Do – You need to let the potential employer or hiring manager know how to direct your job application and/or resume when it is received to the proper department or person. Do your research in regards to the skills needed for the job you are applying to as well as the expected salary or wage.
Don't - Don't write on your job application that you will take "any" job or "any" position.
Do - Do your own research on the company if needed. Read the job posting again to make sure you have all the information provided.
If the employer states complete an online application, then follow all steps in the application process, this might include online submission of your resume and cover letter.
If the employer wants you to copy and paste your resume into the application, have a text resume prepared and copy your information into the space available.
Don't - If the employer states "no walk-ins", do not walk into the business and ask for an application or ask to leave your resume.
If the employer states "no phone calls please", do not call the business.
Do - Making mistakes on a paper application can be a huge turn-off to a potential employer.
In order to keep your errors to a minimum or your application error-free. Make a copy of the paper application. Practice filling out the copy before you fill out the actual application.
If you make a mistake, put a straight line through the error and put your initials out to the side.
Don't - DO NOT use white-out on the application or make scribble lines over an error.
Do – Fill each section in as it pertains to you. If a section does not apply, put N/A in the section. This will help you when you are reviewing the application to notice any section you might have passed over.
Don't - DO NOT leave blanks on your application.
Do - Make sure you have all of your documentation in front of you or easily accessible before you start an online application. Have at least four references that you can include if needed.
Don't - Some, not all, online job applications are timed. Taking too much time may cause it to time out and will not be considered for the job.
Do – Customize your resume to match the job opening. If there is more than one opening at the company, create a resume for each opening. Before you upload your resume, make sure the format is transferred over properly. Make sure there are no changes to the overall resume document.
Don't – Do not use a generic resume.
Do - When an employer wants a .docx file this is a Word file, .pdf is a printing document file, and .html is a hypertext markup link (webpage) file.
Don't - Don't send the wrong file type to an employer. Make sure you follow the instructions.
Do – Remember (always remember) you only get one chance to make a first good impression. So if you are delivering your resume in person or picking a resume up, dress like you are going on a job interview.
Dress APPROPRIATELY. There are times when you pick up an application or drop one off you might get an interview on the spot, so be prepared.
Don't - Dressing in your pajama pants with flip-flops or your pants down around your thighs is not a good first impression.
Do – If you pick up an application in person and tell them you are going to bring it back the next day, do it. Make sure you take the application back when you said you would.
Don't – Do not give them a reason to think that you are not reliable.
Do – It is fine to post a summary of your skills and experience.
Don't – Do not post your social security number, opinions, or photographs that go against the image that you want to show.