Target Selection and Task Analysis:

At this point, the student should have successfully developed a resume, obtained and organized relevant information, and explored the processes of locating applications. There are a number of graphic organizers and visual cues included in previous intervention topics that will support the process of completing the online or paper-based application form.

Here is a general framework to support completion of the job application form:

1. Concretely define and explain the purpose of a job application in terms that the student will understand.

2. Obtain and organize information for the application sections using a structured visual support on which this information can be stored for repeated reference:

Personal: Name, date of birth, social security number, address, phone, email, etc.
Availability: Days and hours the individual is able to work.
Employment/Volunteer History: Previous employers & contact information, job titles & responsibilities, dates of employment, etc.
Education History: High school and secondary education locations, diploma/degrees/certificates earned.
References: Names, phone numbers, addresses, relationship to applicant

3. Practice filling in application sections described above (not for submission necessarily, just practice). Practice completing paper-based forms, as well as online forms if possible. During practice sessions, be sure to emphasize and rehearse aspects that are unique to the online application process and to the paper-based process:

Online forms:

You will need an email address.
You will need to create a login and password. WRITE IT DOWN and keep it in a safe place (wallet).
Schedule at least one hour (you may not be able to save midway!).
If using a laptop or tablet, be sure the battery is charged fully or that you are near a power source. If the computer shuts down, you may have to restart the application.
“Required” or “Mandatory” fields must be completed. You won’t be able to move on unless you complete those.
Do NOT use the browser buttons (e.g. the back, forward, home, or refresh buttons found at the top of the screen) because you might lose your work.
Use ONLY the buttons on the actual application webpage. Usually includes arrows or text for “Back,” “Next,” “Save & Exit,” “Save & Continue,” and “Submit.”
Many online applications will request your resume in one of two ways: “Upload” or “Attach”
Be sure to click “send” or “submit” application
Look for a confirmation email within 1-4 days

Paper-based forms:

Complete in a quiet setting (at home, library).
Use black or blue ink only.
Write neatly and take your time.
Proofread.
Ask someone else to proofread too.
Submit via mail or in-person.

4. Practice responding to questions about compensation.

Concretely define differences between hourly rate versus salary.
Identify a standard, “safe” response to use when pay is not clearly indicated (e.g. “negotiable”).

5. Practice responding to questions about criminal background checks, drug screenings, etc. Concretely describe what happens during such screenings. Emphasize the “why” behind such required elements.

6. Practice responding to short answer questions.

7. Practice responding to questions about disability (e.g. “Can you perform the essential duties of the position, with or without reasonable accommodations?” “Do you require accommodation of a disability in order to perform the essential functions of the job, as addressed in the ADA of 1990?”).