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Publications : ILO Publications :
GETTING HIRED: A Guide for Job Seekers
Who Face Barriers to Employment 5. Preparing Job-Seeking Documents
Nasir-i-Khusraw, Persian writer When you look for a job, employers expect you to fill out a job application or to give them papers that describe you and your qualifications. In this section, you will:
The Job Application The job application is a form that you complete when you apply for a job. Job applications ask about your education, work history and skills. Applications may also ask about your health, references or other things. Not only do applications tell employers about your qualifications, they are a sample of your work. Employers may decide whether or not to interview you based on your application. The application should be neat, complete and accurate. Here are some tips for completing job applications:
Use positive, businesslike language. For example, if you are asked why you left a job, use words like "laid off" rather than "fired" or "sacked." If you chose to leave a job, write "Left for a better position" rather than "Quit because the pay was too low". Do not say anything negative about a former employer on the job application or in an interview. Some employers may discard a job application based on factors that do not relate to your ability to do the job. Being disabled or having a history of alcohol or drug abuse are examples. One way to respond to such questions is to write, "Will discuss at interview". Employers who know you or a job placement officer can give you further advice. This issue is discussed further in Section 6, "Finding and Responding to Job Openings." References References are people who talk with employers or write a letter of recommendation on your behalf. Employers may call or write your references when you are being considered for a specific position. Some job-seekers have their references or even a former employer prepare a general letter addressed "To Whom It May Concern" and have photocopies available. Employers do not always ask for references, but you must be prepared to provide at least three. References should be people who have known you for at least a year and who can attest to your good character, work habits and qualifications. Former teachers, employers, instructors, and religious leaders make good references. You should not use family members. Ideally, references should be employed persons or have knowledge about the world of work. Exercise 5.1: Your References Applications often ask for references. In some countries, references prepare a general letter about the applicant's character and work habits. Use the following steps to identify three references:
Exercise 5.2: Completing a Personal Data Sheet A Personal Data Sheet contains the information requested on job applications. If you have prepared the sheet correctly, you can copy the information you need from the Personal Data Sheet onto your applications with confidence. To prepare one for yourself:
The Curriculum Vitae or Resume A curriculum vitae (CV) or resume is a typewritten summary of a job applicant's qualifications. People applying for professional or business jobs, such as teachers, architects or managers, are often expected to have CVs. CVs are given to employers or attached to letters when you inquire about job opportunities or respond to job leads. All CVs should contain your name and contact information, work history, educational experience and special skills. Depending on a country's job-seeking practices, employers may expect to see a job objective, marital status and personal interests or hobbies. The word "I" is not used in a resume. For example, when describing job duties, say "Prepared payroll" instead of "I prepared payroll".
The following are some "Do's and Don'ts" to assist you in preparing a CV.
Exercise 5.3: Preparing a CV Complete this exercise only if you know that you need a CV in your job search. Using your Personal Data Sheet, complete the following steps to prepare a CV:
Other Documents You May Need You may need to submit copies of diplomas or certificates that verify that you completed certain courses or passed qualifying examinations. Make sure you have clean photocopies available. ( You have prepared your job-seeking documents.
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Updated 2004-12-07 |
