The Job Application Process Explained
The process of applying for jobs will not be consistent across all industries. In this article, we want to shed some light and provide information on what a typical job application process entails so you have a general idea of the phases before you head into the interview room.
Phase 1: Putting In Your Application
Most of the time, the job application process starts on a company's website. The user registers and then begins filling out personal information in order to fill out their profile, which is sent to potential employers. From there, the applicant must make sure they complete all of their questions and upload any necessary documents (like resumes).
Some companies might ask the job-seeker to fill out an application form over the phone. This can be done either by calling a specific number or by filling out details on their website.
Either way, this step is very important because it provides information about yourself that will help solve any potential issues concerning your application/interview later on in the process. It also lets you know if you are qualified for the job in the first place before sending in your resume to begin round two of your job search.
Phase 2: Job Matching and Application Review
After submitting your completed application, it's time to start round two – matching by the hiring company to skills offered by all job seekers who submitted their applications. Depending on how thorough you were when filling out your application, you may have to wait a few days to be contacted by the company.
The company reviews your application and decides if you are qualified to interview for the job. If you make it, you will receive an email regarding the interview process with instructions on how to set up your interview time. If you're rejected at this stage, there are various reasons why; the most common are that the company has too many applicants that day, or that you did not match their job requirements. Your application might be considered in an "in-between" state until it's fully reviewed, so make sure you complete all forms and documents for each step in the process. Do be patient as this part of the job search can take a while when there is a high volume of applicants.
Phase 3: Communication and Interviews Process
After receiving an initial email, you may be required to provide additional information about yourself or take tests such as personality, math, English, and other skill-specific tests. Your resume will also be reviewed in great detail.
The next step is your interview!
After registering for an interview time which is conducted either over the phone or in person, many companies give applicants a skills test that they must pass or else they will not be considered for the job position.
This is when you get to sell yourself and show what makes you the best applicant for the job. For example, if you attended a prestigious university, let them know why it's good for your career and what connections and opportunities they may give you in future employment. You are encouraged to research the company and its mission before you go in for the interview.
When selected for the interview process, you will receive an email to inform you of when and where to show up. You will be asked about your work history, including your background/skills from high school/college and previous work experience. You will also have a chance to ask any questions about the position before being interviewed by a supervisor.
Once you get accepted into an open position, you will be required to go through a personality inventory test and possibly a drug/alcohol screening process if it makes sense for that industry.
Then, you will attend an interview and be asked questions about your personality and what you think is the best way to solve the problems of the company. If you pass this, you will be brought in for a final interview with an executive.
After your interview, you may have one more round of testing or may be told that the company would like to meet with you in person. If so, you have to have another interview with them in person before you can get a job offer.
This is the final step if all goes well!
You are hired!
Congratulations on getting this far!