How To Get an Application For Employment

To get an application for employment, follow the steps outlined by the hiring employer. You may be required to download an application from a company website or walk into a store to pick up a hard copy application. Each employer has a preferred hiring process.

1. Contact the employer to become familiar with the hiring process.  Getting in touch may mean calling a company, walking into a store or visiting a company's website.  In all cases, you must follow directions carefully.  For example, if an employer advertises a job and specifically asks to email for an application rather than call, then calling the employer will send the message that you cannot follow directions.


2. Download an application.  Many employers post job openings on their websites and you download an application.  Visit the appropriate link and print out the application. You may be given an address to which to mail the application. Or, you may be asked to enter your information and submit it directly online.   


3. Send an email to the employer.  Some job postings ask that you submit a cover letter and a resume to apply for a job.  A formal application form may not exist in these cases.  Such employers typically sort through many emails and respond only to a small group of applicants. 


4. Walk into a store or restaurant for an application.  Most retail stores, restaurants and cafes expect that you walk in and speak to a manager to pick up an application. In these cases, dress appropriately for the visit and be prepared to show interest in the job. Some managers ask that you fill out the application on the spot to be followed by an immediate interview, so bring along a pen and important information for the application.