There are two ways to obtain employment applications:
- During a plant site visit it is standard procedure that you fill out a job application. This is the most common method.
- Some companies have their applications available online. It may be advantageous for you to print the application after completing it online and have a copy of it with you during your plant site visit.
Keep in mind that a job application becomes an important part of your employment record and you must take care to fill it out completely and accurately. Should you land the job, any inaccuracies or false information can be grounds for future termination.
Important guidelines when completing your application, whether it's a hard copy or online:
- Fill out the Application completely and accurately -- It is best not leave blank spaces.
- Do not indicate "refer to resume" or "see resume" -- you need to fill in employment dates and titles etc.
- Dates of Employment: be precise and accurate.
- Current Salary Base: indicate your exact, current salary base. Many people are hesitant to reveal earnings or they inflate earnings. This information is subject to verification so be accurate. When a company asks your base they are seeking to know where you are currently so they can offer you an incentive increase. They need some type of reference point so they know they can keep you happy in the compensation arena for the short term and long term. I have very rarely seen a company take advantage of someone in this area.
- Salary Desired: indicate "negotiable" -- do not leave Salary Desired blank. It is best not to give exact numbers here if you can help it. Most job moves result in a 5-10% increase in base salary so keep that in mind if you are forced to give a range.
- References Section: This section will ask if it is ok to contact references and will ask for their names and numbers. This is standard procedure. This typically requires you to provide a signature to authorize them to check your references. Be sure to indicate that references/background checks not be conducted with current employer.
- Try to receive your application in advance if you can and have it completed when you arrive for your interview. Alternately, you can mail it back to them after the interview. If you take it home to complete it, be sure to complete it promptly as a missing application will stall a job offer almost every time.