STEP 6: Apply for jobs or other opportunities. UNIT 5: adapt STUDENT HANDOUT transition skills: applying for jobs The job application process is very similar to both the college application process and the financial aid application process (Unit 3). Setting clear goals, identifying action steps, and following through on your action plan will help you get the job you want. FILL OUT THE APPLICATION FORM Just like with your college application forms and your financial aid application forms, a job application form is an official and important document. Some job applications are even available online. Use care and precision when completing these forms. BEFORE YOU FILL OUT THE FORM: ● Read the directions and familiarize yourself with what you're being asked. ● Review the job posting or advertisement to remember what skills the employer is looking for. ● Draft your answers before filling in the final form. WHILE YOU ARE FILLING OUT THE FORM: ● Tailor your answers to the target market; be sure you give the information that this particular employer would be interested in. ● Use positive and active language to describe your activities, just like you did on your resume. AFTER YOU COMPLETE THE FORM: ● Check for mistakes that can make you appear unprofessional. ● Make sure your handwriting is legible. ● Make a copy of the form so you can review it later, before the interview. TAILOR AND SUBMIT YOUR RESUME Reread the job posting or advertisement and tailor your resume to fit what the employer is looking for. Look back at Lesson 11 if you need help in tailoring your resume. WRITE A COVER LETTER Every time you submit a resume to a potential employer, you must include a cover letter which explains why you are interested in the position and highlights a few items on your resume which make you a good match for the job. Just like a personal statement, a cover letter is very short (no more than three brief paragraphs), but it conveys a great deal of information about you to employers. When you write your cover letter, be sure to tell: What position you are applying for ● Where you heard about the job (which source you used to find the advertisement or job opening) ● How your personal experience and strength match the job qualifications ● How you see this job fitting in with your overall career path goals ● LESSON 20: BEGINNING YOUR CAREER PATH lesson 20: Beginning Your Career Path Property of PeerForward/© 2020 PeerForward; All Rights Reserved. 319