Online job applications are popular with employers because they are easier to manage. Employers can pre-screen applicants by using automated assessments done by applicant tracking system (ATS) software to identify those candidates who best meet qualifications. CREATING A PERSONAL DATA RECORD Several strategies can help shorten the time required to complete applications. Once you have the basic information collected, such as position titles, dates of employment, and education information you can consistently and quickly fill out the majority of what is asked for on most applications. Start by creating a personal data record (view endnotes to this chapter for a template you can use). This will help you to organize your information in an electronic or paper file. So, what information do you need for most applications? Start with your contact information, including address, phone number and professional-looking email address. Next, collect all the employment information that you can access. Individual employment opportunities may require more or less employment history to be listed. If you have everything ready, you will be prepared to go back as far needed to show the relevant skills/qualifications required. List the name of the company, the address and who your managers were in each of those positions as well as their contact information, if possible. You will also need the month and year you started working at each company, when you left employment and the reason(s) for your departure(s). You should also write a brief description of the duties you performed for each of your past positions because most applications also ask for that information.
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