How To Apply For Jobs In Person

Before you apply for a job in person, it's important to know what you need to bring when you apply in person for jobs, the information you'll need to complete a job application, how to prepare for an on the spot interview, and how to follow up after you have applied for jobs.
This step-by-step guide will provide all the information you need to apply for jobs in person, make a terrific impression, and to successfully get hired.

• Check out who's hiring 

Before you apply for jobs in person, it's important to check out who is hiring. Take the time to research potential employers prior to applying for jobs.
Start by checking your local newspaper's online help wanted ads. If your city or town has a Chamber of Commerce website with job listings, check that, too. Use the job search engines to find jobs in your town by searching by zip code.
Also take the time to walk around town or the mall to see which stores have "now hiring" signs in the window.

• Download a sample Job application form

You'll need your resume or a list of your employment and education history to make sure that you're listing the correct dates of employment, job titles, and education when you apply for jobs.
Download a sample job application form and complete it prior to applying for jobs. Print and fill it out so you know exactly what information you will need to complete an in person job application.
Then use the completed sample job application as a guide when you're completing your own job applications

• Attire to put on for applying in person

When you are applying for a job in person, business casual attire is usually appropriate. It is always important to be neat, tidy, and well-groomed and to present a positive image to the employer.
Don't wear jeans or shorts, tank tops, crop tops or anything especially low cut (shirt or pants) or too short (skirt). Make sure your hair and fingernails are well groomed. Wear moderate shoes. Don't wear spike heels, platforms, flip flops, or your favorite pair of old ratty sneakers.

• What to Bring to Apply for Jobs In Person

When you apply for jobs, bring a copy of the sample job application you downloaded complete with all your personal information, employment and education history. You'll need to know:

• Schools and dates attended.
• Names and addresses of previous employers, if you have worked before.
• Dates of employment for each employer.
• A list of three references.
• Your resume if you have one.
• Your schedule - know what days and hours you are available to work.

Also bring a notepad to keep track of where you have applied, a pen to complete job applications, and, if you have one, a nice portfolio to hold all your job application materials.

• Be Prepared to Complete a Job Application

When you apply for a job in person you may be asked to complete a paper application or you may apply via a hiring kiosk. For example, many retail stores, like Target and WalMart, having hiring kiosks where you complete an electronic version of a job application, rather than a paper application form.
In either case, carefully read the instructions for applying for employment - before you click the Submit button or turn in your application. The company will regard applications that are submitted correctly and accurately in a much better light than those from candidates who don't follow the instructions.

• Follow Up After Applying for a Job In Person

When you apply for jobs in person, see if you can get a business card from the store manager or hiring maanger. Then follow up with a thank you note or email message thanking them for considering your application.
If you were able to interview when you applied, say thank you for the interview, as well.

source: jobs.about.com

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