.iUniverse.com