Applying for the Job

When you request a job application, you may be asked to fill it out immediately. Always be prepared to do so.
Before you go in to an establishment to request an application:

1.Contact friends and former co-workers to ask if you can use them for references. If you have never worked before, ask family friends (older adults), guidance counselors, teachers, pastors if you may use them for a reference. You might also use people for whom you have babysat or have provided lawn care. You might also include supervisors at places you have volunteered (Summer camp, Humane Society, and so forth). Have their phone numbers, addresses, and the correct spelling of their names with you. Never use someone for a reference without asking first.

2. Know when you are able to work and when you will need off. Be very honest about this. If you cannot work Sundays-say so. There is a job for everyone so if your availability does not fit the first place you interview, move on.

3. Know something about the place at which you are applying. What kind of people shop there or what does the business do? You don't want to apply at a place called "Sweet Things" and find out it's an adult book store and not a candy shop!

4. Dress appropriately. Dress for the place you want to work but use some restraint. If you wish to work where teens shop, you will want to look the part but if you have lots of piercings, tattoos, etc., please cover the tattoos and remove most of the jewelry. You will follow these same rules when you are interviewed for the position. Short sleeves will make a better impression than tank tops. If you are interviewing for a job at a retail store where adults shop, dress more conservatively. No jeans, no tank tops, no camis. Wear a nice skirt (not more than one inch above the knee) or dress pants,a sweater or nice pullover,hose and nice shoes. Heels should not be 3 inches high! Dressing stylishly is always acceptable but clothing must be appropriate. Ok- I can go into even more detail later but you are intelligent- you get the picture.

5. Ask if the business is accepting applications and use good grammar when asking. "Are you accepting applications?" If no, say "Thank you". If yes, say "May I have one?" If you are going to fill it out immediately, move to an area where you will not be blocking any customer business. If you are at the mall, go to the food court and use a table there (make sure it is clean!). Otherwise, find an out of the way place to do this. It helps to carry a clipboard and two pens with you. Use black or dark blue pens only. Other colors might be "cute" but do not convey seriousness. Write as neatly as you can. No scratch-outs (if you are prone to mistakes, carry wite-out with you or write the information on a piece of notepaper first and then copy it).

6. Proof-read your application before turning it in. Once you turn it in, thank the person and leave unless you are told to stay for an interview (this has happened to me more than once!).

7. If you are turned down for a job, see #2- There is a job for everybody! Keep looking and let me know if these tips are helpful!

What's this blog about?

I have noticed over and over how people no longer know basic working skills. I have seen or experienced just about every "don't" in the working world. Clerks on cell phones, inappropriate clothing, inappropriate conversation, poor communication skills, and more contribute to poor customer service and poor working habits. I hope to explore all of these and more on this blog. I also plan to offer help and training to correct these problems and help young people and first time workers become successful in any job they do.
Well, you wonder, who am I to offer this unsolicited advice? I am a middle aged woman who has worked since the age of 14. I have often worked two jobs at a time. I am the child of a single woman who worked two and sometimes three jobs. I learned a wonderful work ethic from my mother. Even my brother, who is handicapped, has such a fantastic work ethic that he keeps getting raises at his job! I am no raving beauty but not bad looking, either. However, the two traits my husband admired when we were dating was my smile and my work ethic (not my used-to-be cute butt?!)
Not only have I worked in many different fields, I also patronize many types of businesses. I can certainly tell you what I like and what I don't. I am so very average that I can assure you, my comments will speak for many.
Read on and feel free to ask questions and comment as necessary. Be kind!