You never get a second chance to make a first impression! The employment application is the first impression that you are giving your potential employer, so don't blow it! Some key things to keep in mind when completing an employment application:

Follow directions. If an application specifies that you write in ink, then write in ink. (i.e. Do not write in pencil.) This is the first impression to the employer as to whether or not you can follow instructions.

Fill out the application in its entirety. If something does not apply then simply write "N/A". Or "see resume" when necessary. Do not leave blanks, doing so will only show your potential employer your indifference to receiving the job as well as a lack of professionalism and lack of detail.

Take your time. It is strongly recommended that you take the application home and take your time filling it out. Put some thought into your answers. Remember that you are competing against other applicants to obtain this job and you need to show your potential employer why you are the best candidate.

Answer the personal statements appropriately. Your personal statements are the most important part of your application. If the personal statements are left blank, your application will not even be considered. So give your answers some thought, be specific and attach an additional sheet if necessary.

The first question asks "Why do you want to work at England's MicroCreamery?" Answer specifically why you want to work HERE (the question is NOT asking simply why you want to work; we specifically want to know why you have chosen to apply at England's MicroCreamery, what is it about England's MicroCreamery that interests you).

The second question asks "Why should England's MicroCreamery hire you?" This is your chance to sell yourself! Why should we hire you above another applicant? What can you bring to this business? What is so great about you?

Neatness and Spelling. Again, back to first impressions. Good handwriting will always make a better impression than sloppy handwriting. Most importantly, make sure your telephone number is legible. We are not able to call you if we are unable to read your phone number. Also, refrain from crossing words out or having scribbles. Pay attention to your spelling and grammar as well.

Include impressive references. Put some thought into who you want as your references. Good references come from mature people in a respectable position who can speak about your character. Some good ideas are always teachers, coaches, guidance counselors, clergy, previous employers, parents of friends, neighbors, etc. Poor choices for references are young peers, boyfriends/girlfriends.

Give thought to what impression you are making.
E-Mail - If you are giving your potential employer your email address, give thought to what your email address says about you. Be sure that your email address is not inappropriate.

Voicemail - Give thought to what your outgoing voicemail message may say about you as well. If your potential employer calls you and receives your voicemail, what impression does your message have?

Speak for yourself. Always speak directly to your potential employer; as opposed to having your parents speak for you. (For example, do not have your parent come in to ask for an application). We are hiring YOU, not your parents. Having your parents speak for you (however well intentioned they may think they are being) does nothing more than DECREASE your chances of getting hired. You need to prove that you are independent, responsible and can take initiative.

Follow-Up. Check in periodically, perhaps once a month, preferably in person, to reinforce your interest in working here.

Update and/or Re-Apply. Update your application if anything changes such as contact information, work experience and/or availability. Always feel free to re-apply each year to show your continued desire to join our staff.

Thank you. If you are granted an interview, follow-up by sending a thank you note to your interviewer. Tell them what interests you about the prospect of working here. This keeps you at the top of the consideration list and reinforces your interest in the job.