• Use an updated resume to keep the facts in front of you when completing an application form.
• Be thorough, carefully read and answer all questions.  If a question is not applicable, mark n/a.
• When a professional reference is requested give the name of a person who can give an evaluation of your work performance.  If, you are asked to give a character reference, you may, for example, give the name of your minister, priest, someone in a community based organization, etc.
• Before listing a person as a professional or character reference, ask them for permission and keep them informed about jobs for which you have applied.
• Explain any gaps in your employment,.  Such gaps may be a personal choice or at times when you were furthering your education.
• If you have been out of employment for a substantial time period, don't hesitate to explain the reason, and you might add a list of volunteer positions you have held.
• Read the requirements and qualifications posted for the job and try to highlight your skills, work history, etc. that supports the job requirements. 
• Check spelling and keep a copy of the application whenever possible.

Check out the following links for further information and tips for completing an employment application:

Guide to Successfully Completing a Job Application
WORKSMART! Tips for Success

How to Fill Out an Online Job Application

Ways to Promote Yourself

    We believe that no one can promote you like you can promote yourself.  Some years ago at a state x-ray society meeting I was introduced to a mammographer.  After initial introductions, the mammographer offered me her business card.  She did not possess any extraordinary educational degrees or titles. Her business card simply listed her name, Jane Doe, RT (R)(M) mammographer, telephone numbers, email address, and a mailing address.  I was immediatly impressed that "Jane" had the personal initiative to promote herself with a business card.  Other such encounters with innovative self-promoting radiographers have helped to develop the following list:

• Purchase unique business cards and give them out to people you meet.   We frequently meet people who may be a great contact for  networking activities related to a job search.
• Become part of the professional community.  Join your local, state, and national radiologic technology societies and attend the meetings.
• Volunteer to be a mentor for a student enrolled in an imaging program.
• Contact local school administrators and offer to talk to students about the imaging profession.
• Participate in local community health fairs.
• Write an article about current imaging topics for your local community newspaper or for a professional magazine or journal.
• Contact local middle and high schools and offer to be a guest speaker for a health careers program .
• Get out there and shine as an imaging professional.

Check out the following links and gain new insights into how to promote yourself:

Self-Promotion at Work

5 Ways to be a Better Self Promotor

The Art of Shameless Self-Promotion